National Day Celebration

About

Iceland's National Day celebration on June 17th transforms downtown Reykjavik into a vibrant festival of Icelandic culture, pride, and family fun. Kids will love the colorful parades featuring marching bands, traditional costumes, and dancing in the streets, while parents appreciate the wholesome, community atmosphere that welcomes visitors to join in Iceland's independence festivities. This is a rare opportunity for traveling families to experience authentic Icelandic culture and celebrations alongside locals in one of the world's most unique capital cities.

What to Expect

Families can expect a full day of outdoor festivities throughout downtown Reykjavik, centered around Arnarhóll hill and along the main shopping street Laugavegur. The day typically begins with a ceremonial parade featuring Fjallkonan (the Woman of the Mountain), followed by speeches, choir performances, and street entertainment. Children will find carnival rides, face painting, outdoor concerts, traditional Icelandic games, and street performers throughout the city center. The atmosphere is joyful and family-oriented, with Icelanders dressed in traditional national costumes or wearing the colors of the flag. Despite being a patriotic celebration, visitors are warmly welcomed to participate in all activities.

Highlights for Kids

• Watching the colorful ceremonial parade featuring Fjallkonan in traditional Icelandic dress, marching bands, and performers in folk costumes
• Participating in traditional Icelandic children's games and activities set up throughout downtown streets
• Enjoying carnival rides and fairground attractions set up especially for the celebration
• Listening to live music performances ranging from children's choirs to contemporary Icelandic bands
• Experiencing nearly 24 hours of daylight, with festivities continuing into the bright evening hours

Pro Tips for Families

1. Dress in layers and bring waterproof jackets regardless of forecast—Reykjavik weather can change quickly, even in June, though you'll benefit from nearly 24 hours of daylight at this time of year
2. Arrive at Arnarhóll by 10:00 AM to secure a good viewing spot for the ceremonial parade and opening ceremonies, which typically begin around 10:30-11:00 AM
3. Learn a few Icelandic phrases like 'Gleðilegan þjóðhátíðardag' (Happy National Day) to connect with locals—Icelanders appreciate visitors who show interest in their culture and language
4. Many shops and restaurants close or have reduced hours on June 17th, so plan accordingly and consider packing snacks and water, though street vendors will be plentiful in the festival areas

Best Time to Visit

Arrive in the late morning (10:00-11:00 AM) to catch the ceremonial parade and opening festivities at Arnarhóll, which sets the tone for the day. The afternoon (1:00-4:00 PM) offers the most diverse activities with street performances, carnival rides, and concerts in full swing. Families with younger children might prefer the morning and early afternoon hours, while those with older kids can enjoy entertainment that continues well into the evening, taking advantage of Iceland's midnight sun.

Food & Drinks

Street vendors and food trucks appear throughout downtown Reykjavik offering both traditional Icelandic treats (like kleinur pastries, pylsur hot dogs, and skyr desserts) and international festival food. Many cafes along Laugavegur remain open with kid-friendly options like pizza, burgers, and fish and chips. Be prepared for higher prices than typical festival food in other countries—budget about 1,500-2,000 ISK ($11-15 USD) per person for casual meals. The famous Bæjarins Beztu pylsur hot dog stand near the harbor is an iconic Icelandic experience. Bring refillable water bottles as Icelandic tap water is excellent and free at public fountains.

Parking & Access

Downtown Reykjavik's compact center is best explored on foot, and many streets are closed to vehicles during National Day festivities. If driving, park in outer residential areas (free on June 17th as it's a public holiday) and walk 10-15 minutes to the center, or use parking garages like Kolaportið or Stjörnuport (expect fees of 200-400 ISK per hour). Better yet, take advantage of Reykjavik's excellent bus system or walk from your accommodation if staying centrally. The flat, pedestrian-friendly streets are very stroller-accessible, though crowds can be dense during peak parade times. Taxis and ride-shares may be difficult to find during the event.