Christmas in Longyearbyen
Text: Benedicte Klyve
December in Svalbard is an evocative time when the Arctic silence arrives in line with the sun’s absence. We combine the classic Christmas atmosphere with memorable nature-based experiences.
An Arctic Christmas
Celebrate Christmas in Svalbard or come on a pre-Christmas visit to experience the authentic Christmas atmosphere. At this time of the year, the sun is so far below the horizon that the only sources of light are the moon, the stars, the Northern Lights and the Christmas lights. The pedestrian streets are decorated with Christmas lights. The Christmas tree on the square is lit on the first Sunday of Advent and the snow-capped peaks light up the Polar Night.
Many of Longyearbyen’s permanent residents regard this as their favourite time of the year. They can relax, enjoy the Polar Night and attend all the evocative events on offer.
Christmas, true to tradition
Finally, it’s time for the festive season of Advent. The first Sunday of Advent is the day when the streets are buzzing with activity and everyone gets into the Christmas spirit. The darkened streets are lit by hundreds of people with flaming torches. The first stop is Santa’s letterbox near Mine 2, which is lit up by a small lamp. When you are so far north, only 1,300 km from the North Pole, you can be sure that your wish will reach Santa Claus first.
Mulled wine and gingerbread are served to all at the square in the centre of Longyearbyen, as people sing traditional Christmas carols accompanied by the local orchestra. The lights on the Christmas tree are switched on, as are the street decorations. Christmas has returned to Longyearbyen.
Christmas presents at tax-free prices
Did you know that Svalbard is a VAT-free zone? Take a little piece of Svalbard home with you and put it under the Christmas tree for someone you love. Here in Longyearbyen, you will find sports shops, a chocolatier selling polar bear and Northern Lights chocolates, a jewellery shop, souvenir shops, a wine monopoly, and galleries.
In early December, a Christmas fair is held at Longyearbyen’s cultural centre and a Christmas market at Galleri Svalbard with elements from the local arts and crafts centre. Many exciting exhibitors sell photographs, food, Christmas cakes, arts, and crafts.
Fill your wish list with nature-based experiences
The wilderness is right on our doorstep, making Longyearbyen the perfect base for nature-based experiences. Even though it’s dark around the clock, you will be amazed by how much of the nature you can see. On clear days, the Northern Lights often dance in the sky above town and offer nature’s mightiest experiences. To increase your chances of seeing the Northern Lights, leave the artificial light of the town behind and head on an excursion into the wilderness. Join a dog sledding, ice cave or snowmobiling trip to really experience what the Polar Night can offer. We can promise you some memorable moments.
You will find traditional Christmas events here, that may be combined with the authentic pre-Christmas atmosphere in the Arctic wilderness.