Reykjavik celebrates Culture Night with nearly 400 events and festival activities

Reykjavik is hosting its annual Culture Night today, celebrating 238 years since the city was granted town rights. The event features nearly 400 activities scheduled from morning until midnight, with a focus on limiting traffic in the city center to ensure safety as thousands flock to the area.

Street closures began at 7 AM this morning, transforming the downtown area into a pedestrian zone. Visitors are encouraged to walk, bike, or use public transport, while drivers are advised to park at designated areas like Borgartún and Laugardalur, where free shuttles are available to and from the festival site.

In coordination with electric scooter companies, the maximum speed for scooters will be reduced in the city center during Culture Night. The festival officially kicks off at noon, although many events start earlier, including the Reykjavik Marathon, which will see runners starting before 9 AM, making their presence felt throughout the day.

Culture Night encompasses a wide area, featuring locations in downtown Reykjavik, Lönguhlíð in the East, Hagatorg in the West, and extending to Grandi. The evening will conclude with a fireworks display at 11 PM after a large concert event, Tónaflóð, at Arnarhóll.

As the festivities wrap up, attendees are directed to all lines of Reykjavik’s public transport, which will operate free of charge to neighborhoods across the capital until 12:30 AM.