Christmas Garden, or Jolagardurinn, is at Sveinsbaer just outside Akureyri in North Iceland. It is a short drive from Akureyri and it stays open through the year, not only during the Christmas season. That year-round opening is a key part of what sets the place apart from seasonal Christmas shops.
What the Christmas Garden is
Christmas Garden is a Christmas-themed venue near Akureyri, with a focus on festive goods and Icelandic holiday traditions. Visit North Iceland describes it as a place which appeals to all the family. If you want background on the town nearby, read this Akureyri city guide.
The Yule Lads
The Icelandic Yuletide Lads feature at the venue, along with their parents. In Icelandic Christmas celebrations, they have an important role, and that tradition is part of the Christmas focus here.
What is inside
Inside, the shop sells festive items from all parts of the world. It also gives special emphasis to Icelandic Christmas traditions, including smoked lamb legs and decorative leaf bread. Another part of the selection is handwork crafted by artists from all parts of the country.
Visiting outside December
Christmas Garden is open through the year rather than only in the Christmas season. That means it is not limited to a short seasonal window, even though everything centers on Christmas themes and traditions.
Driving there from Akureyri
The venue is just outside Akureyri and reached by a short drive from town. For route planning in North Iceland, you can check driving distances between towns with this driving distance tool.
Comparing North Iceland tours
If you want to compare options in the region, see North Iceland tours. This is a separate comparison page for tours in North Iceland.
