26 Must-See Festivals in Iceland

Sync your travel plans with the vibrant pulse of Icelandic culture by exploring this guide to 25 of the country’s most captivating festivals. These events reflect the diverse tapestry of Icelandic life, providing visitors with opportunities to immerse themselves in music, heritage, and seasonal celebrations throughout the year.

The majority of Iceland’s festivals bloom during the warmer months, when the days stretch long and communities spring to life with outdoor concerts, bustling markets, and vibrant parades. Savvy travelers can design their itineraries around these jubilant events, opting for curated vacation packages that seamlessly integrate with day tours across Iceland, making the most of their festival experience.

Conversely, winter festivals shine a light on cherished culinary traditions and folklore, transforming the darker months into a celebration of sounds, tastes, and city-wide merriment. Travelers venturing during the colder seasoin can indulge in rich cultural experiences and seize the chance to book northern lights tours, particularly accessible from major towns.

If your visit falls in early November, be sure to catch Iceland Airwaves, one of the nation’s premier music festivals. Reykjavik becomes a stage for both local and international artists, filling the city with melodies in venues across its vibrant fabric. Booking an Iceland Airwaves vacation package promises a hassle-free way to explore during this exciting period, offering curated experiences tailored to the season.

This comprehensive list will help you align your travel dates with exciting events, delve into the various festivals dotted across the country, and create an itinerary that surpasses typical sightseeing, opening the door to authentic Icelandic experiences.

Facts About Festivals in Iceland

• Iceland boasts a calendar bursting with festivals year-round, celebrating music, arts, food, and traditional cultural heritage.

• While Reykjavik stands as a festival epicenter—home to significant events like Iceland Airwaves and the Reykjavik Arts Festival—numerous towns showcase their unique local festivals.

• Summer is the peak festival season, thanks to the enchanting midnight sun and pleasant weather.

• Many festivals provide breathtaking views of Iceland’s stunning natural landscapes, often set in picturesque locations or featuring outdoor activities.

Top 5 Music Festivals in Iceland

Iceland is home to a wealth of internationally-renowned artists like Björk, Sigur Rós, Laufey, and Of Monsters and Men. The country’s rich culture and captivating landscapes have inspired a plethora of music festivals, each presenting a unique experience. From the cozy Braedslan Festival in the East to the energetic Iceland Airwaves in Reykjavik, these gatherings celebrate both local talent and global acts, catering to every taste—be it jazz, indie, metal, or electronic.

Here are our top picks for music festivals!

5. Reykjavik Jazz Festival

Founded in 1990, the Reykjavik Jazz Festival is Iceland’s second-longest-running music festival, held annually in August. This lively event features a rich array of jazz styles—from bebop to big band and avant-garde—performed by esteemed international musicians alongside emerging Icelandic talents. With an emphasis on local musicians, the festival serves as a window into Iceland’s vibrant jazz scene.

Different venues—from intimate clubs to larger concert halls—host the festival, appealing to both devoted jazz fans and casual listeners alike.

4. Eistnaflug Metal Festival

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CM0OCPwsDS8

Every July, the peaceful town of Neskaupstadur morphs into a sanctuary for heavy metal enthusiasts during the Eistnaflug Metal Festival. This high-octane event has become a pilgrimage for metal fans worldwide, featuring everything from thrash and death metal to punk and rock, showcasing a lineup as diverse as it is loud. Eistnaflug invites concertgoers to revel in the heavy riffs and embrace festival chaos.

Despite its intensity, Eistnaflug is celebrated for its welcoming and inclusive atmosphere, creating a community where fans of all backgrounds come together, making the small town’s atmosphere even more surreal.

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3. Braedslan Music Festival

Nestled about two hours from Neskaupstadur, Borgarfjordur Eystri, a quaint fishing village in East Iceland, is the host of Braedslan, held in late July. Here, world-renowned bands perform inside an old herring shed, creating an unforgettable atmosphere.

The venue’s intimate capacity means tickets are limited; since its debut in 2005, Braedslan has showcased celebrated artists including Belle and Sebastian, Emiliana Torrini, Damien Rice, and Of Monsters and Men, providing a remarkable opportunity to witness such talent in a uniquely Icelandic setting.

2. Aldrei For Eg Sudur

Aldrei For Eg Sudur, held during the Easter weekend in Isafjordur, the unofficial capital of the Westfjords, has been delighting attendees since 2004. This festival, initiated by local musician Mugison and his father, celebrates eclectic music alongside community spirit.

The festival’s quirky name, which translates to “I Never Went South,” mirrors the local pride of Isafjordur. Musicians volunteer their time and talents, fostering a sense of community that elevates the experience. With no admission charge, Aldrei For Eg Sudur centers around the enthusiastic audience, where the collective spirit complements the music.

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1. Iceland Airwaves

The Iceland Airwaves music festival, hosted annually in Reykjavik each November, is a hallmark of the Icelandic cultural landscape. The event takes its name from its inaugural show back in 1999, held at a hangar in the local airport.

Since then, it has blossomed into one of the country’s most anticipated music festivals, attracting a mix of international stars and hidden gems, spotlighting both Icelandic and global talent. Celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2024, Iceland Airwaves solidifies its significance within the Icelandic music sphere.

What makes Iceland Airwaves particularly remarkable is its comprehensive program, which includes a plethora of side events scattered throughout Reykjavik. As Iryna Zubenko aptly noted, “The Airwaves program is so extensive that you can either meticulously plan your schedule or simply go with the flow.”

This variety guarantees a bit of something for everyone, whether you favor a detailed itinerary or a spontaneous approach to your travels. With venues ranging from grand concert halls to intimate bars and churches, past performers have included the likes of Björk, Kaiser Chiefs, Vampire Weekend, and Sigur Rós, making Iceland Airwaves an exceptional blend of nostalgia and discovery for music aficionados. Widely regarded as “the biggest party in Reykjavik,” this festival is an essential introduction to Iceland’s music scene.

Top 5 Art & Culture Festivals in Iceland

Reykjavik shines as a cultural beacon, hosting festivals that showcase music, theater, visual arts, and more. With local and international talent on display, these events provide a rich immersion into the city’s vibrant artistic landscape. Consider pairing your Reykjavik adventure with these remarkable festivals for an unforgettable experience.

5. Reykjavik Food & Fun Festival

If you’re a culinary enthusiast with an appetite for adventure, mark February on your calendar for the Reykjavik Food and Fun Festival. This gastronomic extravaganza unites acclaimed chefs from around the globe with local talent, curating unforgettable dining experiences around fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.

For one week, these chefs team up with top restaurants to design unique, fixed-price menus, showcasing the best of Iceland’s distinctive flavors. When combined with Reykjavik’s lively nightlife, this festival becomes an event that’s as much about revelry as it is about culinary delight.

Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or simply eager to explore new tastes, Food and Fun offers an ideal way to experience Reykjavik via your palate.

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4. Reykjavik Arts Festival

Established in 1970, the Reykjavik Arts Festival is a prestigious biennial event that spans two weeks every May or June. It features an impressive array of music, theater, dance, visual arts, film, and literature, fostering collaboration between local and international artists while bridging generations of creative talent.

This esteemed festival has seen iconic figures like Patti Smith, Ingmar Bergman, Led Zeppelin, and Laurie Anderson grace its stages, showcasing innovative and thought-provoking works to a diverse audience.

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3. Reykjavik Fringe Festival

The Reykjavik Fringe Festival, celebrated each midsummer, is a dynamic showcase of unconventional art. Inaugurated in 2018, this festival collaborates with similar gatherings across the Nordic region to highlight diverse forms of art and performance, ranging from dance and stand-up comedy to kids’ shows and circus acts.

The Reykjavik Fringe Festival promises a creative lineup of eclectic performances, ensuring that every visitor finds something delightful to enjoy.

2. Reykjavik International Film Festival (RIFF)

The Reykjavik International Film Festival (RIFF) stands as one of Iceland’s largest and most diverse cultural showcases, occurring annually from late September to mid-October. Over the course of 11 days, the festival presents a broad array of dramas and documentaries hailing from around the globe.

Screenings typically take place at Reykjavik’s arthouse cinema, Bio Paradis, but RiFF is renowned for its creative venues, having hosted films in unique locations like swimming pools and lava tunnels, adding an element of intrigue to the viewing experience.

1. Reykjavik Culture Night (Menningarnott)

Since its inception in 1996, Culture Night, or “Menningarnótt,” has become one of Reykjavik’s most cherished festivals, typically falling on the first Saturday following August 18th. Attracting around 100,000 participants, this vibrant event animates the city center with concerts, performances, and exhibitions.

Highlights include an outdoor concert spotlighting top Icelandic musicians and a stunning fireworks display. Reykjavik’s Culture Night transforms the capital into a revelrous hub, inviting both residents and tourists alike into a truly immersive city experience.

Special Mention: Iceland Eclipse 2026 (Secret Solstice 2026)

The Secret Solstice Festival has long been one of Iceland’s most distinctive music gatherings, celebrating culture and sound beneath the radiant midnight sun. Traditionally held each June in Reykjavik during the summer solstice, it offered unforgettable experiences with unique “Side Quests,” such as parties inside Langjokull Glacier and performances in the Raufarholshellir Lava Tunnel.

After a hiatus during the pandemic, this incredible festivity is returning with a fresh twist. In 2026, Secret Solstice will reemerge as the Iceland Eclipse Festival, commemorating the rare total solar eclipse set to occur on August 12. 

This exclusive four-day festival will take place on the stunning Snaefellsnes Peninsula, where attendees can witness the landscape plunge into darkness for two extraordinary minutes. With its stage nestled at the base of Snaefellsjokull Glacier, overlooking the North Atlantic Ocean, it promises an unforgettable spectacle.

During the event, shuttles will whisk attendees to nearby natural highlights, including Saxholl Crater, Vatnshellir Cave, and Svodufoss Waterfall, allowing exploration between performances. Optional Side Quests will also offer once-in-a-lifetime experiences, such as an acoustic show inside Vatnshellir Lava Cave. For an extra enriching trip, consider guided solar eclipse tours in Iceland, which provide immersive experiences centered around this celestial wonder.

Top 5 Merchants Weekend Festivals

The Merchants’ Weekend, or “Verslunarmannahelgi,” is Iceland’s most celebrated banking holiday, taking place on the first weekend of August. This event pays tribute to the nation’s industrious tradespeople, filling the days with lively festivities throughout the country.

Towns across Iceland come alive with vibrant celebrations, often centered around camping, music, and a sense of community. It’s the ultimate chance for locals and visitors alike to dive into the heart and soul of Icelandic culture. Here are some of the unmissable Merchants’ Weekend festivals:

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5. Ein Med Ollu

Ein Med Ollu, which translates to “One with Everything”—the Icelandic phrase used when ordering a hot dog with all the fixings—is a lively, family-friendly event that features everything you’d expect from a Merchants’ Weekend festival.

Set over three days in Akureyri, Iceland’s unofficial northern capital, this festival promises concerts, sports competitions, farmers’ markets, and much more. One of the more popular celebrations of the weekend, it draws visitors from across the nation eager to experience its unique blend of local culture and entertainment.

With stunning landscapes cradling Akureyri, nestled between dramatic mountains at the base of scenic Eyjafjordur, you may find yourself tempted to extend your stay.

4. Nordanpaunk

If you’re seeking a grittier experience this Merchants’ Weekend, Nordanpaunk offers an edgier vibe. Hosted in the small village of Laugarbakki, this punk festival embraces a raw, DIY ethos, catering to those who appreciate hard-hitting music and a rebellious spirit. Often described as a gathering for “difficult people” who crave “difficult music,” the festival encourages attendees to actively engage in its creation.

Despite its rough-around-the-edges charm, Nordanpaunk is renowned for its welcoming and safe environment, making it an unforgettable experience for those in search of something different.

3. Sildaraevintyrid

Sildaraevintyrid, or The Herring Adventure, unfolds in Siglufjordur, a picturesque town in northern Iceland known for its flourishing herring industry during the 20th century. This festival pays homage to that vibrant past, allowing visitors to delve into the local culture at the Herring Era Museum.

A family-friendly affair, the festival fosters community spirit as locals gather to share their town’s offerings, providing everything from accordion music to foam parties and plenty of delicious seafood.

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2. Innipukinn

If the great outdoors isn’t your scene, Innipukinn (The Homebody) is the festival for you. Tailored for those who prefer the cozy comforts of indoor venues, this music festival takes place in trendy spots around Reykjavik, all within an easy stroll of one another.

As many locals venture out of town for the weekend, Innipukinn becomes the heartbeat of downtown Reykjavik. With nearby accommodations, it offers a chance to kick back in between performances, making it the perfect urban festivity.

1. Thjodhatid

The Thjodhatid (Þjóðhátíð) festival, held on the Westman Islands, stands as the pièce de résistance of Merchants’ Weekend and ranks among Iceland’s largest cultural celebrations. During this festival, the islands’ population swells as it’s the most anticipated gathering of the year.

Its inception dates back to 1874 when the Westman Islands’ residents were unable to partake in the mainland’s millennium celebrations. Thjodhatid has since evolved into the largest multi-day festival in Iceland, with festivities centered in a grand valley where concerts and events take place.

Prepare for a weekend featuring enormous bonfires on Friday, fireworks lighting up the Saturday sky, and a community sing-along of beloved Icelandic classics on Sunday, where locals gather under white tents to feast on smoked puffin, strumming guitars, and celebrating.

As the festivities unfold, the island’s rugged beauty and wildlife create a breathtaking backdrop.

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Top 5 Regional Festivals

Throughout the year, Iceland’s towns and villages host an array of country fairs and smaller festivals that highlight the nation’s rich cultural heritage. These gatherings foster community spirit, celebrating local customs, live entertainment, and authentic flavors. Here are some of Iceland’s enchanting, lesser-known festivals:

5. French Days in Faskrudsfjordur

The French Days in Faskrudsfjordur is a multi-day celebration occurring on the third weekend of July. This festival honors the town’s historical ties to French fishermen who once settled in the area, leaving an enduring cultural influence.

The festivities merge French and Icelandic traditions, with petanque (French boules) taking center stage. French Days typically kick off on Friday night with a cozy bonfire, but the schedule has expanded, now beginning on the third Wednesday of July.

While you’re in the area, don’t miss the chance to visit the French Museum, which shares the town’s storied past, or take a short drive to view Petra’s Stone and Mineral Collection in nearby Stodvarfjordur—a must-see for rock enthusiasts.

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4. Danish Days in Stykkisholmur

The coastal town of Stykkisholmur on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula was a vital commercial hub during Iceland’s era of Danish governance. The Danish influence ran so deep that, legend has it, locals spoke only Danish on Sundays.

Every July, Danish Days celebrates this heritage, marking a four-day extravaganza where the Danish flag is raised high and the streets temporarily renamed in homage to the occasion.

Activities are translated into Danish names and aim to resonate with all ages, culminating in an energetic dance on Sunday evening.

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3. The Folk Song Festival in North Iceland

The Folk Song Festival, hosted annually in Siglufjordur during the first week of July, is a colorful celebration of folk music heritage. Set in one of Iceland’s most northern towns, the festival brings together Icelandic and international folk traditions through nearly 20 concerts spread throughout the town, creating an intimate and unique music experience.

Founded in 2000, this festival has become integral to Siglufjordur’s cultural calendar, offering diverse courses in music, crafts, and drama for all ages. The aptly-named Folk Song Academy is accessible to the public, providing free music and drama courses for children, ensuring the festival is family-friendly.

With ample accommodation options, Siglufjordur serves as a perfect base to experience the Folk Song Festival while also exploring its scenic hiking trails and stunning landscapes.

2. Irish Days in Akranes

Akranes, believed to have been settled by Irish explorers around 880, celebrates this heritage during the lively Irish Days festival every July. The town decks itself in Irish flags, creating a unique blend of Icelandic and Irish traditions. Among the myriad activities, visitors can participate in the whimsical annual contest to crown Iceland’s most red-headed resident, playfully nodding to Akranes’ supposed Irish ancestry.

1. The Lobster Festival in Hofn

Hofn, the lobster capital of Iceland, throws an epic seafood bash every June with its renowned Lobster Festival. For over three decades, locals have served up succulent, buttery langoustine, infusing the air with irresistible aromas of garlic and lemon.

Festival-goers can savor an array of lobster dishes prepared by local chefs as they enjoy concerts, sports events, and a variety of festivities. If you find yourself exploring the nearby Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon or its stunning surroundings in late June, don’t miss this mouthwatering celebration.

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Top 5 Seasonal Festivals & Events

Iceland’s festivals and seasonal celebrations are woven deeply into the fabric of its cultural identity, offering captivating insights into local traditions and histories. These events, which span the entirety of the year, echo Iceland’s connection to nature, community, and its Viking roots, often revolving around local customs and culinary delights. Whether embracing the chill of winter or the warmth of summer, these traditions unite people in distinctive, meaningful ways.

5. First Day of Summer (Sumardagurinn Fyrsti)

The Sumardagurinn fyrsti, or the First Day of Summer, is an official holiday in Iceland, celebrated on the first Thursday after April 18th. This day marks the hopeful arrival of summer, even if the weather might not fully comply, often lingering in chilliness. Yet, it’s more about optimism and the joy of transition from winter to summer.

Festivities unfold nationwide, featuring parades, games, and outdoor celebrations. Reykjavik, in particular, springs to life with colorful processions, music, and dancing. Communities gather in parks for picnics and friendly competitions, rejoicing in the arrival of the warmer days—no matter how fleeting they may be.

In rural areas, towns host their own parades and traditional events, sometimes involving local competitions or shows. Whether in the bustling capital or scenic countryside, Sumardagurinn fyrsti stands as a testament to community spirit and the collective joy of embracing summer.

4. Thorrablot (Þorrablót)

Thorrablot, or Þorrablót, is a cherished midwinter festival held during Þorri, an ancient month in the Icelandic calendar, usually from late January to late February. Since the 19th century, this tradition has invited locals and travelers alike to partake in Icelandic culture through a bold feast.

The heart of the celebration lies in the enjoyment of traditional dishes, known as porramatur. These culinary delights may challenge the palate of the uninitiated but are essential to Iceland’s heritage, including fermented shark (hákarl), dried fish, and sour ram’s head. 

While these foods may seem daunting at first, they offer a rare chance to experience Iceland’s resilient history, which has been shaped by the necessity of preserving food through long winter months. Thorrablot is an ideal opportunity for adventurous eaters to push their culinary limits and genuinely embrace Icelandic pride.

3. Winter Lights Festival

The Winter Lights Festival in Reykjavik, celebrated every February, serves as a joyful antidote to the longer, darker months. The city bursts into life with dazzling light installations, art exhibits, and cultural performances.

The festival’s highlight is the stunning light displays that transform landmarks and public spaces into breathtaking spectacles, featuring the creativity of local and international artists. Beyond the light displays, the festival showcases a range of theatrical performances, concerts, and activities for audiences of all ages, all while emphasizing Icelandic culture and traditions.

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2. Bolludagur (Bun Day)

Bolludagur, or Bun Day, celebrates the Monday prior to Ash Wednesday, marking a playful pre-Lenten festivity reminiscent of Mardi Gras traditions seen in other cultures. It centers around indulgence and the enjoyment of sweet treats.

The day’s spotlight is on bolla, delightful sweet cream-filled buns adorned with vibrant icing or melted chocolate. Children, in a delightful twist, will often ask their parents for buns in exchange for completing small tasks or performing little acts of entertainment.

This tradition boasts deep roots in Icelandic culture, but today it’s embraced as a lighthearted occasion, with bakeries nationwide preparing special batches of delicious buns. If you find yourself in Reykjavik or elsewhere in Iceland during Bolludagur, seize the day to sample these irresistible pastries and, if you’re feeling adventurous, try your luck asking someone for a bolla too!

1. Iceland Viking Festival

Step back into history at the Viking Festival in Hafnarfjordur, held each June. This community celebration pays homage to Iceland’s rich Viking heritage through reenactments, music, and immersive experiences designed for history enthusiasts and adventurers alike.

Explore a bustling marketplace brimming with handmade crafts, antique weapons, and delicious Viking-inspired cuisine, or engage in traditional games that evoke the past. With expert demonstrations and hands-on workshops covering ancient crafts, such as sword-making or weaving, the Viking Festival offers an engaging way for visitors to connect with Iceland’s storied history.

All Festivals in Iceland

Iceland is alive with festivals year-round, each offering a unique slice of cultural experience. While we’ve explored some of the premier celebrations earlier, countless others await your discovery.

Here’s an overview of festivals scattered across Iceland—whatever your interests may be, there’s a festival waiting for you.

Packages for Your Festival Trip to Iceland

Numerous delightful activities accompany your festival attendance in and around Reykjavik. Explore highly-rated vacation packages that combine all you need for an incredible trip.

If you wish to embrace the freedom of a self-driving adventure, here are the best options for renting a car, allowing you to attend festivals beyond Reykjavik.

FAQs About Festivals in Iceland

We’ve compiled answers to some frequently asked questions about festivals in Iceland.

What are the most popular festivals in Iceland?

Iceland celebrates a wide array of festivals throughout the year; however, some of the most renowned include:

• Thorrablot – A midwinter Viking feast (January-February)

• Reykjavik Arts Festival – A significant cultural event (May-June)

• Secret Solstice Festival – A music festival during the midnight sun (June)

• Iceland Airwaves – A worldwide acclaimed music festival (November)

• Verslunarmannahelgi – The largest party weekend in Iceland (August)

• Sjomannadagurin (Fisherman’s Festival) – A celebration of Iceland’s fishing heritage (June-July)

What happens during Thorrablot?

Thorrablot symbolizes a midwinter Viking feast where Icelanders join together to celebrate traditional food, music, and historical customs. Expect a menu featuring fermented shark, sheep’s head, and dried fish, alongside Icelandic schnapps (Brennivin).

Are Icelandic festivals family-friendly?

Many festivals, including Reykjavik Culture Night, Children’s Culture Festival, and Winter Lights Festival, cater to families. However, some music festivals, such as Thjodhatid, may be directed more toward adult audiences.

What is Thjodhatid?

Thjodhatid (National Festival) unfolds on the Westman Islands during the first weekend of August. It features grand bonfires, captivating fireworks, and traditional singing, drawing large crowds of locals and sightseers.

Do I need tickets for festivals in Iceland?

This depends on the specific festival. Major music festivals like Iceland Airwaves require tickets, while cultural happenings such as Reykjavik Culture Night are often free to attend.

What should I pack for a festival in Iceland?

Iceland’s weather is notably unpredictable; therefore, pack layers, waterproof clothing, and comfortable footwear. For summer festivals, remember sunglasses and sunscreen due to the Midnight Sun, while winter festivals necessitate thermal clothing.

How do I get to festival locations in Iceland?

Most major festivals are hosted in Reykjavik, easily accessible on foot or via public transport. For rural festivals like Thjodhatid, consider ferries or domestic flights, while car rentals provide the best access to remote celebrations.

Can I experience the Northern Lights during a festival?

Indeed! If you visit between September and April, you may catch a glimpse of the northern lights during festivals like Iceland Airwaves or the Winter Lights Festival.

Unforgettable Moments Await at Iceland’s Festivals

The festivals of Iceland promise more than just entertainment; they are immersive experiences that encapsulate the essence of the country’s spirit. Every celebration reveals the profound connection to land, season, and community, providing a unique glimpse into Icelandic life.

From quaint village gatherings to exuberant city festivals, from the midnight sun to the snow-blanketed landscapes, there are countless opportunities for you to create lasting memories. Regardless of the time of year, a festival awaits to warmly embrace you.

Have you experienced a festival in Iceland? Are you planning your trip around one? We invite you to share your favorite memories or let us know which celebration you hope to attend. Your thoughts are welcome in the comments below.