Icelandic National Day 2025 in Reykjavik

Since Iceland's establishment as an independent republic in 1944, Icelanders have been commemorating this event with raucous celebrations, parades, traditional ceremonies, and block parties. The event is considered a public holiday in the country, with the community gathering together at the park or the city center. Some choose to enjoy a picnic, while others go on a spontaneous getaway to towns near the capital, all of which host Independence parades and celebrations.

Customs & Traditions

Celebrated across the entire country, Icelandic National Day traditionally involves formal parades throughout the cities with participating cavalry on Icelandic horses, followed by scouts with flags. Afterward, the cities host speech ceremonies, during which members of local authorities congratulate the country on another year of independence. A notable addition is the speech of the Lady of the Mountain ( Fjallkonan), who is a national personification of Iceland. Music performances, contests, food offerings, and more begin after the traditional ceremonies.

Where to Celebrate the National Day of Iceland in Reykjavik

Reykjavik goes all out for the nation's Independence Day and hosts numerous celebrations throughout the capital. Swing by the city centre to enjoy traditional ceremonies and family-friendly festivities or witness a car show at the Hljóskálagarður park. Towns near Reykjavik also hold unique celebrations, which serve as perfect opportunities to experience Independence Day in the capital's suburbs. Explore the nearby towns of Seltjarnarnes and Kópavogur, both with its unique set of cultural celebrations.

Morning Ceremony at Austurvöllur Park

Every year, a traditional ceremony takes place in the Austurvöllur Park, gathering hundreds of Reykjavik's residents and guests of the city. During the event, President and Prime Minister of Iceland lay wreaths on the monument of Jón Sigurðsson, the leader of the Icelandic independence movement.

While the members of the scouts ceremonially stand aside, the President, Prime Minister, and President of the City Council face the crowd with congratulatory speeches. Lady of the Mountains also appears, embodying the independent spirit and soul of the country. The ceremony normally spans around an hour, from 11:10 am until 12:10 pm.

National Day Parade from Austurvöllur to Hólavallakirkjugarður

Laying of wreaths on the memorials of Ingibjörg Sólrún Gísladóttir and Jón Sigurðsson is an annual tradition in the capital. Besides the President, the President of the City Council, and the Prime Minister, the new graduates of the Reykjavík College of Music and Commercial College of Iceland also put wreaths. The route begins at Austurvöllur and stops at the Hólavallakirkjugarður cemetery. The parade is usually set to begin at 11:40 am and ends at approximately 12:10 pm.

June 17th Parade

Later in the day, another, less formal, parade takes place in the city center. With hundreds of participants, all adorning vibrant costumes, Icelandic flags, or riding on decorated vehicles with red, blue, and white adornments, the parade is one of the biggest National Day celebrations. Many Icelanders choose to get creative and even create entire sculptures for the parade. The procession sets off from Hallgrímskirkja church and stops at Hljómskálagarður park. The festivities span from 1 pm until 1:40 pm.

Icelandic National Day in Hljómskálagarður Park

Following the National Day parade, the celebration moves to Hljómskálagarður park, boasting a beautiful pond and an open area for a variety of attractions. A free event for an entire family, Icelandic National Day at Hljómskálagarður Park numerous music performances, inflatables, obstacle courses, circus performances, and of course, street vendors. The event usually spans from 1 pm until 5 pm.

Other Events

To get away from the crowds, consider visiting Knattspyrnufélag Reykjavíkur football club, which will host a festive carnival featuring bouncy castles, face painting, cake contests, and many other fun events. The carnival usually spans from 10 am until 1 pm. Klambratún Park is another popular location on Icelandic National Day. While there, you can enjoy many delicious food offerings, dance and music performances, and child-friendly activities.