Interesting Festivals in Iceland
Iceland, an island nation located near the Arctic Circle, is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes and unique cultural traditions. If you’re looking for an extraordinary travel experience and want to explore vibrant and culturally rich festivals, here are five Icelandic festivals that you absolutely should not miss:
1. Icelandic National Day (Þjóðhátíðardagurinn)
Celebrated every year on June 17th, Icelandic National Day marks the country’s independence from Denmark and commemorates the birth of national hero Jón Sigurðsson. Parades, concerts, and family activities are held in the capital, Reykjavik, and across the country, with cities decorated in the colors of the Icelandic flag. On this day, Icelanders express their pride and patriotism, creating a warm and joyful atmosphere.
2. Westfjords Music Festival (Vestfirðir Tónlistarhátíð)
The Westfjords Music Festival is a springtime musical event held in the picturesque town of Ísafjörður. This festival brings together musicians from Iceland and around the world, performing various genres of music, from folk to jazz, rock to classical. During the festival, you can enjoy the beauty of music against the backdrop of Iceland’s magnificent natural scenery.
3. Reykjavik Culture Night (Menningarnótt)
Every August, Reykjavik Culture Night marks the beginning of Iceland’s arts and culture season. On this day, the entire city transforms into an open-air art venue, offering free museum admissions, street art performances, live music, and various cultural activities. The night culminates in a spectacular fireworks display, providing the perfect conclusion to the festival.
4. Jónsmessa Midsummer Night
Also known as St. John’s Day, Jónsmessa is a traditional festival celebrated on June 24th, marking the summer solstice. It is believed that this night is the most magical of the year, and people jump over bonfires for good luck and camp outdoors to enjoy the midnight sun of summer. This is an excellent opportunity to experience Icelandic tradition and connect with nature.
5. Icelandic Horse Festival (Landsmót hestamanna)
In Iceland, horses are more than just a means of transportation; they are a significant part of the culture. The Icelandic Horse Festival, usually held in the summer, celebrates this unique breed. The festival includes equestrian shows, speed and skill competitions, and demonstrations of the Icelandic horse’s distinctive “tölt” gait. It’s a fantastic event for families to explore Icelandic horse culture and rural life.
Each of these festivals is filled with Iceland's unique charm and cultural atmosphere. Whether you’re a music lover, a nature explorer, or a cultural enthusiast, Iceland’s festivals will make your journey unforgettable.
For those planning to visit these exciting Icelandic festivals, especially if your travel includes France, don’t forget to schedule your France visa appointment in advance. Our experienced Schengen visa agents can assist you with your France Schengen visa appointment and guide you through the Schengen visa application process. Whether you need a Schengen visa from the UK or elsewhere, we can help you apply for a Schengen visa and ensure a smooth Schengen visa appointment experience.
