Iceland — Events
New Year in Reykjavic
Known to some as the ‘party capital of the north’, Reykjavik really lets loose on New Year’s Eve. Icelandic fireworks laws are relaxed for a few days, meaning anyone can set off their own display and the skies are constantly lit up with bright-colored light flowers, against a backdrop of the spectacular Northern Lights. Other than that, you may encounter friendly bonfires where stories are told, songs are sung, and drinks are shared.
Independence Day
Each year through most of the major towns and cities across Iceland, parades and musical celebrations take place to commemorate the date of Iceland attaining independence from Denmark in 1944. The day is a celebration of Icelandic culture, exploring many of the myths and traditions associated with this fascinating land.
The Arctic Open
The Arctic Open Golf Championship is an international event which draws golfers - both amateur and professional - and spectators from various parts of the world. Apart from the magnificent natural scenery surrounding the Akureyri Golf Club, the chief attraction of the tournament is the prospect of teeing off at 10pm thanks to the near-perpetual sunlight of the Icelandic summer. First held in 1986, the Arctic Open celebrated its 20th anniversary in 2006 with a record field.
Reykjavik Jazz Festival
The Reykjavik Jazz Festival is one of the most popular events for jazz enthusiasts, as the city itself appears to be so well-suited to the bustling genre. Local and international acts infiltrate the city for five days, bringing with them a variety of different jazz styles from various eras.
Reykjavík Marathon
This event goes hand-in-hand with the Reykjavik Cultural Night and although international attendance at the marathon is still small, the overall cultural experience is increasing in popularity every year. The marathon has a fantastic festive atmosphere with many spectators encouraging the athletes from the sidelines. It takes place in and around the beautiful city of Reykjavik and the runners get to enjoy the scenic location of the race. Apart from the marathon there is a half-marathon, a six-mile (10km) run, and a two-mile (3km) fun run.
Reykjavík Cultural Night
On Culture Night, the sun never sets on Reykjavik’s celebrations, with music, live performances and exhibitions taking place under a bright summer night sky. Shops and bars stay open later to cater for the thousands who attend. The Reykjavik Marathon is run in the morning and visitors from abroad are treated to a double dose of what Reykjavik has to offer.
Thorrablot
Thorrablot, also known as the Mid-Winter Feast, sees the capital of Reykjavic and her restaurants open up to crowds of thousands, turning out menus surely concocted by the Addams Family’s Lurch, or possibly, the witches from Macbeth. If the vikings have been historically misconstrued as hairy savages who drank too much, this traditional feast might not help this reputation, but it will provide a novel experience to anybody visiting Iceland. The fare includes Hákarl (putrefied shark), Hrútspungur (ram’s scrotum with testicles) and Svið (jellied sheep’s head).
