Children Celebrate Öskudagur Across Iceland with Fancy Dress

2026-02-18 - 12:45

Children across Iceland are celebrating Öskudagur (Ash Wednesday) today, taking part in one of the country’s most recognisable late-winter traditions. Around the island, children dress in costume and visit shops, offices and public institutions to sing in exchange for sweets. What's the Story? Öskudagur observed across Iceland today, marking Ash Wednesday Children in costume visiting shops and public institutions to sing in exchange for sweets Tradition follows Bolludagur and Sprengidagur as part of late-winter celebrations before Lent Kids in fancy dress costumes outside of Akureyrarkirkja. Photo: Golli. Iceland Review. Costumes And Song The tradition is widely observed in town centres, particularly in Reykjavík, where groups of pupils move between businesses during the morning and early afternoon. Öskudagur has roots in the Christian calendar but has evolved into a community event centred on children. In earlier times, young people would attach small ash bags, known as öskupokar, to the backs of passers-by. While that custom is now rare, dressing up and performing songs remains central to the day. Schools often incorporate the celebration into their activities, and many businesses prepare by setting aside sweets for visiting groups. The event follows Bolludagur and Sprengidagur, forming part of a three-day period of traditions marking the approach of Lent. Photo: Golli. Iceland Review.