Why August is the Perfect Time to Visit Reykjavík
August is one of the most exciting times to visit Reykjavík. The weather is still mild, the days are long, and the city is alive with energy. From street festivals and music-filled nights to parades that celebrate love and diversity, Reykjavík turns into a playground of creativity and connection. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a local looking for something new, August is the time to dive into the spirit of the city.
The Month Begins with the Biggest Travelling Weekend
The first weekend of August marks Verslunarmannahelgi, or the “Merchant’s Weekend,” Iceland’s biggest summer holiday. Traditionally, a time when locals leave the city for camping, music festivals, and cabin getaways, it also brings one of Reykjavík’s favourite indoor music events: Innipúkinn Music Festival.
Innipúkinn flips the idea of summer partying on its head. Why head to the countryside when you can enjoy the best of Icelandic music downtown? With various venues hosting top local acts, it’s the perfect place to soak up Reykjavík’s urban cool and kick off the month in style.
Reykjavík Pride
Few events capture Reykjavík’s open-hearted spirit like Reykjavík Pride. Held during the second week of August, it’s a week-long celebration of the LGBTQ+ community, featuring drag shows, family-friendly events, talks, and art installations, all culminating in the grand Pride Parade on Saturday.
The parade begins at Hallgrímskirkja and proceeds through the city, featuring colourful floats, confetti, and cheering crowds. Reykjavík has long been recognised for its progressiveness and inclusivity, and Pride is a proud, joyful expression of that. Whether you're part of the LGBTQ+ community or an ally, this is a can't-miss celebration of love in all its forms.
Reykjavík Culture Night
Menningarnótt, or Culture Night, takes place on August 23 and turns Reykjavík into a giant cultural stage. Museums open late, art exhibitions spill onto the streets, live music fills every square, and families roam the city enjoying everything from poetry readings to pop-up theatre.
Locals and visitors alike join in, whether watching a brass band from a balcony, discovering new artists, or enjoying waffles in someone’s backyard. The day ends in a spectacular fireworks display over Arnarhóll, lighting up the city skyline and sending summer off with a bang.
Reykjavík Jazz Festival
From August 26–31, Reykjavík swings to the sound of saxophones, bass lines, and improvisation during the Reykjavík Jazz Festival. Hosted in venues like the beautiful Harpa Concert Hall, this festival draws jazz talent from Iceland and abroad.
Whether you're into classic jazz, experimental styles, or world fusion, the festival offers a diverse lineup that invites deep listening and soulful nights. It's the perfect cultural note to wind down the month with elegance and rhythm.
A Local Festival in Mosfellsbær City Area
Just a short drive from central Reykjavík, Mosfellsbær City Area hosts Í Túninu Heima (“In the Field at Home”) in late August.
This local festival blends music, family activities, community art, and outdoor fun. Set among green fields and mountain views, this cosy festival is ideal if looking for a more laid-back, authentic experience. Think small-town warmth meets Icelandic creativity, with pancakes, local musicians, and smiling faces all around.
Hamraborg Festival
Rounding out the month, the Hamraborg Festival takes place from August 29 to September 5 in the town centre of Kópavogur, just minutes from Reykjavík.
This contemporary art festival turns the Hamraborg area into an open canvas for visual artists, performers, and designers. Expect installations in unexpected places, experimental performances, and collaborations that push the boundaries of what art can be. It’s a fresh and modern complement to Reykjavík’s historic art scene and a wonderful excuse to explore the greater capital area.
With every weekend packed with music, art, pride, and cultural immersion, August in Reykjavík is a celebration of everything that makes the city so special. Whether you’re dancing downtown, waving a rainbow flag, listening to jazz under the midnight sun, or exploring nearby towns, there’s no better time to fall in love with Reykjavík.
