August in Reykjavík – Festivals, Pride and Cultural Fun

A colorful summer meadow with purple and white wildflowers in the foreground, and the Seljalandsfoss waterfall cascading down a green cliff in the background under soft sunlight.

01/08/2025 10:08

August is one of the most exciting months in Reykjavík. The city comes alive with music, color and celebration. Whether you're into live concerts, outdoor parades, marathons, or jazz, there’s something for everyone.

Verslunarmannahelgi: A Weekend of Festivals

August 1–4

Iceland’s biggest summer festival weekend is upon us. Locals head out for one last camping trip filled with bonfires, music and fireworks.

Don’t want to leave town? No worries! Innipúkinn Festival offers three days of live indoor concerts in downtown Reykjavík. Expect performances from Mugison, Bríet, SiGRÚN and many more. For more info click here.

Want to know more about the merchant weekend, check out our blog here.

Reykjavík Pride Week

August 5–10

Reykjavík Pride is one of Iceland’s largest annual events. What started in 1999 is now a weeklong celebration of LGBTQ+ life and love. Over 100,000 guests attend every year.

Here’s what’s happening during Pride week at Reykjavik Pride and Center Hotels:

• Opening Ceremony (Aug 5) - the Iceland Parliament Hotel To get ticket click here.

• Queer Pub Quiz & Cocktails (Aug 6) - SKÝ Lounge & Bar at Center Hotels Arnarhvoll. To view event click here.

• Charity Drag Bingo (Aug 7) - Center Hotels Plaza, hosted by the fabulous Michy To view event click here.

• Live Thursday Pride Edition (Aug 7) - Jörgensen Kitchen & Bar at Miðgarður by Center Hotels. To view event click here.

• Queeraoke (Aug 8) - SKÝ Lounge & Bar at Center Hotels Arnarhvoll. A karaoke night with pride vibes. To view event click here.

• Reykjavík Pride Parade (Aug 9) – the main event! March starts at 2 PM from Hallgrímskirkja Center Hotels bars will also feature a special Pride cocktail created by Grétar Matthíasson, Iceland’s multiple award winning cocktail champion. For more Reykjavik Pride info click here.

Reykjavík Marathon

August 23

The Íslandsbanki Reykjavík Marathon is one of the biggest sports events of the year. Whether you’re running a full marathon, joining the 3K Fun Run, or cheering from the sidelines, the energy is contagious. The course winds through the city and along the coastline, offering beautiful views and a fun, festive atmosphere.

This year, we at Center Hotels are proud to be part of the race. Our team is running for a good cause – supporting "Gleym mér ei", a charity for parents who experience pregnancy or infant loss.

Center Hotels covers half of the registration fee for our staff runners and will match all donations raised by the team. It’s our way of supporting both our colleagues and a deeply meaningful cause.

You can follow our progress and see how much we’ve raised so far on our campaign page here.

For more info on the Reykjavik Marathon click here.

Menningarnótt – Reykjavík Culture Night

August 23

One of the city’s biggest annual celebrations. Culture Night fills Reykjavík with art, music and free events. Museums, gardens, and squares host pop-up performances all day. The night ends with fireworks by the harbor. You’re invited – just like the slogan says: “Come on in!”

For more info on Menningarnótt click here.

Reykjavík Jazz Festival

August 26–31

Enjoy world-class jazz in one of the world’s smallest capitals. This long-running music festival features Icelandic talent and global jazz stars. You’ll hear everything from gospel to avant-garde. Concerts take place all over the city in unique venues.

For more info on the Reykjavik Jazz Festival click here.

Guide to Reykjavík in December: Things To Do, Winter Vibes & Weather

10/11/2025

Experience Reykjavík in December, when the city sparkles with Christmas lights and festive cheer. From northern lights and cozy hot springs to holiday markets and New Year’s fireworks, Iceland’s capital transforms into a true winter wonderland. Discover the best things to do, what to expect from the weather, and how to make the most of your December visit.

What to Know if You Spend Christmas in Reykjavík

04/11/2025

Spending Christmas in Reykjavík feels like stepping into a winter fairytale. The city glows with festive lights, echoes with choir music, and comes alive with Icelandic traditions, from the mischievous Yule Lads to cozy Christmas markets. Whether you’re skating at Ingólfstorg, savoring a jólahlaðborð buffet, or watching the northern lights dance above snow-covered rooftops, Reykjavík offers a Christmas experience unlike anywhere else in the world.

Things to Do in Reykjavik in November

29/10/2025

November in Reykjavik is cozy, creative, and full of life. From music and dance festivals to winter tours and the chance to see the northern lights, the city offers plenty to enjoy during the darker months. Discover cultural highlights, local events, and the magical side of Icelandic winter.

Reykjavík in November: Weather, Events & Vibe

24/10/2025

November in Reykjavík is a season of contrasts, dark skies, glowing lights, and a city full of warmth and creativity. From the chance to see the northern lights to the buzz of Iceland Airwaves, this month brings a cosy yet exciting energy to Iceland’s capital. Discover what to expect from the weather, where to stay, and how to make the most of Reykjavík’s winter charm.

Can You See the Northern Lights in Reykjavík?

23/10/2025

Yes, you can see the northern lights from Reykjavík if the conditions are right. Discover the best times, viewing spots, and simple tips to catch this magical natural display, even within the city lights. From hilltop views at Perlan to the peaceful shores of Grótta Lighthouse, Reykjavík offers plenty of ways to witness the aurora dance across Iceland’s winter skies.