The Icelandic winter is long and dark, so the country’s many festivals play an important part in bringing communities together to have fun and eat well. They range from cool to quirky and most involve food, for the soul as well as the stomach, and here are a few…
Thorrablot, or the Feast of Thorri ( Jan 20 – Feb 18 ) - A midwinter festival that brings Icelandic people (and those lucky enough to be there on holiday or a short break) together to eat, drink and be merry. The traditional fare includes sheep’s heads, shark and local firewater brennivín. A unique experience to be a part of.
Rainbow Reykjavík Winter Pride Festival ( Jan 29 – Feb 1 ) - Icelandic society is progressive and open about sexuality, having elected Jóhanna Sigurðardóttir, the world’s first openly gay head of government in 2009, while same sex marriage and access to adoption is legal. This openness is mirrored in the ever-growing Winter Pride Festival.
Reykjavik Winter Lights Festival ( Feb 6 – 14 ) - A celebration of all things light to make up for the lack of it, this mix of art and cultural projects will shine bright in your memory if you take a weekend break or holiday in the capital in February.
Sónar Reykjavík Music Festival(Feb 12 – 14 ) - An international festival of advanced music and new art media. This is an intimate festival lined up with both international artists and Icelandic bands alike.
Bolludagur - Bun Day ( Feb 16 ) - Arguably one of the greatest ever ideas for a festival, this celebration of buns involves eating as many cream puffs as you want. On a rambler’s holiday? You can always walk it off. On a luxury break? What’s more luxurious than tucking into a tray of these delights?
Bursting Day ( Feb 17 ) - Save some room after Bun Day, because the next day is another feast, this time on foods to bulk you up, such as salted meats and peas, until you are fit to burst. If you are eating in restaurants, try the lamb and pea soup.
Food and Fun Festival ( Feb 25 – Mar 1) - A week of fabulous food sees both international and Icelandic chefs take over restaurants around Reykjavik to come up with the best dishes. The only criteria – all ingredients must be locally-sourced.
