What is the name of the traditional New Year's Eve bonfire celebration in Iceland?

Áramótabrennur is the Icelandic name for traditional New Year's Eve bonfires.

The word áramótabrennur translates roughly as “New Year's bonfires.” Communities across Iceland light these fires on December 31, creating gathering places where people meet before or around midnight. The bonfires are part of a broader Icelandic New Year's season that combines community events, fireworks, humor, and seasonal customs.

Icelanders also have a notable tradition of buying and setting off large quantities of fireworks. Fireworks are sold by rescue organizations, and proceeds help support their work. This gives the holiday a distinctive connection between celebration and fundraising, although safety rules and local restrictions apply.

Bonfires are not the same as the New Year's Eve television comedy program Áramótaskaupið. That annual satirical broadcast is another famous Icelandic custom, and the similar names can cause confusion. The bonfire term refers specifically to outdoor fires, while Áramótaskaupið is a broadcast program. Iceland's capital Reykjavík and many other towns host public celebrations, but the custom is national rather than limited to one city.