Jólasveinarnir í Baðinu (Yule Lads Bath) is one of Iceland’s quirkiest and most beloved holiday traditions, taking place each December at the geothermal swimming pool in Húsavík. Families gather to watch the mischievous Yule Lads—Iceland’s 13 playful Christmas figures—make their grand entrance by splashing into the warm waters, greeting children, and handing out small gifts. With its mix of folklore, community spirit, and the country’s signature geothermal culture, the event offers a uniquely Icelandic twist on holiday festivities that delights both locals and visitors.
DATES & TIMES
• Main event: Saturday 6 December 2025, 16:00 — the Yule Lads take their only bath of the year at Mývatn Nature Baths. Official Yule Lads site • Visit Mývatn listing.
• Meet the Yule Lads: selected dates in December, typically 11:00–13:00, at Dimmuborgir. Official dates.
• Exact timetable: full daily schedule publishes annually; check the programme page and event calendar. Programme • Overview.
LOCATION
• Bath venue: Mývatn Nature Baths, 660 Mývatn. Open in Google Maps • Nature Baths website.
• Yule Lads’ home: Dimmuborgir lava fields (December meet‑ups). Open in Google Maps • Official site.
TICKETS & ENTRY
• Buy tickets: advance tickets required for bath/meet‑ups; limited slots. Buy tickets.
• Pricing (ref.): previous seasons listed ISK 2,200 for guests aged 6+ for Dimmuborgir meet‑ups; current year pricing is confirmed on the ticket page. Official info.
GOOD TO KNOW
• Christmas market: a local market is usually held the same weekend at Skjólbrekka by Lake Mývatn; times vary by year. Official tourism update.
• Weather & kit: expect sub‑zero windchill; pack hats, gloves, and non‑slip footwear for icy paths.
• Transport: winter driving in North Iceland can be challenging—allow extra time and check conditions before travel. Icelandic Road Admin.
From crowd-savvy timing to charming stays minutes from Mývatn Nature Baths, we’ll design your Yule Lads’ Bath escape—25% off our planning fee with “25 by 25” until 25 December. If Christmas markets (and festive events) are your thing, they’re sparkling across Europe this season; we’ll help you choose the right one (or string a few together) for a magical winter trip. Book a free consult to claim the offer.