- Capital of Contrasts

Tucked away on the edge of the Arctic Circle, the world’s northernmost capital offers a surprising variety of cultural and social happenings in addition to an abundance of first-class restaurants, clubs and bars. There are numerous museums and galleries throughout the city, with presentations ranging from Viking relics to modern art exhibitions, and being one of Europe’s smallest capitals, downtown Reykjavík is safe and easy to traverse. As with the country in general, the city of Reykjavík is one of contrasts, with charming historical buildings of stone and wood mingling with imaginative modern architecture. The vast majority of restaurants, clubs, cafés and bars in Reykjavík are located on or around the main shopping street Laugavegur, so no one has to search far to find a venue to his or her taste. This density gives the Reykjavík nightlife a unique feel, and its reputation for liveliness is well deserved—especially during the seemingly endless summer nights.

On the following page is a list containing some of the festivities in the city, enabling you to combine your vacation with the happening you find most appealing. Please note that the dates may change, so if you are building your vacation around a specific festivity, we recommend contacting Iceland Visitor first—we are more than happy to help.

For more information about Reykjavik visit the website, www.icelandguest.com.

FESTIVIES IN REYKJAVÍK

Thorri Feast ‘Þorrablót’: January – February 2009
At the end of January, the festivities of traditional Icelandic food, hymns singing and dancing are on-going. Why not try out some of the traditional food of the Vikings such as smoked lamb, singed sheep heads, pickled ram’s testicles, rye bread steamed in hot springs and the Icelandic schnapps ‘Brennivín’? 

Winter Lights Festival: 12 – 14 February 2009
The Icelandic winter celebration of increasing light, after a long period of darkness, fills the city with added life as all major cultural institutions, galleries, shops and artists join in on the fun. Restaurants join in with special ‘Food and Fun’ festivities, highlighting pure Icelandic ingredients including lamb and fish, prepared by acclaimed chefs from around the globe. ‘Gourmet Dinner Nights’ include signature dishes and special menus at some of the finest restaurants in Reykjavík.

Reykjavík Blues Festival: April 2009 TBA
The annual Reykjavík Blues Festival offers a colourful program of blues, performed by Icelandic and international artists.  www.blues.is/english

Easter: 9 – 13 April 2009
Some of the highlights of the musical year are introduced with classical programs. The Easter season is a time for relaxation, smoked lamb and lots of chocolate! This is also usually the best season for skiing in the mountains surrounding Reykjavík. 

Reykjavík Arts Festival: May 2009 TBA
This annual event starts 10 May, giving every arts enthusiast the chance to enjoy a great variety of delicacies of international theatre, art, dance and musical events. www.artfest.is   

Independence Day: 17 June 2009
Iceland declared independence from Denmark on 17 June 1944, the birthday of Jón Sigurðsson. This day is commemorated all around Iceland with parades, street theatre and music, shows and dances.

Summer Solstice Festival: 21 June 2009
This ancient Solstice Festival from the times of the Vikings is celebrated at the end of June, in the midnight sun. This longest day of the year celebrates the ancient Viking age with gatherings, craft market, song, dance, midnight walks and of course, food and drink. 

Gay Pride Festival:  6 – 9 August 2009
This weekend fills the city centre with colours, parties, parades and entertainment as thousands of people join the weekend festivities with the gay community in Reykjavík.  www.gaypride.is

Reykjavík Culture Night: 22 August 2009
The Culture Night is filled with life, events, musical performances and culture. Shops, bars, nightclubs, churches and galleries extend their open hours well into the night, while a number of exhibitions and happenings make downtown Reykjavík a hotbed of activities. 

Reykjavík Marathon: 22 August 2009
Thousand of participants from all over the world visit Iceland each year for the annual Reykjavík Marathon. The race options include a half marathon, fun run (7 km) and marathon proper. www.marathon.is

Reykjavík Jazz Festival: September 2009 TBA
Over a period of five days, many acclaimed Icelandic and international Jazz musicians perform all over Reykjavík city. The Jazz Festival has been held annually since 1991, growing in size and stature with each year.

Kvikmyndahátíð - Fim Festival: TBA

Iceland Airwaves Concert: TBA

Viking Festival - Fjörukráin: TBA