The long, dark days of Iceland’s winter will become a bit brighter this February when the annual Winter Lights Festival illuminates the city of Reykjavik. From February 6-15, a variety of unique events will take place throughout Iceland’s capital. From spectacular light displays to eclectic museum exhibits, the free festival is sure to brighten Iceland’s dark winter days!
Light Displays
The festival brings light to the darkness with stunning light installations, illuminating some of the city’s most prominent buildings and public spaces, such as the iconic Hallgrímskirkja and Harpa concert hall. Artists from across Europe will showcase their beautiful light-art pieces, all sponsored by the Scandinavian art and culture fund, Kultur Kontakt Nord. Festival-goers are also encouraged to join in the fun and help illuminate the city by creating their own works of light-art.
Denver Calling Reykjavik Concert
On February 6, after the opening ceremonies, top musicians from Denver and Iceland collaborate in cross-cultural celebration at the Denver Calling concert in Reykjavik. Featured artists from Denver include Tyler Ludwick (Princess Music), Esme Patterson (Paper Bird) and Jesse Elliot (Ark Life). Icelandic artists will Hogni Egilsson (Hjaltalin & Gus Gus), Lay Low and Snorri Helgason.
Museum Night
Along with the beautiful light displays, the festival offers a number of fun events to enjoy. Friday, February 7 is Museum Night, when forty museums across the capital area open their doors to the public for free and stay open until midnight. Each museum will offer engaging events for guests of all ages to enjoy, including museum quiz night. A complimentary bus service will be available to transfer guests between all the museums, making it easier to visit as many as possible.
Pool Night
Another popular festival feature is pool night, held on Saturday, February 15. From 8pm to midnight, guests can enjoy Laugardalslaug, Sundhöll and Grafarvogslaug swimming pools free of charge. The pools in Reykjavík are heated with thermal water, giving visitors the unique opportunity to swim comfortably outdoors during the height of winter.
Prepare to be amazed at the dramatic interplay of darkness and light at the 2014 Winter Lights Festival!
Want a glimpse of Reykjavik’s Winter Lights Festival? Take a look at this video from last year’s festival! For the full list of events and more information on the festival, click here.
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