Boxing Day in Iceland
In Iceland, Boxing Day is December 26 and is also known as the Second Day of Christmas, or annar dagur jóla. It is a public holiday, with work and pay arrangements shaped by Icelandic labour rules and collective agreements.[1][2]
Meaning and legal status
Iceland’s law on holidays of the National Church includes the Second Day of Christmas among the religious holidays it names. The Icelandic labour guidance also lists Boxing Day as a public holiday.[1][2]
For workers hired for daytime work, ASÍ says work is not required on public holidays unless the worker agrees. When a public holiday falls on a weekday, eligible workers receive normal daytime pay for eight hours; working on a public holiday is paid at overtime rates in addition to that pay. Individual entitlements can depend on employment terms and the applicable agreement.[1]
ASÍ describes agreement-based transfers for two Thursday holidays: Ascension Day and the First Day of Summer.[3]
How people mark the day
Christmas is described as an important family celebration for most people in Iceland. The country’s immigrant information guide says that many people host or attend a Christmas party on Boxing Day. It does not identify a single nationwide meal or custom specific to the day.[4]
What to expect as a visitor
Opening hours vary. A regional tourism information site says that businesses, banks and most stores close on public holidays, while some shops and restaurants remain open for visitors and many tour companies operate. Check directly with any place you plan to visit.[5]
The holiday does not itself mean every workplace or service follows identical hours. Icelandic labour guidance sets out workers’ holiday rights, while visitor-facing businesses may choose to open; check transport times before you travel.[1][5]
Boxing Day in Iceland: frequently asked questions
When is Boxing Day in Iceland?
Is Boxing Day a public holiday in Iceland?
Do workers get the day off?
ASÍ says daytime workers are not required to work on public holidays unless they agree to do so. Pay rules apply, and individual terms may depend on the relevant employment agreement.[1]
Are shops and services open?
Many businesses, banks and stores close, but some visitor-facing shops, restaurants and tour companies may operate. Check the opening hours of specific places and transport services.[5]
Sources and references
Sources used for Boxing Day in Iceland:
- Public holidays- Alþýðusamband Íslands (ASÍ)
- 32/1997: Lög um frið vegna helgihalds- Alþingi
- Transfer of public holidays- Alþýðusamband Íslands (ASÍ)
- Traditions and Feasts – Christmas and New Year- Landneminn
- Public holidays- Visit Vatnajökull