Iceland Airwaves 2023

Reykjavík, Iceland

Iceland Airwaves 2023: Iceland’s Hottest Music Festival 

The Iceland Airwaves is an annual multi-day music festival known for showcasing new talent from Iceland and around the world alongside established names in the music industry. The first event was held in 1999 in an airport hangar, and it has since gone a long way in carving a name for itself as an intimate music festival with an almost tangible party spirit. Past performers include Clap Your Hands Say Yeah, Bjork, Florence and the Machine, Fatboy Slim, Toro Y Moi, Junip, and Gold Panda. 

But before you think that this is just another music festival, think again.

‘The Iceland Airwaves is the perfect opportunity to indulge in local cuisine and craft beers, warm up in hot pools, and gaze at the Aurora Borealis while seeing live acts throughout town.’

It’s also a pretty surreal experience considering that it’s held during November, the time of year when Iceland gets the least hours of sunlight, so you get to go on a musical treasure hunt around Reykjavik even when the sun’s still up!

Iceland Airwaves Lineup 2023

It’s certainly a bragging right to have seen up-and-coming acts before the rest of the world does, and you get to do just that at the Iceland Airwaves. 

2023 Airwaves lineup to be announced soon.

facebooktwitterpinterest

Where to view Iceland Airwaves

Hundreds of performers will be performing at various locations throughout town including cafes, bars, and shops; all of which are within walking distance to one another. All official shows start at 7PM and end at 2AM, although the times may vary according to venue. Be sure to download the Iceland Airwaves festival app to stay updated with real-time information.

General and VIP tickets all include four-day passes to see the official shows.

How to get around Reykjavik

Most of the venues hosting bands and shows for the Iceland Airwaves will be within walking distance to one another. If you need to travel further, getting around by bus, motorcycle, and bicycle are efficient and affordable options.

Where to stay for Iceland Airwaves 

Reykjavik has several hip and elegant neighborhoods. Midborg, the downtown area, is stylish, colorful, and has lots of vibrant establishments. This is where you’ll find the most happening bars and cafes, as well as tons of galleries and museums.

Vesturbær is a quieter but upscale area, located west of the city center. It’s largely made up of residential areas, ideal for those looking for a more laid-back locale.

If you’re looking for something that’s outside the touristy areas, check out Austurborg. head to the map below for all the Airbnb’s and hotels near the venue or here for the best hotels in Reykjavik. 

facebooktwitterpinterest

Things to do in Reykjavik

Reykjavik’s music and art scene is renowned worldwide, and it also boasts of incredible historical and cultural experiences. Literally the world’s northernmost capital, despite its tiny population there are tons of fun experiences that await you. The dozens of swimming pools and saunas are an integral part of Icelandic culture, and a great way to relax while seeing what the locals to do unwind.

Make sure to set a few days aside to explore the city on foot. The central area is home to the primary shopping streets, where you’ll find stylish yet affordable fashion.

The food scene deserves a mention; don’t leave without trying skyr (Icelandic yogurt), slow roasted lamb, hot dogs, dried fish, and – if you’re brave – hakarl (fermented shark), a national dish and local delicacy.

Iceland Airwaves 2023 Dates

Iceland Airwaves will take place from November 2-4, 2023.