Iceland

Culture and Traditions in Iceland

Cultural events:

The cultural life in Iceland is concentrated mainly in its capital, Reykjavik. In the cathedral takes place a festival with numerous famous artists every year. Also several museums are located in the city relating to historical happenings and traditions of first settlers. In the Palace of Ice visitors will find the National Gallery of Contemporary Art. Also the Museum of Sculptures Asmundur Sveisson is located in the main city.

Every year in August the Reykjavík Cultural Night takes place. It is one of the days when museums, galleries, churches, and other establishments stay open in downtown Reykjavík till late night, offering a variety of events such as exhibitions, theatre, concerts and other cultural events. It is very usual that in Iceland festivities are celebrated with a variety of traditional dishes.

Traditions:

Festivities in Iceland are mostly accompanied with parades, theatre and dancing and traditional dishes. Almost in all festivities the food is an important element.

Icelandic Republic Day Festivity in June 17, held in Reykjavik to commemorate the declaration as republic in 1944. The day was chosen also to render honour to Jón Sigurðsson, one of the most important leaders in the campaign for independence. This is one of the greatest festivities celebrated in the whole country. In Reykjavik it is celebrated with street theaters, parades and dancing.

The First Day of Summer is celebrated with a lot of activities outdoors and sporting events.

A curiosity of one of the most popular festivities in Iceland is the Öskudagur or Ash Wednesday - is a special day for children. Children collect ashes in small bags and pin them secretly onto people's clothing. Also they go around streets and establishments begging for treats.