Go Iceland! Go Iceland!
This evening, if the streets seem unusually quiet around 19:30, it’s likely because the entire town is gathered around their screens, engrossed in the Iceland vs. Denmark semi-final handball match. You can bet that nearly every bar equipped with a screen will be broadcasting the game, while those without will tune in via radio. As a result, events like Víkan have been postponed, and DJ sets are rescheduled to later in the evening. Even if handball isn’t your passion, there’s not much happening during that hour, so why not join in and watch the game?
Once the match concludes, the night is far from over. Caritas will take the stage at Port 9, kicking off at 21:00. Meanwhile, leftovers, having just released his newest album, 100&ONE, is set to perform a free concert at Gamla Bíó. At Iðnó, the ninth edition of the concert series Sample will also begin at 21:00. This exciting lineup features Bjarni Daníel, Faroese rapper Maríus DC, DJ Flugvél & Geimskip, and DJ Kollz, promising an unforgettable night of music.
And for those looking ahead, don’t miss the annual Japan Festival, presented by students and faculty from the University of Iceland’s Bachelor’s in Japanese Language & Culture. Kicking off at 13:00 tomorrow, the festival will include a film screening, a Manga workshop, a Karate demonstration, and so much more.
Hoping to uncover more happenings? Just scroll down. If you have an event to share, add it to the calendar at events.grapevine.is, or check there for what’s on around town.
Dark Music Days 2026
January 29 to February 1 — Multiple locations — Ticket information at darkmusicdays.is
As winter casts its long shadow over Iceland, Dark Music Days emerges as a beacon of solace and creativity. This annual festival presents a rich array of experimental commissioned works, unique performances, and innovative collaborations. Visitors can indulge in a sound bath and engage in a music workshop for children, explore an interactive computer game developed by Steinunn Hardardóttir featuring musical elements, and witness a performance titled “How to Ruin Someone’s Career as a Violist.” While these three events are free to attend, festival passes are available for those who want to experience the full spectrum of offerings.
Group Exhibition — Affinities of Form
Friday, January 30 — 17:00 — National Gallery of Iceland — Free entry
The exhibition, modestly titled Affinities of Form: Artistic Convergences in Iceland since 1970, showcases an extensive and captivating portrait of conceptual art in Iceland. Curated by Gavin Morrison in partnership with National Gallery curator Pari Stave, this multimedia and multinational exhibition weaves together works deeply inspired by Iceland’s stark and textured landscapes, reflecting a profound admiration for its natural beauty. Simultaneously, the opening of the exhibition Architecture of Place promises to make this a remarkable double feature worth exploring.
ISH
Songwriter: Salka Valsdóttir
Saturday, January 31 — 20:00 — Salurinn — Tickets starting at 6,500 ISK
Salka Valsdóttir, known for her work in the duo CYBER and the ensemble Reykjavíkurdætur, is returning for her first solo concert in over two years. Joined by saxophonist Tumi Árnason and renowned thereminist Hekla Magnúsdóttir, Salka will perform her latest compositions while sharing insights into her creative process. This concert is part of the Söngvaskáld series, which provides singer-songwriters with a platform to discuss their work while captivating audiences.
Khairkhan: Concert And Lecture
Sunday, February 1 — 13:00 — City Library (Grófin) — Free entry
Join Khairkhan, an Inner Mongolian musician from the Khorqin Tribe now residing in Reykjavík, as he introduces the fascinating world of Mongolian instruments like the morin khuur, tsuur, and tovshuur. The event will also offer a unique opportunity to learn the fundamentals of Mongolian throat singing. This engaging experience is open to everyone and free to attend!
It’s The Reykjavík Grapevine Music Awards!
Thursday, February 5 — 20:00 — Lemmy — Free entry
The time has come to celebrate! If you haven’t yet explored the nominees for the Reykjavík Grapevine Music Awards, you might want to take a moment to review them before placing your bets among friends. Mark your calendars for Thursday at 20:00 at Lemmy, where we’ll honor the talented musicians who made waves in the past year. Rumor has it that a few award-winning artists may surprise us with impromptu performances—and there’s talk of free beer too!
