Iceland

Iceland : Public Holidays and Bank Holidays 2025 2026 2027

Public Holidays in Iceland

Iceland's public holidays reflect a rich blend of Christian traditions, national pride, and seasonal celebrations. These days off are observed with various customs including religious services, family gatherings, and cultural events that highlight Icelandic heritage and community spirit.

• New Year's Day

  • Origin/Meaning: Marks the beginning of the new year according to the Gregorian calendar.
  • Date/Observance: January 1st. Celebrations often include fireworks from New Year's Eve continuing into the early hours.

• Maundy Thursday

  • Origin/Meaning: Commemorates the Last Supper of Jesus Christ with his disciples.
  • Date/Observance: Falls on the Thursday before Easter. It is a public holiday with church services and reflection.

• Good Friday

  • Origin/Meaning: Observes the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.
  • Date/Observance: The Friday before Easter Sunday. It is a solemn day with church services.

• Easter Sunday

  • Origin/Meaning: Celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
  • Date/Observance: Falls between March 22 and April 25. Marked by church services and festive family meals.

• Easter Monday

  • Origin/Meaning: The day after Easter Sunday, continuing the celebration of the resurrection.
  • Date/Observance: Public holiday with family activities and relaxation.

• First Day of Summer

  • Origin/Meaning: A unique Icelandic holiday celebrating the arrival of summer.
  • Date/Observance: Observed on the first Thursday after April 18. It includes outdoor events and children’s activities.

• Labor Day

  • Origin/Meaning: Celebrates workers and labor movements.
  • Date/Observance: May 1st. Rallies and speeches are often held.

• Ascension Day

  • Origin/Meaning: Commemorates the ascension of Jesus into heaven.
  • Date/Observance: Falls 40 days after Easter. Marked by church services.

• Whit Sunday (Pentecost)

  • Origin/Meaning: Celebrates the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the apostles.
  • Date/Observance: 50 days after Easter. Observed with church services and family gatherings.

• Whit Monday

  • Origin/Meaning: The day after Whit Sunday.
  • Date/Observance: Public holiday, often spent with family or relaxation.

• National Day

  • Origin/Meaning: Celebrates Iceland's independence from Denmark in 1944.
  • Date/Observance: June 17th. Features parades, speeches, and cultural festivities nationwide.

• Commerce Day

  • Origin/Meaning: Celebrates commerce and industry in Iceland.
  • Date/Observance: The first Monday in August. It is marked by various events supporting business and community.

• Christmas Eve

  • Origin/Meaning: The evening before Christmas, significant in Icelandic Christmas traditions.
  • Date/Observance: December 24th. Marked by family gatherings and the start of Christmas celebrations.

• Christmas Day

  • Origin/Meaning: Celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ.
  • Date/Observance: December 25th. Observed with family feasts and church services.

• Second Day of Christmas

  • Origin/Meaning: Also known as St. Stephen’s Day, continues the Christmas celebration.
  • Date/Observance: December 26th. A public holiday often spent with family.

• New Year's Eve

  • Origin/Meaning: Marks the last day of the year.
  • Date/Observance: December 31st. Celebrated with fireworks, bonfires, and social gatherings leading into New Year's Day.

Official Reference Site

• Government of Iceland - Public Holidays