Iceland is a country that comes alive during summer. June, July and August are some of the best times to visit the country. In addition to seemingly endless sunlight, the small island nation is also bustling with activities and things to do. The weather in Iceland in July is ideal, and it shows. Icelanders have spent many of the previous months indoors, so when the sun comes out, so do they. From music and cultural festivals to marathons and races, Iceland in July will definitely not disappoint. Let’s look at everything on offer with Iceland’s summer festivals.
July 4th – 8th: The Siglufjordr Folk Music Festival
www.siglofestival.com/english/
This five-day music festival features Icelandic and Scandinavian folk music. You can also discover music and folk dances from around the world. There are around 20 concerts in different parts of Siglufjordr.
July 7th: The Thorsvaldalur Terrain Run
www.sites.google.com/a/umse.is/thorvaldsdalur_english/
This run takes place every year in Northern Iceland’s Þorvaldsdalur Valley. Started in 1994, it’s Iceland’s oldest run of its kind and is quite a change for those used to running on pavement. Are you up to the challenge?
July 11th – 14th: The Einstaflug Rock and Heavy Metal Music Festival
www.eistnaflug.is/en/
Metalheads descend upon the eastern Icelandic town of Neskaupsstaður to rock out for three music-filled days and nights. See the lineup of bands and buy tickets on the Einstaflug website. You don’t want to miss the chance to see these acts perform live.
July 13th – 14th: The KEXPort Concert Series and Block Party
www.kexhostel.is/
KEX Hostel and KEXP Radio have partnered to bring you a free indoor concert series and outdoor block party with several bands and musicians. The party goes from noon until midnight. You’ll want to contact KEX hostel in downtown Reykjavik as they are the organizers and the jam sessions take place in and behind the hostel.
July 14th – 16th: Gásir Medieval Trading Festival Weekend
www.visitakureyri.is/en/things-to-do/events-and-festivals/medieval-trading-weekend-at-gasir-july-
Who doesn’t love a good medieval festival? Costumes, crafts, games, and more. There might even be a sword fight or two. Throw on your best knightly or maidenly getup and head to Gásir in Eyjafjordur to do your best Game of Thrones impression on this re-created historical site. Watch out for the Imp!
July 14th: The Laugavegur Ultra Marathon
www.marathon.is/ultramarathon
This course is both a new experience for runners and takes them through some of the most picturesque areas of the country. You’ll run along the famed Laugavegur Trail that links the Landmannalaugar and Thorsmork nature reserves. Run along rolling green hills and black volcanic rocks for the ultimate challenge. Registration ends July 1st, so be sure to sign up before you miss the deadline!
July 15th – 22nd: The LungA Art Festival
www.lunga.is/en
Started in the year 2000, this event has grown year after year with participants coming back for more every time. This spectacular weekend in Seydisfjordur is a celebration of art, culture and creativity. With various activities such as workshops, lectures, exhibitions, and concerts, you will get your cultural fill at this annual art festival in Iceland.
July 28th: The Bræðslan Music Festival
www.braedslan.is/en/braedslan/
An old factory in Bakkagerði (East Iceland) has been transformed into a venue for an indoor music festival. The Bræðslan features Icelandic bands and makes for the perfect stop on your Icelandic summer road trip. You can even camp nearby, but if you choose more standard accommodation be sure to book in advance.
Iceland in July – Summer Festivals
As you can see, Iceland has a ton to offer during the month of July, and we don’t just mean the weather. Whether you’re interested in music, art or culture, why not head to Iceland this summer?
