This episode is part of my Folklore Friday series where I am sharing a folklore story every Friday in 2024.

When a plague ravaged Iceland in the 15th century, eighteen sorcerers formed a desperate alliance, fleeing to the remote Vestmannaeyjar Islands (Westman Islands) to escape its deadly grip. They hoped to wait out the plague, but as it finally began to subside, they grew curious. Did anyone still live on the mainland?

They chose one among them, neither the strongest nor the weakest, to go ashore and find out. But they warned him—if he didn’t return by Christmas, they would send a deadly zombie to kill him.

The man wandered through the desolate land, finding only abandoned farms and scattered corpses. Hope seemed lost until, at last, he came upon a closed farmhouse. When he knocked, a beautiful young woman answered.

Overcome with relief, she embraced him, believing she was the last living soul. She pleaded with him to stay, and though he was bound by his promise to return, her loneliness moved him. He stayed with her, but as Christmas approached, he knew he had to leave.

On Christmas Eve, as he prepared to go, the woman begged him to stay, warning that his journey back would be futile. Time was short, and he realized he wouldn’t make it. Resigned to his fate, he decided to wait for death by her side.

As the night deepened, the man grew sleepy while the woman remained watchful. She kept waking him, asking where the zombie was. But as it drew nearer, his sleep became more profound. Finally, he announced that the zombie had reached the farm and then fell into an unbreakable slumber.

The woman, however, was ready. As a rust-brown vapor, the zombie seeped into the farmhouse and took human form. When it demanded she move so it could reach its target, she challenged it instead. “Show me how big you can become,” she said. The zombie expanded until it filled the room. Then she asked, “Now, how small can you get?”

The zombie boasted it could shrink to a fly, and as it did, she quickly trapped it in a sheep’s leg bone. When she woke the man, he was astonished to be alive. The woman revealed her cunning trap, mocking the supposed power of the island wizards. They celebrated together, but soon, the man grew anxious again. The wizards, he feared, would create an even stronger zombie to finish him off by New Year’s Eve.

On the eve of the new year, the woman led him to a hidden vault beneath a bush. Inside, they found a terrifying figure—her foster father—lying in a dark chamber lit only by a candle in a skull.

After hearing their tale, the foster father took the sheep’s leg, freed the trapped zombie, and ordered it to devour all the wizards’ zombies. The zombie-turned-fly obeyed, growing immense and consuming every undead creature sent from the islands.

With the threat vanquished, the man and the woman returned to her farm. They fell in love, stayed together, and their descendants multiplied, filling the earth with life once more.

The Black Death, which devastated much of Europe in the 14th century, somehow spared Iceland. The plague never became a constant presence on the island, unlike in neighboring countries. However, Iceland wasn’t entirely untouched by this deadly disease.

In the 15th century, two severe plague epidemics did hit the country. The first outbreak arrived in 1402 and caused widespread devastation until early spring 1404. Nearly a century later, the second epidemic struck during the winter of 1494-95, once again leaving its mark on Iceland’s history.

Uppvakningur – zombie

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Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta og sjáumst fjótlega.

Recently a horrific accident in an ice cave resulted in a tragedy that has rocked the Icelandic tourism industry. After international news sources picked up this incident, many potential visitors have expressed worry about whether they should ever go into an ice cave.

I’m going to share what has been reported in Iceland, action being taken to prevent potential ice cave tragedies, and when it is safest to go on an ice cave tour.

Before I dive in though, I would like to extend my deepest condolences to the family of the person who lost their life.

On Sunday, August 26th, 2024 rescue crews in Southeast Iceland searched for two missing tourists after an ice cave partially collapsed on the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier. The collapse occurred while a group of tourists was inside the cave. One tourist, a US national, was pronounced dead at the scene, while another, his pregnant wife, sustained serious injuries and was flown to a hospital in Reykjavík.

Following the collapse, around 50-60 rescue workers were deployed to the site, working in rotating shifts to clear away ice by hand due to the inability to bring heavy equipment to the site. Although weather conditions were favorable, the difficult glacier environment posed challenges to the rescue efforts.

Authorities as well as Search & Rescue teams had initially been told that 25 tourists were on the tour but only 23 were accounted for. The assumption was that two people were buried under the ice or stuck in the cave.

After a day of Search & Rescue workers digging in the ice in three groups doing one-hour shifts at each time, the search was called off for the two missing people because they never went on the tour. So basically, the tour company only had 23 people on the tour but initially thought there was 25. 

The incident has sparked criticism from experts and officials regarding the safety practices of tour companies offering ice cave tours on Breiðamerkurjökull glacier. Experienced glacier guides had previously raised concerns about the dangers of operating such tours outside the safer winter months (December to March).

A 2017 risk assessment report had already warned against summer ice cave tours due to increased risks, yet tour companies continued these excursions year-round, driven by the growing tourism market.

In response to the accident, Vatnajökull National Park temporarily suspended all ice cave tours within its boundaries. The park authorities, along with government officials, expressed deep regret over the incident and acknowledged the failure to enforce earlier safety warnings. A government task force has been established to investigate why these warnings were not heeded and to ensure stricter regulations moving forward.

The conduct of the tour company involved, Ice Pic Journeys, has been criticized, particularly for its marketing practices. Officials are now calling for a reassessment of the regulatory framework governing ice cave tours, with potential new regulations to prohibit such tours during unsafe periods.

The Icelandic Tourist Board is also considering expanding its oversight to require all tour operators to submit safety plans, rather than relying on a sample. One other important finding is that the area where the accident took place had been advised against going to because of recent glacial movements over that summer that could make dangerous conditions.

Our current Prime Minister and other government officials have emphasized the need to understand the regulatory failures that led to the tragedy.

Iceland’s Prime Minister as reported by Iceland Review

The government is focusing on ensuring that appropriate safety measures are in place to prevent similar incidents in the future. The task force’s findings and recommendations are expected to influence new regulations, likely leading to the suspension of summer ice cave tours permanently.

The Safest time to go on an Ice Cave tour is from December to March, which is winter in Iceland and the ice caves are much more stable. It is important to remember that conditions can change, and it is possible for tours to be cancelled due to various reasons, like weather or the cave changing a lot. I know some people are wondering about other ice caves in places other than Vatnajökull in southeast. Katla Ice Cave and Into the Glacier come to mind.

Honestly, that is a tough one for me to answer because this incident made me question if those are ok as well. I am not saying they are not ok. However, I think it is normal to have some questions about what is being done differently than in this situation to prevent a tragic accident. Because I am not a glacier guide, I rely on expert guides to know the conditions of the glaciers.

If you are planning to take an ice cave tour outside of the winter season, I highly recommend asking the tour company about the safety plans they have in place and if the conditions are ok for this type of tour.

Glacier hikes are normally done all year long. Walking on a glacier as opposed to going inside of an ice cave that is located on a glacier are different experiences. They both have risks and require a glacier guide but glacier hikes are safe to do all year long.

There is a man-made ice cave in Perlan, a museum and exhibition space in Reykjavík, that you can visit anytime of the year if you want to experience an ice cave safely in the off season for natural ice caves.

Íshellir – Ice cave

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Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta og sjáumst fljótlega.

This episode is part of my Folklore Friday series where I am sharing a folklore story every Friday in 2024.

Kolugljúfur Canyon gets its name from the legendary giantess Kola, who made her home on a ledge within the gorge. According to local folklore, Kola was quite resourceful, often catching salmon straight from the river with her bare hands for breakfast.

On occasion, she would cook her catch in the Koluketill Kettle, a nearby natural hot spring, to enjoy a warm meal later in the day. Kola’s connection to this place was deeply practical—she appreciated the abundant salmon and the convenient hot spring rather than the scenic beauty that draws visitors today.

Kolugljúfur Canyon, located in the north of Iceland, is a hidden gem that showcases the raw beauty of Icelandic nature. This stunning canyon, approximately one kilometer long and up to 50 meters deep, was carved out by the Víðidalsá River over millennia. It is home to the spectacular Kolufossar Waterfalls, a series of cascades that tumble through the gorge, creating a breathtaking natural spectacle.

Despite its beauty, Kolugljúfur remains off the beaten path, offering visitors a peaceful and uncrowded experience. Two main hiking trails allow for exploration of the canyon’s depths or a more leisurely stroll along the rim, providing stunning views at every turn. The area is also rich in birdlife and other fauna, adding to its appeal as a destination for nature enthusiasts.

Go Car Rental Iceland is a local Icelandic car rental company that has great customer service, a large variety of cars and very competitive prices. Use my code Iceland10 to save 10% off the entire cost of your rental car.

I personally use them for when I go on adventures, and I’m so glad to hear that many of my listeners and subscribers are also having a great experience with them. I mentioned in a previous episode that one of my listeners switched to Go Car Rental Iceland from one of the internationally known rental car companies here and she saved $400! That was for a rental during the summer when prices can sometimes double due to demand.

If you plan to use a campervan, use my code Iceland7 to save 7% and get two free duvets with your GO Camper van rental. Also, I have a great episode coming up soon about how to choose the right camper van for your travels in Iceland, so keep an eye out for that.

Kolugljúfur is broken down into two words. Kola is the name of the giantess and means coal. While gljúfur means canyon.

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Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta og sjáumst fljótlega.

This episode is part of my Folklore Friday series where I am sharing a folklore story every Friday in 2024.

The Saga of Örvar-Oddur from the 13th or 14th century mentions the Lyngbakur. In part of the saga, Oddur is seeing vengeance against Ögmundur Flóki (sometimes referred to as Ögmundur Eyþjófsbani or “Eythjof’s-killer”) for the murder of his blood-brother Þórður.

To make it safely to Ögmundr Flóki’s location, Oddur was guided by his half-giant son, Vignir. Oddur and his crew set sail towards a fjord in Helluland where Ögmundur was rumored to be hiding. Along the way, they encountered two enormous sea creatures that were so large they appeared as islands.

In the saga, Vignir said, “These were two sea monsters, one called Hafgúfa and the other Lyngbakur. Hafgúfa is the largest creature in the entire ocean. It devours men, ships, whales, and anything else nearby. It stays submerged for days before surfacing, and when it does, it remains on the surface for at least one tide.”

Five men had mistakenly disembarked on what they believed was an island, only to be dragged into the sea when Lyngbakur dove beneath the waves, leading to their deaths. Despite this, the group managed to navigate through the jaws of Hafgúfa, the other monster that Ögmundur had magically summoned to stop them.

The book “Meeting with the Monsters” is a wonderful resource if you want to learn more about sea monsters in Iceland.

The lyngbakur is said to eat every three years when it swallows everything in its path, including birds, fish and any other life in the sea.

Lyngbakur – Heather back

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Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta og sjáumst fljótlega.

This episode is part of my Folklore Friday series where I am sharing a folklore story every Friday in 2024.

Long ago, in the northern reaches of Iceland, there was a farmstead called Skíðastaðir, where a wealthy farmer ruled with an iron fist. His wealth was immense, and he had many laborers working tirelessly, both summer and winter. The farmer was known for his strict ways, especially during the haymaking season. He demanded that the women servants cook meals only on Sundays, leaving the other days for hard labor in the fields. Church was out of the question, and reading the bible was forbidden. His farm was a place of toil, not of worship.

One Sunday morning, something strange happened. A mysterious man, dressed in white and holding a staff, was seen by many in the area. He was walking northwards over Vansdalsfjall, a mountain that loomed above Skíðastaðir. The man stopped at the top of the mountain, looked down upon the farm, and struck the earth with his staff.

Suddenly, the ground began to shake, and a massive landslide started to rumble down the slope, growing larger and more terrifying as it descended. This unstoppable force crashed into the farmhouse, leaving nothing but destruction in its wake. All who lived there perished, except for one young girl who had, by some twist of fate, been away from the farmhouse at that very moment.

This girl had lived at Skíðastaðir for a long time, but her heart was heavy with sorrow. She was deeply troubled by the farmer’s godlessness, yet she remained kind and dutiful, earning the affection of her masters and fellow workers alike.

She often cooked on holy days without complaint, though her only reward was being allowed to scrape the pots clean. The winter before the landslide was one of the harshest anyone could remember. People and animals alike were starving, but the wealthy farmer refused to share his abundance, turning away those who came to him in desperate need.

The girl, however, could not bear to see others suffer. She would give what little she could to the poor and hungry, even offering them the scrapings from the pots. The winter was cruel to the animals too, and they died in great numbers, their bodies piling up as the cold tightened its grip.

Ravens gathered at the farms, searching for any scraps that might be thrown out. Moved by their plight, the girl threw out whatever she could from the kitchen. One raven, in particular, became fond of her, following her wherever she went outside. He was always there, waiting for her to share a morsel.

As spring turned to summer, the raven continued his visits, arriving early each morning at Skíðastaðir. The girl, with her kind heart, always saved a bit of food for him. On the fateful Sunday morning when the landslide occurred, she had risen early to cook porridge.

Eager to feed her raven friend, she hurried to scrape the pot before he arrived. But when she went outside, the raven was acting strangely. He wouldn’t touch the food she offered, instead fluttering around anxiously and then flying a short distance away into the field.

Puzzled, the girl followed him, determined to find out what was wrong. The raven flew a little farther each time she approached, leading her further and further from the farmhouse. She didn’t understand why he was behaving this way, but she trusted him and kept following.

Eventually, they had traveled some distance south of the homefield when the girl decided it was time to turn back.
Just then, she heard a terrifying roar coming from the mountain. She turned to see the landslide crashing down, sweeping away the farmhouse and everything in its path.

The realization struck her like a bolt of lightning—the raven had saved her life. Overcome with gratitude, she thanked God with all her heart for sending this wise and faithful bird to lead her to safety.

According to the Icelandic Institute of Natural History’s website

Raven – krummi eða hrafn

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Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta og sjáumst fljótlega.

This is the fourth episode for my segment “Ask Jewells Anything About Iceland”. Thank you to everyone who sent in questions. If you would like to submit a question, please use this link.

You can check out previous episodes on Ask Jewells Anything About Iceland here.

If you have questions that are specifically for an upcoming trip and getting the answer is time-sensitive, feel free to book a one-hour private video trip planning call with me.

Flights from Reykjavik, Edinburgh, and Oslo to the Faroe Islands with Atlantic Airways are only one hour long,

The Faroe Islands can also be reached by ferry from Iceland and Denmark. Slow travel at its best! This service is operated by a Faroese company, Smyril Line.

Icelandair flights are currently 5-6 times a week from May to October. The price starts at $206 if departing from Reykjavík

Check out Visit Faroe Islands for more information.

I think the Nap and Go program is a great option to get some rest before heading out on the road. It seems that you need to contact the hotels for the room rates because they are not on their websites.

Taking the ferry to the Westman Islands has been a very positive experience for me. I think the best route is when you depart from Landeyjahöfn on mainland Iceland and going to Heimaey. You can book you car as part of your ferry ticket, which makes getting around the island even easier.

I talk a lot about the coping mechanisms I have used to thrive, and not just survive, winter in Iceland in this video.

Icelandic has several things that make it difficult. Pronunciation, declensions, conjugations, and some exceptions to rules can trip anyone up. This includes Icelanders. I think my avoidance of saying something wrong due to the four cases in which words can decline or conjugating verbs was more of an issue than saying words properly.

For many language learners that have an accent when they speak Icelandic, that can be a deterrent in having Icelanders understanding what you are saying because most Icelanders are not accustomed to hearing an accent when they speak Icelandic.

The selection of my theme song was based on me wanting to play music that gave you the vibe of taking a road trip or feeling nostalgic.

It would have been nice to have a local Icelandic band create the sound but I was DIYing everything so there was not a lot of money to put into this. After many hours of checking out music on a royalty free music site, I knew I had found the right song.

Yes, I have many lodging recommendations on My Iceland Map.

My absolute pleasure! Iceland is very child friendly. There are many playgrounds, museums for younger people, local pools, and being out in nature, like doing the Golden Circle or driving around the country. Some museums that families love to take their kids are Perlan, The Lava Show, Whale of Iceland, and the Árbæjarsafn Open Air Museum.

Glacier hikes, zip-lining or very strenuous hikes are the activities I do not recommend for young children.

The swimming pool in Vík – https://sundlaugar.is/en/sundlaugasafn/vik/

Höfn swimming pool – https://www.south.is/en/service/hofn-swimming-pool

Yes, Dominos, Black Box Pizza, tons of burger places like 2 Guys, Tommi’s Burger Joint, Dirty Burgers and Ribs, Íslenska Hamborgarafabrikkan, and Yuzu Burger. There is also always the famous Icelandic hot dog which can be found downtown and at pretty much any gas station in the country.

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Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta og sjáumst fljótlega.

This episode is part of my Folklore Friday series where I am sharing a folklore story every Friday in 2024.

Many centuries ago, a hard working farmer that lived below the Eyjafjöll mountains in South Iceland married a young woman. To his surprise and dismay, he found out after their marriage that his new wife was kind of lazy and lacking motivation to do much.

Because they lived on a farm and there were many chores to be done, it bothered the farmer that his wife was not pitching in. In the fall of that year, the farmer gave his wife a large quantity of wool to weave into clothing. As the winter approached and went fully engulfed the area, the farmer noticed that his wife had yet to touch the wool.

One day while the farmer was away, a rather tall and large woman came to the farmer’s wife and asked for a favor. While it is not specified what the favor was, the farmer’s wife immediately asked the woman for something in return. The large woman said sure and inquired about what the farmer’s wife wanted.

The farmer’s wife requested that the large woman weave the wool into clothing. Without skipping a beat, the large woman said no problem, swung the wool over her shoulder and said she will return with the clothing by the first day of summer. The farmer’s wife asked what the woman wanted as payment for the work. Well, the large woman thought about it and said, if you can guess correctly what my name is then we will be even. She then vanished into the countryside.

Of course, the farmer noticed that the wool was gone and asked his wife what happened to it. She replied that it was none of his business and that he will have his wool clothes by the first day of summer. While he wasn’t happy about this answer, he shrugged it off and went on about his work.

As the end of winter approached, the farmer’s wife grew more worried that the large woman would return and that she wouldn’t be able to guess her name. The anxiety within the farmer’s wife grew so much that she could hardly get out of bed and was melancholy. The farmer noticed this and asked her what is wrong. Finally, she broke down and told her husband the whole story. After hearing the story, the farmer was frightened that his wife had encountered a troll-wife that would kidnap his wife if she didn’t guess the name correctly.

As fate would have it, the farmer was walking in a valley one day and heard a strange voice singing. He was able to keep himself hidden but saw that it was a large troll like woman weaving wool and singing “Hi ho, hi ho, the farmer’s wife doesn’t know my name. Gilitrutt’s my name. Gilitrutt’s my name. Hi, ho, hi, ho.”

The farmer ran back to his house and wrote the name down.

Time continued to pass and the last day of winter was upon them. The farmer asked his wife if she knew the name of the woman that helped her and she said no in a depressed tone because she knew that meant she was done for. Finally, the farmer told her what had happened and that he had written the name of the troll down. He gave her the note and said to say it to the troll when she arrived.

On the morning of the first day of summer, it seemed that no one was around. The wife lay in bed frightened. All of a sudden, she heard heavy foot steps and the large troll woman came into the house with the sack of woolen clothing. She immediately demanded for the farmer’s wife to say her name.

The farmer’s wife was trembling but she asked if the troll’s name was Ása. The troll laughed and said no. Then she asked if it was Signý. The troll was giddy with joy because she felt confident that the farmer’s wife would never get it right but said she was willing to give her one more chance to answer. At last, the farmer’s wife said “Gilitrutt”. At the sound of her name, the troll screamed with horror and ran away. She was never seen or heard from again.

Icelandic trolls are said to live in uninhabitable places, like rocky mountains and the highlands. They have been known to lure humans into caves with magic or by capturing them.

Tröllskessa – troll woman – big, ugly woman with an attitude

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Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta og sjáumst fljótlega.

At the summit of Hólmaháls, just above the road, lies the grave mound of a Völva, or prophetess, who has been believed to protect Reyðarfjörður and Eskifjörður from sea attacks for centuries.

This episode is part of my Folklore Friday series where I am sharing a folklore story every Friday in 2024.

According to legend, the prophetess lived in Sómastaðir in the 17th century. Before her death, she requested to be buried in a location that offered the best view of Reyðarfjörður. She claimed that as long as her bones remained undisturbed, the fjords of Eskifjörður and Reyðarfjörður would be safe from maritime attacks.

Later, when Algerian Turks attempted to invade the East Fjords, intending to sail into Reyðarfjörður and plunder the area, they encountered an impenetrable fog at the fjord’s entrance, which forced them to retreat.

The legend further states that as long as stones are regularly added to the prophetess’ grave, the fjords will remain protected from disaster.

Reyðarfjörður’s strategic location and harbor conditions played a role in WWII because it was the second-largest of the Allied bases in Iceland during the war. There is a WWII museum in this fjord.

Völva – prophetess

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Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta og sjáumst fljótlega.

In the mystic landscapes of Iceland, the northern lights weave tales as ancient as the glaciers. According to some Icelandic folklore, these shimmering lights are more than just natural phenomena.

This episode is part of my Folklore Friday series where I am sharing a folklore story every Friday in 2024.

They are believed to be the restless spirits of the deceased, particularly those who have yet to find their final resting place. As the auroras dance across the sky, it’s thought that these spirits are performing a celestial ballet, painting the heavens with their ethereal colors.

Another enchanting legend tells of an arctic fox with a tail as swift as the wind. As this fox dashes across the snow-covered wilderness, its sweeping tail brushes against the icy terrain, causing the northern lights to ignite the sky. The vibrant glow of the auroras is said to mirror the fox’s fur, casting a luminous reflection on the snow and ice below.

The belief in dancing elves adds another layer of magic to the northern lights. In the quiet of the Icelandic night, when the sky comes alive with the auroras, it is said that elves and hidden people, known as Huldufólk, emerge from their secret abodes. These supernatural beings celebrate under the bright auroras, their joyous dances lighting up the night.

Some Icelanders have even claimed to hear faint strains of music and laughter accompanying the lights, a testament to the deep-rooted belief in the connection between the elves and the northern lights.

But not all tales of the northern lights are filled with joy. In times past, their appearance was often seen as a harbinger of bad weather or impending storms. The luminous displays in the sky were sometimes viewed with apprehension, signaling that nature’s fury was soon to be unleashed.

Yet, amidst these varied beliefs, the northern lights were also seen as a beacon of hope and good fortune. To witness the auroras was considered a stroke of luck, especially for those on the brink of a journey or a significant life event. The lights served as a celestial blessing, promising good luck and safe passage.

In the end, the northern lights are more than just a natural spectacle in Icelandic folklore. They are a tapestry of stories, each thread woven with the imagination and beliefs of a people deeply connected to the natural world around them. Whether seen as the spirits of the dead, the brush of a fox’s tail, the dance of elves, a warning of storms, or a sign of good fortune, the auroras continue to captivate and inspire, lighting up the skies and the hearts of all who behold them.

The Northern Lights have been found to make a sound. According to a study from a Finnish researcher Unto K. Laine, the colorful displays of the Northern Lights produced a crackling sound which related to the electromagnetic renounces of the Earth! ⁠

Norðurljós – Northern Lights

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Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta og sjáumst fljótlega.

Whether you’re part of the LGBTQ+ community or an ally, visiting Iceland during Pride is an unforgettable experience. This guide will delve into why you should consider timing your visit to coincide with Reykjavík Pride, what events to look forward to, and what else you can enjoy in Iceland during August.

Reykjavík Pride, or “Hinsegin Dagar” in Icelandic, is a week-long festival held every August that celebrates the LGBTQ+ community. This event is not just a parade but a full-fledged festival filled with various activities that cater to all ages and interests. Here are several reasons why visiting during Pride is a fantastic idea:

Reykjavík Pride is a testament to Iceland’s progressive and inclusive society. The country is known for its acceptance and support of LGBTQ+ rights, being one of the first countries to legalize same-sex marriage in 2010. The Pride festivities reflect this spirit of inclusivity, making everyone feel welcome and celebrated.

The highlight of Reykjavík Pride is undoubtedly the parade. Held on the second Saturday of August, the parade attracts thousands of locals and visitors who line the streets to watch the colorful and joyous procession.

Expect to see an array of floats, performers, and enthusiastic participants showcasing their support for the LGBTQ+ community. The parade route winds through downtown Reykjavík, making it accessible and easy to join in on the fun. It starts at Hallgrímskirkja church and ends at Hljómskálagarðurinn for a big concert and speeches.

Reykjavík Pride is not just for adults; it’s a family-friendly event with activities for all ages. There are special events designed for children, such as the Family Rainbow Festival, which includes face painting, games, and entertainment for the little ones. This inclusive approach ensures that everyone, regardless of age, can participate in the celebrations.

In addition to the parade, Reykjavík Pride offers a variety of cultural and educational events. These include film screenings, panel discussions, art exhibitions, and workshops that delve into LGBTQ+ issues and history. These programs provide a deeper understanding of the community’s struggles and triumphs, making the festival both fun and enlightening.

For those looking to party, Reykjavík Pride doesn’t disappoint. The week is packed with concerts, club nights, and after-parties that feature local and international artists. The Pride Opening Party and the Official Pride Dance are particularly popular, offering a chance to dance the night away with new friends. Kiki’s Queer bar downtown is a great place to party but there are plenty of other bars to celebrate during this time.

While Reykjavík Pride is a significant draw, there’s plenty more to explore in Iceland during August. Here are some activities and sights you shouldn’t miss:

The capital city, Reykjavík, is a hub of culture and history. Take a stroll down Laugavegur, the main shopping street, where you can find unique boutiques, cafes, and street art. Visit the iconic Hallgrímskirkja church, which offers panoramic views of the city from its tower. Don’t forget to check out the Harpa Concert Hall and the Sun Voyager sculpture along the waterfront.

Iceland’s natural beauty is breathtaking, and August is the perfect time to experience it. The weather is mild, and the days are long, providing ample time for outdoor adventures. Here are a few must-see natural wonders:

Iceland is famous for its geothermal activity, and there’s no better way to relax than in a hot spring. The Blue Lagoon near Reykjavík is world-renowned, but there are many other lesser-known spots worth visiting:

For thrill-seekers, August in Iceland offers numerous adventure activities:

This and many other awesome places around Iceland are on My Iceland Map. It was created for those who want to pick out places and hidden gems around Iceland to make up their own itinerary or add to one that they already created.

With full access, you get over 290 places that I recommend in Iceland, along with four itineraries to use for planning your trip. Those itineraries include a 10-day Ring Road trip, a 3-day South Iceland trip, The Famous Golden Circle and a Reykjanes Peninsula Day Trip.

A one-time purchase gives you lifetime access, which includes any updates I make to the map.

Here is a link to my Iceland map: rexby.com/jewells/Iceland.

Apart from Reykjavík Pride, August hosts several other festivals and events:

While the midnight sun starts to wane in August, you still get extended daylight hours. This means more time to explore and less need to rush your activities. The long evenings are perfect for photography, with the golden hour lasting much longer than usual.

Reykjavík Pride is more than just a parade; it’s a celebration of diversity, love, and acceptance. Visiting Iceland during this time offers a unique opportunity to experience the country’s vibrant culture and stunning landscapes while participating in one of the most inclusive festivals in the world.

From family-friendly events to adventurous excursions, August in Iceland has something for everyone. So pack your bags, join the festivities, and create unforgettable memories in the land of fire and ice.

Iceland has had an openly gay prime minister. It was also among the first countries in the world to legalize same-sex marriage and adoption rights. Since 1999, Iceland has been celebrating Pride and some years have seen up to 100,000 attendees.

Hinsegin Dagar – Queer Days

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