Is it dark all day in Tromsø in December?

The sun does not rise from 28 November 2026 to 14 January 2027, but it is not pitch black. You get a few hours of blue and pink twilight around midday, roughly 09:30-14:00 around the shortest day.

How cold is Tromsø in December?

December averages 0.3°C by day and -3.9°C at night at the city station. Wind and damp make it feel colder, and inland areas can be 10 degrees colder or more.

Can you see the northern lights in Tromsø in December?

Yes. December has the longest dark hours of the year, so the limit is clouds, not darkness. Plan at least three nights and check the aurora and cloud forecast each afternoon.

Is there a Christmas market in Tromsø?

Yes. Visit Tromsø lists a Christmas market on Stortorget from 20 November 2026 to 3 January 2027, plus smaller markets at Jekta and in Breivikahallen.

Are shops open in Tromsø on Christmas Day?

No. 25 and 26 December are public holidays and most shops are closed. Small grocery shops up to 100 m² and petrol stations may open, and on 24 December shops close by 16:00 at the latest.

Do tours run on Christmas Day in Tromsø?

Some aurora, husky and whale tours do run over Christmas, but schedules vary by operator and sell out early. Check each operator's dates when you book.

Tromsø in December: Polar Night, Weather, Christmas

Tromsø in December: polar night dates, real weather averages, aurora chances, 2026 Christmas markets and concerts, and what is closed over the holidays.