Saturday, January 10, 2009

New Years Eve in Reykjavík Iceland

New Years Eve in Reykjavík Iceland started with a bonfire. As we understand about 10 throughout the city where families gathered at 8 PM to sing and shoot off fireworks. I was sure we were going to get hit with something as they were going off in the midst of the crowd and kids were carrying sparklers that were over 2 feet long. The Elders told us last year someone let off a rocket that shot right through the crowd - I was sure we were going to see the same. About 10 PM the real fireworks started and they lasted way past midnight. We were on the second story of a house up on a hill and could see all of Rejkjavík and the adjoining cities and it was one mass of fireworks. Remember these are not commercially sponsored fireworks but individuals shooting off their own purchases. Some families had to have spent thousands of dollars on their fireworks. The man we were with said the medium ones were costing $50 -60 each and we saw one family shoot off at least 20-30 from their backyard just while we were at the bonfire and then more and bigger at midnight.

3 comments:

Grandma Chubby said...

What a wonderful journal this is! We've only been home a little over 6 months but you are making us miss the mission even more! This work is so great and we are so happy for you and what you are doing. They are lucky to have you there! Love, John and Lenore

H. Wimmer said...

That is amazing to watch and I can't believe that anyone can set off fireworks...

Darron said...

The fireworks in the 80's were never so grand. Things have changed. I am glad you enjoyed the end of the year.