Christmas Eve 2025
Date: December 24, 2025 (Wednesday)
Country: Svalbard & Jan Mayen Public Holidays
Description
Christmas Eve in Svalbard and Jan Mayen is the evening of December 24. It marks the start of the main Christmas celebration for people who follow Norwegian customs. The date is the same across Norway.
The holiday means a time to pause and be with family. It is also a religious day for many, celebrating the birth of Jesus. For others it is a quiet, reflective time to enjoy company and warmth.
In these northern places the timing feels special because December brings long nights and deep winter. The darkness makes the evening feel cozy and important. It stands out on the calendar as the moment when the holiday season becomes most personal and bright in spirit.
Christmas Eve is significant because it connects people to faith, family, and the long history of Christmas in Norway. Even in remote communities it marks a grouping of one whole day that feels different from other days of the year.
Traditions
On Svalbard people keep cozy indoor gatherings. Families and the small community in Longyearbyen meet for church services, singing carols and candle lighting. Children look out for a Santa visit and people exchange small gifts and warm wishes.
Food is important. Houses and community halls serve traditional Norwegian dishes like ribbe or pinnekjøtt, plus rice porridge with an almond for luck. People enjoy cakes, cookies and hot drinks while talking late into the evening to stay warm and cheerful.
On Jan Mayen the few residents celebrate together at the station. They hold a shared festive meal, sing, play music and sometimes put up a small tree. Celebrations are simple, close knit and focused on company and comfort.
Travel Tips
Many shops, restaurants and public offices in Svalbard close early on Christmas Eve. Flights and ferries may have limited schedules. Book transport, tours and accommodation well ahead. Carry extra warm layers and spare batteries because cold drains devices fast.
Jan Mayen is not open for casual visitors. Only staffed stations have access and they run on tight schedules. Use locally guided tours in Svalbard, tell someone your plan, keep distance from wildlife, and carry emergency contact details and a satellite or PLB device.