The best parties Iceland

One of the most important events of the year for Icelanders is the big sheep gathering. Riding their favourite horse, farmers set off in search of these animals scattered in the meadows or high pastures. This great gathering is a celebration in itself and visitors are welcome to lend their support. Some tour operators organize trips for this purpose... at a great price. It is best to contact local associations.

The first weekend in August is the Merchants' Day or Verslunarmannahelgi. During this long weekend (Monday is a holiday), Icelanders go camping in wild places and organize many parties, such as open-air rock festivals. Just ask the Icelanders about the good things to do in the area and join the locals in celebrating. A warm welcome guaranteed! Be careful, on this occasion, the shops are closed... organize yourself and plan your trip accordingly.

On Bolludagur (day of buns), the Icelandic Lent, bakeries and other shops sell rolls of all shapes (buns, in English), filled with cream, jam and sometimes covered with chocolate. This day is particularly popular with children, as they have to get up early to wake their parents by hitting them gently with a stick, nicknamed bun wand in Shakespeare's language. The parents then have to buy them as many creamy breads as they get hit.

In Siglufjörður and all over Iceland, herring fishing has been a great boon to the country's economy and its people. The herring fishery continued until it died out in the 1970s due to overfishing.

Every year, the town and its inhabitants pay tribute to this past with the herring festival. On this occasion, the locals organize a re-enactment of the herring cleaning and salting that is more real than life. Other festive events are organized such as dances, meals, concerts, etc. Continue your visit with a visit to the Herring Museum for example.

Did you know that? The town of Akranes was founded by two Irish brothers with Norwegian blood, Þormóður and Ketill Bresasonir. To pay tribute to the origins of the town, Irish Days commemorates their Celtic heritage every year. On the programme: games, dance, beer, Irish flags everywhere, and the competition for the reddest Icelander! The whole city is celebrating, with of course the heart of the festivities in the city centre. It's also an opportunity for locals to get together with friends and family in a friendly atmosphere