Christmas Day 2025
Date: December 25, 2025 (Thursday)
Country: Svalbard & Jan Mayen Public Holidays
Description
Christmas Day in Svalbard and Jan Mayen is a public holiday observed on December 25 each year. It is the same date used across Norway. People mark the day as part of the wider Norwegian holiday calendar.
The day has religious meaning for Christians who celebrate the birth of Jesus. It is also important in a cultural way for many residents, serving as a time to pause regular work and school routines.
As an official holiday, public services and many businesses are closed or operate with limited hours. This allows people to spend time with family and friends and to take part in community life without the normal weekday duties.
Christmas Day is significant because it combines religious, cultural, and social importance. Even in remote places like Svalbard and Jan Mayen, the day helps connect people to national traditions and to each other.
Traditions
In Svalbard people gather in small towns and settlements for cozy Christmas Eve meals. Families cook traditional Norwegian dishes like ribbe, pinnekjøtt or lutefisk, bake ginger cookies and serve rice porridge with a hidden almond. Candles and a decorated tree bring warm light.
Church services, concerts and carol singing are common in Longyearbyen. Community centers host julebord style gatherings and Santa or helpers visit children. People exchange gifts and sing old Norwegian songs to celebrate together.
On Jan Mayen the celebration is quiet and private among the station staff. They share a festive meal, decorate a small tree, sing together and hold a simple ceremony to mark the day with friendship and warmth.
Travel Tips
Many shops, museums and some services in Longyearbyen and Jan Mayen are closed on Christmas Day. Flights and boats may have limited schedules. Bring food, medicine and confirmations. Contact your hotel and check transport timetables before you travel.
Book any guided tours in advance. Dress for extreme cold and polar night. Stay with a guide near glaciers and avoid approaching wildlife. Carry an emergency kit, headlamp and charged phone. Enjoy quiet walks, local hospitality and the northern lights safely and respectfully.