Iceland review - 2014, Qupperneq 85

ICELAND REVIEW 83
Culture and Spa
Start your perfect day in Reykjavík by experiencing pure thermal
energy at one of the city’s many pools and spas. Not only ben-
eficial for mind and body, they are an essential part of the city’s
culture. Swim a few laps in the crystal clear water, soak in a hot pot
or indulge in a steam bath and you will leave feeling relaxed and
energized. Nauthólsvík geothermal beach is ideal for sunbathing in
summer and sea bathing in winter.
Reykjavík is a cultural hot spot, so get inspired by its many mu-
seums, art galleries and design shops. Its vibrant music scene is
world renowned, and designated as a UNESCO City of Literature,
in Reykjavík you’ll discover a treasure of literary works. Come eve-
ning, why not go see a play at the city’s many theaters or attend
a concert, perhaps at Reykjavík’s new concert hall and conference
center Harpa, a true architectural marvel.
exCiTinG eVenTs And fesTiVAls
Further adding to Reykjavík’s flourishing cultural life are its numer-
ous festivals and events catering to the entire family.
Culture Night takes place in late August, with all kinds of cultural
events popping up around the city, concluding with an outdoor
concert and a spectacular firework display. On the same day, the
annual Reykjavík Marathon attracts runners from all over the world.
RIFF, the Reykjavik International Film Festival, takes place every
year in late September for 11 days, screening a wide range of
dramas and non-fiction films from over 40 countries. RIFF high-
lights independent film making from all over the world with an
emphasis on up-and-coming filmmakers.
Over a long weekend in late October, early November, Iceland
Airwaves is a world-class music festival, featuring local as well as
international acts.
In January, the seventh Reykjavík International Games welcome
sports participants to a multisport competition in Laugardalur.
In late February, the Food and Fun festival combines excellent
Icelandic ingredients, world class culinary skills and Reykjavík’s
legendary nightlife.
As its name indicates, DesignMarch takes place in March, pre-
senting all the latest and the greatest on the Icelandic design
scene, with events and exhibitions all across the city.
Last but not least, lighting up the city’s darkest days, the Reyk-
javík Winter Lights Festival has been held in early February since
2002. Offering a variety of events, large and small, the festival
invites the people of Reykjavík and its guests a chance to par-
ticipate in a varied program, free of charge. The events include
Museum Night, Children’s World Day and Thermal Pool Night.

all year round, Iceland’s vibrant capital, Reykjavík, offers a wide variety of
festivals and cultural activities.
CONVENTIONs