28 events happening this week—Reykjavík never sleeps!

Events & Festivals in Reykjavík

Concerts, parties, festivals & city-wide celebrations—updated daily.

The Pulse of the Arctic Circle

Despite its size, Reykjavík boasts a vibrant and eclectic event scene that punches well above its weight, from world-renowned music festivals like Iceland Airwaves to underground DJ sets in cozy downtown bars, there’s always something happening. The city thrives on creativity, offering a unique blend of local talent and international acts against a backdrop of stunning natural beauty.

Insider Tip

Reykjavík’s nightlife starts late. Most locals don’t head to the clubs until after midnight, so pace yourself with a pre-party bar. Language is the main street for bar hopping!

Happening Soon

live music

Starts soon

Indie Night Showcase

Catch the best up-and-coming indie bands from Iceland’s vibrant…

food fest

Local favorite

Taste of Reykjavík Food Fest

Sample dishes from the city’s best restaurants and food trucks all…

club night

Night club

Winter Lights Festival

Catch the best up-and-coming indie bands from Iceland’s vibrant…

festival

Free

Acoustic Sessions

A cozy and intimate evening featuring talented local singer-…

food fest

Trending

Iceland Airwaves Warm-Up

Get a taste of the iconic festival with free shows across downtown…

live music

Free

Viking Beats

The legendary hip hop night at one of Reykjavík’s oldest bars. A true…

festival

Starts soon

Geysir Techno Rave

An explosive night of hard-hitting techno. Prepare for a late night…

concert

Low tickets

Northern Lights Grooves

Experience an unforgettable night of electronic music under a…

Find Events That Match Your Vibe **

What Locals Say

The live music scene here is unreal. You can walk into almost any bar on a Friday night and find an amazing band playing.
E.S
Local Musician
Don't miss the smaller festivals! They're even more fun than the big ones—authentic community vibe. That's where the real magic is
R.K
Culture Blogger
Honestly, the best nights are the spontaneous ones. Start at one bar and just see where the night takes you. You won't be disappointed.
A.G
Local Reykjavíker

Quick Tips for a Great Night

Peak Days: Most popular events happen from Thursday to Saturday.

Late Start: Nightlife doesn't get going until after midnight.

Early Bird: Many festivals sell out fast—book tickets in advance.

Dress in Layers: Weather is unpredictable—it's easy to take off layers if it gets too hot.

Happy Hour: Look for "happy hour" signs to save on expensive drinks before you go main event.

Transport: Taxis are reliable but pricey; check for night bus schedules as a cheaper alternative.

Card is King: Almost everywhere accepts credit/debit cards, even for small purchases.

Check Age Limits: Many venues have strict 20+ age restrictions, especially on weekends.

Find Your Fun on the Map **

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I wear to events in Reykjavík?
Reykjavík’s event scene is generally relaxed and smart-casual, but it depends on the type of event. For concerts, live music venues, and casual bars, jeans, boots, a nice sweater or jacket, and comfortable shoes are perfect—prioritize warmth with layers, as the weather can change quickly. Locals often dress stylishly but practically.
It varies by event. Many smaller bar gigs, club nights, and casual parties allow entry at the door (often with a small cover charge on weekends). However, for major concerts (especially at venues like Harpa), popular festivals (e.g., Iceland Airwaves or seasonal events), and high-demand shows, tickets are strongly recommended in advance—they frequently sell out quickly. Platforms like Tix.is, Eventbrite, Bandsintown, or Songkick are commonly used. Check the event listing for details; buying early also often secures better prices.
Reykjavík is famous for its late-night vibe—things start slow and ramp up after midnight. On weekdays (Sunday–Thursday), bars usually close around 1 AM. On weekends (Friday–Saturday), the party goes much later: bars until 3–4 AM, and clubs often stay open until 4:30–6 AM (or whenever the crowd thins out). Concerts and live music might end earlier (around 11 PM–midnight), but after-parties or bar-hopping continue into the early morning. Nightlife peaks between 1–3 AM, so pace yourself!