Reykjavik Cultural Night

Reykjavík has a thriving community of artists, performers, and musicians, and a variety of galleries, museums, and cultural venues, making Menningarnótt, or Reykjavík Culture Night, one of the most anticipated events of the year. The city center streets close for pedestrians to roam free, and all of downtown transforms into one giant festival celebrating music, art, food, and theatre with a spectacular firework show to close the night. The city’s museums, theatres, and cultural institutions put on a multitude of free events open to one and all in celebration of the start of the city's cultural year and the launch of the new annual program of events. But before you hit the streets to check out the festivities, why not get a lay of the land?

The History Behind the Culture

Hop on a Reykjavik City Sightseeing Tour minibus and experience a perfect blend of what makes the city so rich in history, art, and culture. From such historic landmarks as the Höfði house and the presidential residence at Bessastaðir to the architectural beauty of Harpa concert hall and Hallgrímskrkja church, exploring the city center and its surrounding areas will give you a real feel for what makes this city so unique.

Get Your Bearings

The Perlan glass dome offers, by far, the best view of Reykjavík. The observation deck wraps around the entire dome allowing for a 360-degree elevated view where you can piece together all of the places you’ve been and see where you’ll be going next. On the opposite end of the city, the view from the Old Harbour gives you a chance to see the docks as well as the distinctive ships and boats that call it home, and a breathtaking view of the spectacular Mount Esja. 

Menningarnótt

By the time Menningarnótt rolls around, you will know your way around the city center and feel prepared to wander the streets dotted with art exhibitions, musical performances, and many more unexpected delights. Taking place on a Saturday in the latter part of August, the day begins with the Reykjavík City Marathon and the cultural festivities usually begin in the early afternoon, free of charge and open to all ages. Be sure to check out all of the Menningarnótt events on the website and as the festival slogan goes, “Come on in!”