Welcome to Reykjavik in June: Experience the Magic of the Midnight Sun!

06/06/2024 11:06

We are thrilled to have you with us during your stay in Reykjavik this June. The city has a lot to offer for its visitors and locals alike, and we’d like to keep you informed so you can make the best of your time here with us. June is one of the most enchanting times to visit Iceland, thanks to the long days and the energy of summer festivals. Have a look at all the different events happening this month and enjoy the brightest time of the year here in Iceland! Should you need any assistance or recommendations, our team at Center Hotels is here to help.

Reykjavik Arts Festival (June 1-16, 2024) Welcome to the Reykjavik Arts Festival! This celebration of outstanding artistic creations from around the world promises a vibrant mix of performances and exhibitions, embracing diversity and prioritizing accessibility. Enjoy a wide variety of events, including many free ones. Tickets for all ticketed events are now available.

The Color Run (June 8, 2024) Get ready for the Color Run! A vibrant 5k running event starting at Laugardalsvöllur. Unlike any other run, participants will be doused in colorful powders at four color gates along the route. The colors are a safe blend of magical hues and cornstarch, ensuring a fun and natural experience. You can register for the run up until the day of the event. Join the run for a day of color and fun!

Iceland's Independence Day (June 17, 2024) Join the celebrations during Iceland's Independence Day! Every June 17th, we commemorate our independence in 1944. The festivities start at Austurvöllur, where the President of Iceland usually lays a wreath in memory of Jón Sigurðsson, our national hero, followed by a keynote speech from our Prime Minister. Also, don't miss the address from Fjallkonan, whose identity remains a secret until the ceremony.

Viking Festival in Hafnarfjörður (June 13-18, 2024) Join the Vikings in Hafnarfjörður! Located in Víðistaðatún Park, this family-friendly festival offers a unique experience for all ages. The park transforms into a bustling Viking market, featuring tents filled with leather goods, fur, silver jewelry, and swords. Enjoy the sights and sounds of Vikings roasting lamb, engaging in combat, dancing, and storytelling. Set your sails and immerse yourself in the Viking festivities!

Reykjavik Fringe Festival (June 17-23, 2024) Experience the Reykjavik Fringe Festival! Local and international artists will perform across the city, with a diverse lineup of theatre, dance, circus, comedy, poetry, drag, burlesque, children's shows, magic, and more. House of Heart, the drag house that has been performing at our regular drag brunches, has a show at the festival. Don't miss this artistic extravaganza at the height of summer in Reykjavik!

Blooming Lupine and the Midnight Sun (June - July 2024) From the beginning of June through July, Iceland's landscape transforms into a vibrant tapestry of purple, pink, and blue as lupine (Lúpína) blooms spectacularly across the volcanic soils. While exploring Iceland, you'll also witness the magic of the midnight sun around June 21st, bathing the landscape in nearly 24 hours of daylight. This unique phenomenon, combined with the blooming lupine, makes for an unforgettable summer experience.

We hope you have an amazing time exploring all that Reykjavik has to offer this June. For any assistance or recommendations, our team at Center Hotels is here to help. Enjoy your stay and the endless daylight!

Wildlife Adventures in Iceland: Foxes, Whales, and Puffins Await!

04/09/2024

Iceland’s wildlife is as unique and resilient as the island itself. Despite the harsh weather and challenging landscapes, a remarkable variety of species have adapted to thrive here. From the Arctic fox, Iceland's only native land mammal, to the numerous whale species and vibrant puffins that visit the island, Iceland offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of these hardy creatures.

Staff Picks: Michael Thor’s 3 Favorite Things in Reykjavik

18/07/2024

Hey there! Ready to explore Reykjavik like a local? Join @Michaelthorpaoli, one of our amazing Marketing team members at Center Hotels, as he shares his top picks in the city. Michael, who’s half French and half Icelandic, has lived in both countries, giving him a unique blend of cultural insights. With a background as a costumier in film & TV, a bachelor's degree in tourism, and tons of experience as a guide, Michael brings creativity and expertise to everything he does. He’s been part of the Center Hotels family for three years and is passionate about Iceland’s rich culture and stunning landscapes.

The Icelandic eruption that shook the world!

10/07/2024

The Skaftáreldar eruptions, one of the greatest volcanic events in Icelandic history, took place from 1783 to 1784. Originating from Lakagígar, a spectacular row of craters stretching over 29 kilometers, these eruptions are remembered not only for their sheer magnitude but also for their profound impact on the world.

Navigating the Seasons: Your Guide to Summer in Iceland

02/07/2024

We can officially say summer is here, but in general, summer happens in phases in Iceland. Our seasons are not typical: spring, summer, fall, and winter. Instead, we have the first day of summer, followed by the third winter, first spring, fourth winter, second spring, fifth winter, second spring again, false summer, sixth winter, sprummer (a mix of spring and summer), summer-ish, first fall, last summer, second fall, first winter, third fall, second winter, and third fall. Did you manage to follow our complicated season system? No worries, we don’t either!

17 Júní 2024, 80 years of independence!

12/06/2024

This year marks 80 years since Iceland officially gained it´s independence from Denmark, Icelander´s National Day, June 17, is celebrated every year to celebrate the establishment of a republic in this country in 1944. This day is also the birthday of Jón Sigurðsson (1811-1879), our very own independence hero. So, this day is very special for us in Iceland!