Christmas in Greenland 2024

One of the most important holidays in the country is celebrated with some peculiar traditions

Dates: December 24–December 25

Most Greenlanders are Christian, and they celebrate Christmas traditionally. Although, there are some unusual things, which you might not experience in other countries. For example, there are no Christmas trees in Greenland because trees almost don't grow there. So the trees for Christmas are imported from other countries, decorated, and put everywhere, including streets. Locals also decorate their houses, the streets, shops, and cafés with glittering ornaments, Christmas stars, lights, and candles to bring a little more coziness to the cold and dark winter days.

Greenland Christmas Traditions

An interesting and noteworthy Greenlandic Christmas tradition is that during this holiday, the men serve food and coffee and look after the women in the household. But other than that, Greenlanders follow the same customs as the other Christians: they sing Christmas carols—the hymn “Guuterput quisinnermiu” (“Our Lord in Heaven”) is the most popular—exchange presents, go to church and gather with their families on Christmas Eve. The cities also light up Christmas trees on the first Sunday of Advent.

However, unlike Europeans or Americans, Greenlanders believe that Santa Claus lives not in Lapland but in Spraglebugten Bay on the western side of Uummannaq Island of Greenland. In fact, they claim that his sleigh is pulled not by reindeer but by dogs.

St. Lucia Parade & Other Customs

Besides the carols, lights, and traditional holiday celebrations, Greenland boasts a St. Lucia parade, which traditionally takes place on December 13th. The event usually takes place at schools, daycares, and other establishments for children. As part of the program, children wear wreaths and hold candles while singing about Saint Lucia, the martyr who devoted her life to God and helping those in need.

Christmas Markets

The island holds holiday markets, where visitors can purchase various Christmas knick-knacks, decor, and last-minute stocking stuffers and enjoy local delicacies and warm drinks. Annual market is traditionally hosted in Nuuk, the capital of Greenland, in the city's town square.