Imagine Peace Tower 2024 in Reykjavik

First installed in 2007, the Imagine Peace Tower remains an inspiring landmark on Reykjavik's horizon. An initiative of Yoko Ono, the installation serves both as a tribute to the artist's husband, John Lennon, and as a call for peace. The tower is designed to resemble a well built out of white concrete stone walls, which are inscribed with the words "Imagine Peace" in 24 languages. Thousands of written wishes are buried under the installation. At certain times of the year, residents and guests of Reykjavik witness majestic blue light emitting from the tower.

Dates

This magical wishing well lights up several times throughout the year. The tower projects a vibrant blue light into the Icelandic sky on October 9th, John Lennon's birthday, and continues to shine through December 8th, the day of his death. It reappears during the winter solstice through New Year's Eve, from December 21st until December 31st. The tower illuminates the sky once again on February 18th, Yoko Ono's birthday, and makes a welcome appearance during Spring Equinox, from March 20th to March 27th. March 20th also marks the anniversary of John Lennon and Yoko Ono's marriage.

Schedule

The tower traditionally lights up one hour after sunset and is on until midnight. The spectacle begins at approximately 8 pm on October 9th and at 9 pm in March. On John Lennon's and Yoko Ono's birthdays, October 9th and February 18th, and on New Year's Eve, the beam is on throughout the entire night, until sunrise.

Location on Viðey Island

The Imagine Peace Tower is situated on the Viðey Island, the largest island of the Kollafjörður Bay. Covering an area of 0.7 square miles (1.7 sq km), the island serves as a natural oasis amidst the hustle and bustle of the capital. This hidden nook is largely uninhabited and boasts beautiful mountainous landscapes as well as a large population of birds. More than 30 species grew fond of nesting on the island. The light installation is located in the western part of the Viðey Island.

Transportation

The ferry from Reykjavik to Viðey Island departs from the city's Old Harbour and Skarfabakki pier. The ships cruise regularly during the summer, starting from May 15th at the pier, followed by June 1st at the Old Harbour. From September 1st until May 14th, the ferries are only available on Saturdays and Sundays from Skarfabakki pier.

During the summer season, the ships depart every hour from the pier, from 10:15 am until 5:15 pm. Old Harbour offers only two departures during the summer, at 11:50 am and 2:50 pm. Skarfabakki pier provides three departures during the winter season, at 1:15 pm, 2:15 pm, and 3:15 pm.

Ferry Tickets

Ticket prices stay the same year-round. Tickets cost 2,300 Icelandic Króna for adults, 1,150 Icelandic Króna for children between 7 and 17 years old, and are completely free for children under three years old. Students and seniors can purchase a ticket for 2,070 Icelandic Króna.

Best Places to See Imagine Peace Light

Because of its convenient location on an island outside the city, the blue beam of Imagine Peace Tower is clearly visible from most of Reykjavik. If you;d like to witness the lights from the city itself, consider going down to the seaside, mainly the Reykjavík Cruise Terminal, Skarfagarður Lighthouse, or the Laugarnes district. All of these spots offer their own scenic views but also serve as great outlook stops for the Imagine Peace Tower. To witness the light up close, consider joining an Imagine Peace Tower tour, organized by local tour operators.