Our Hotels
Keahotels is one of the largest hotel chains in Iceland operating ten hotels. Together the hotels provide over 800 rooms and service travelers, local and foreign, all year round.
Reykjavík — Capital
Vík — South Iceland
Akureyri — North Iceland
Siglufjörður — North Iceland
Grímsnes — South Iceland
Your Guide to Iceland's Music Festival Season – From Keahotels
Every summer, Iceland transforms into a country of stages. From quiet fjord towns to Reykjavík’s buzzing streets, music becomes part of the landscape. If you're visiting us in July or August, there’s a good chance your stay will overlap with one of the country’s most unforgettable music festivals. Here’s what to know; and where to listen.
Þjóðhátíð – The Heartbeat of the Westman Islands
Taking place during the first weekend of August, Þjóðhátíð is Iceland’s most legendary festival. It’s held in a natural bowl-shaped valley on Heimaey, the largest of the Westman Islands. Expect Icelandic pop and rock artists, fireworks, sing-alongs, and a sea of glowing sparklers. It’s deeply local; and incredibly moving.
Tip: From Reykjavík or Hotel Katla in Vík, ferries depart from Landeyjahöfn. (often times the ferry sells out very fast so get your tickets quickly)
Kótelettan – Music and Street Food in Selfoss
A newer favorite on Iceland’s festival calendar, Kótelettan blends live music with street food culture in the riverside town of Selfoss. It’s a family-friendly festival with a relaxed vibe, great for visitors staying near the Golden Circle or Grímsborgir.
Eistnaflug – Iceland’s Friendliest Metal Festival
Don’t let the name fool you; Eistnaflug (literally “Flying Testicles”) is known for its friendly crowd and fantastic lineup. Held in Neskaupstaður in East Iceland, it’s a small but iconic festival for lovers of metal, punk, and alt-rock.
It’s worth the road trip, or the flight, for a truly unique experience.
Hjarta Hafnarfjarðar – Free Concerts by the Harbor
This charming free music festival in Hafnarfjörður offers a great mix of Icelandic acts in a relaxed coastal setting. A perfect daytime trip for guests staying in Reykjavík who want to enjoy music without the crowds.
Innipúkinn – For the Urban Music Lover
If you're staying at one of our hotels in Reykjavík, you're in the perfect place to catch Innipúkinn* during the Verslunarmannahelgi weekend (early August). It's a cozy, urban music festival showcasing local acts; perfect for those who want to enjoy music without leaving the city.
It’s Reykjavík’s way of celebrating while others head to the countryside.
Innipúkinn: literally translates to “the inside demon”, a fitting name for the ambiance of this festival
Menningarnótt – Culture Night in Reykjavík
Held on the same weekend as the Reykjavík Marathon, Menningarnótt (Culture Night) is one of the city’s biggest annual events. You’ll find free concerts, pop-up art shows, street performers. At 9:00 PM there is an amazing show at the big stage located at Arnarhóll, where locals assemble and bid the summer goodbye; at the end of the day, there’s a magical symbolic firework show. It’s a celebration of community, creativity, and summer’s last golden light.
Guests at Sand Hotel, Apótek Hotel, or Borg Hotel will be in the center of it all.
No matter where your trip takes you, Iceland’s music festivals offer a window into the country’s creative spirit, and a soundtrack you’ll take home with you.
