Boxing Day 2025
Date: December 26, 2025 (Friday)
Country: Iceland Public Holidays
Description
Boxing Day in Iceland falls on December 26. Locals usually call it Annar í jólum or the Second Day of Christmas. It is the day after Christmas and is a public holiday across the country.
The day means a continued pause from work and school. It is part of the official Christmas period and many people spend it quietly with family or resting at home.
Boxing Day has historical roots in Christian calendars and marks the second day of the Christmas celebration. For Icelanders it is one of the main winter holidays that shape the end of the year.
The holiday is significant because it gives people extra time to reflect and be with loved ones. It also helps communities keep a calm, festive mood that stretches beyond December 25.
Traditions
Families keep celebrating together on December 26. Relatives visit and children play with new toys. People relax at home, play board games, sing, or go outside for sledding, skiing, or a long walk in the snowy landscape.
Food stays important. People eat leftovers from Christmas meals, especially hangikjöt smoked lamb with potatoes and peas. Laufabrauð thin crispy bread and sweet pastries like kleinur often appear again. Hot cocoa and strong coffee help warm everyone up.
Some families attend church services, while others enjoy quiet time and reading. Public pools and community centers often fill with families. Watching sports on TV and small acts of neighborly kindness are common ways Icelanders spend the day.
Travel Tips
Many shops, banks, and some museums close or have shorter hours on Boxing Day. Plan ahead by checking opening times online. Expect crowded buses, roads, and tourist sites in Reykjavik. Book taxis and tours early to avoid waits.
Enjoy calm outdoor activities like walking coastal trails or visiting geothermal pools. Respect local rules, keep safe distances on icy paths, and wear warm, waterproof clothes. Bring snacks and water since small stores may be shut. Join organized tours to support local guides and have a meaningful experience.