Atlantic Road Events - January 2027
January is deep winter on the coast: short days, snow, and a road that can be spectacular or simply closed by weather. There are no events to speak of, and anyone who tells you otherwise is selling something. This is the month for the northern lights and for having the place to yourself, provided you are equipped and experienced.
Season and fixtures
New Year's Day
Friday 1 January 2027
Public holiday; almost everything in the towns is shut and the coastal road is quiet.
Sources: Norway calendar, Visit Tromso Christmas guide
Deep-winter driving season
Through January 2027
Winter tyres remain compulsory. Some rest areas are unserviced, ferries can be affected, and the road may close temporarily in a storm. Check the official road authority before travelling and build in a spare day.
Sources: Atlantic Road seasonal guide, Norway calendar
Northern lights on clear nights
Clear nights through January (and to late March)
The aurora season runs to late March, and January's long nights give some of the best odds. It is a natural phenomenon, not a scheduled event; see our winter guide and photography guide.
Sources: Visit Tromso northern-lights guidance, Atlantic Road seasonal guide