Christmas Valley opens in the Family Park and Zoo

Daily life Arts & Culture

The Workers' Brass Band played gentle Christmas tunes Róbert Reynisson
The Workers' Brass Band plays in a brightly lit carousel in The Valley of Lights in Laugardalur, at the opening of Christmas Valley 2024.

The Christmas spirit was palpable as Christmas Valley in Laugardalur officially opened this evening. Reykjavík Family Park & Zoo staff has spent weeks setting up Christmas lights throughout the park. Walking through the park at dusk and visiting animals is now like a fairy tale. Brave visitors can also meet the Yule Cat.

The formal opening in the Family Park and Zoo was a festive occasion.

Mayor Einar Þorsteinsson delivered a holiday greeting to residents and guests. A figure skating group from the Reykjavík Skating Club performed.

The Workers' Brass Band entertained, and Jóhanna Guðrún sang several songs. Magician Lalli hosted the program. On the way from the entrance to the pond, guests encountered the Barbara quartet and mythical creatures from Brian Pilkington's imagination.

A figure skating group from Reykjavík Skating Club performed on the ice at the opening of Christmas Valley 2024. Darkness, Christmas-decorated tree in the background

A figure skating group from Reykjavík Skating Club performed.

Free evening entry on weekends during Advent

Evening hours continue throughout Advent, open until 8pm Friday to Sunday from November 29 until Christmas. The Christmas Land in Laugardalur project won neighborhood voting last year. "My Neighborhood" invites everyone to visit the Christmas-lit Reykjavík Family Park & Zoo from 5pm to 8pm Friday to Sunday during Advent. Regular opening hours are 10am to 5pm daily, with standard admission fees.

Evening openings feature carousel rides, music, food trucks for hungry guests, and drinks and cozy atmosphere in the café. A family orienteering game is available through the Reykjavík Family Park & Zoo app in mobile app stores. Dog owners with dogs registered in their municipalities are invited to bring their best friends for evening visits.

More photos from the event are on Reykjavík City's Facebook page.

Children roast marshmallows or poke a fire with sticks, fire in a firepit, darkness, opening of Christmas Valley 2024