August in Iceland – Festivals and Fireworks

Updated June 2022

With the short Icelandic summer drawing to a close the natives like to bid it farewell with a bang. August is a lively month with numerous festivals and celebrations taking place all over the country. The weather tends to treat us to some sun and lovely days, really squeezing out those last drops of summer. The daylight starts to decrease rapidly but that only adds to your chances of catching some of those darling Northern Lights. Let’s dig in August in Iceland, shall we?

Weather in Iceland in August

August and July are the two warmest months in Iceland, although July has a slightly higher average. In August you’ll find an average high temperature of about 13°C (55 F) and an average low of about 8°C (47 F). On an Icelandic scale this is pretty stable and what you can expect. A bit of wind, not a lot of rain (fingers crossed) and mild perfect-for-adventures weather! 

Daylight in August in Iceland

When it comes to daylight in August in Iceland you will see a tremendous difference between the earliest days and the latest. On the 1st of August, the sun rises at 4:33 am and sits again at 22:32 (10:32 pm) where else on the 31st of August the sun rises diversely at 06:06 am and sits at 20:48 (8:48 pm). However, this still means that there are between 14 and 17 hours of daylight at travelers disposal. Use them wisely, there is a lot to see! 

Northern Lights in August in Iceland?

The Aurora Borealis or Northern Lights as we like to call them, hide in plain sight throughout the summer dancing around the sky, fully present yet not seen. This has to do with their background. Let me explain better. During summer in Iceland was have an abundance of daylight, stretching well into the night and covering almost 24 hours. This phenomenon is called the Midnight Sun. It is beautiful and magical but it results in the damper condition for the Northern lights to really shine or stick out. Which is on the contrary to when the dark winter sky is present and they shine bright like neon waves. 

Nonetheless, there is still hope for those visiting in late August. The Northern Lights are known to appear in late August, especially visible in the highlands and North/West. The guides of the Laugavegur Trail say that they can pretty much count on them during their latest departures of each season! 

What to Pack for Iceland in August

August is the month of lighter packing. There is no need for a parka so a warm sweater and a jacket will do. Hat and possibly a scarf is good to pack, as the weather can change quite rapidly and it’s good to have one on hand.

Below we have listed the basics, but the travel plan needs to be kept in mind when packing. There is a slight difference between a nightlife tended trip to Reykjavik and a glacier hiking expedition to the East. Still, just keep in mind: Layers are key!

Here is the basic packing list we always recommend for summer travels in Iceland: 

• Base layer: Wool underwear/thermals
• Thick socks (more pairs than usual)
• Mid layer: Sweater, fleece or wool – this is up to you
• T-Shirt
• Long pants (could be jeans but then bring another pair for activities)
• Shorts
• Hiking boots/sturdy boots
• Hat
• Water/windproof jacket
• Light jacket
• Sunglasses
• Bathing suit
• Sunscreen (surprisingly important)
• Lip balm (you will know why when you land)

What to do in August in Iceland

Join a Horse Riding Tour

The Icelandic horse is a breed which has not mixed with any other for over 1000 years. They are bred and raised in open scapes, free to roam and play for the first few years of their life. During this time they gain the playful character that stays with them throughout. They have huge personalities, are very comfortably sized and, last but certainly not least, have a 5th gate known only to the Icelandic horse. It is called tolt and is a stable yet majestic pace.

In each step three legs touch the ground at the same time creating a wonderful movement for the rider. This is simply an unique experience. Join a horseback riding tour when in Iceland in August, something not easily forgotten!

Take a Roadtrip

Believe it or not but Reykjavik’s city life can get a bit hectic. So, make sure to get out of the city and explore different parts of the country. Rent a car, follow the Iceland Travel Companion app or join a tour, the options are endless. Some of the most sought after sights include the Golden Circle in the South, the Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon in the South East, Seydisfjordur (town) in the East, Lake Myvatn in the North, Dynjandi waterfall in the Westfjords and Mt. Kirkjufell in the West. 

Go berry picking! 

One of the best things about Icelandic summers is the cherry on top decorated at the end of summer when the blue- and crowberries start growing wild in the hills. They are delicious, organic, natural and completely without the grizzly bear-risk other Arctic location might face. 

Whether you wish to grab a few for the road, fill up a container or simply sit in the berry growth and feast, no one will stop you. Bon appetit! 

Events and Festivals in August in Iceland

The biggest of these is no doubt the “Verslunarmannahelgi,” a Labour Day/Bank Holiday equivalent to celebrating merchants that takes place over the first weekend of August. This weekend is the biggest domestic travel weekends for Icelanders as they flock to the many music festivals and camping trips available. But that is just the start of this festive month, as nearly every following week has some sort of cultural event taking place. Here are some we think travelers should check out:

The Reykjavik Marathon is held late in August and coincides with Reykjavik Culture Night. The marathon is one of the most popular runs in Iceland with thousands of runners from all over the world participating. Runners can choose from five different distances; full marathon, half marathon, 10 k-race, fun run and kid’s marathon, so people of all ages can take part and enjoy the incredible scenery around the city as they run. Afterward, participants can enjoy the various events of Reykjavik Culture Night.

Reykjavik Culture Night

The aforementioned Reykjavik Culture Night always takes place on the first Saturday after August 18th and has been held every year since 1996. The festival is created and participated in by Reykjavik’s residents and all events are free. Ranging from big concerts to intimate waffle parties in someone’s living room, Reykjavik Culture Night is a time when the city truly becomes alive with art and community spirit. The day marks the start of the city’s cultural year, when museums, theaters and other cultural institutions launch their annual program of events. The festivities culminate in a big fireworks display by the old harbor watched by thousands.

Reykjavík Pride

The Reykjavik Pride festival has been held since 1999 and has grown steadily every year, becoming one of Iceland’s biggest festivals. The six-day celebration attracts people from all over the world and is known for its family-friendly vibe, with a large percentage of the Icelandic population showing up to show support for the LGBTIQ community, equality and human rights.

This year’s festival takes place in early August and the schedule includes a wide variety of events, such as film screenings, concerts, photo exhibitions and literature events, along with a wide variety of educational events, that will give visitors a small taste of what Icelandic LGBTQI culture has to offer.

Reykjavik Jazz Festival

When you think of Icelandic music, jazz might not be the first thing that comes to mind but we actually have a thriving jazz scene with talented musicians of international acclaim. The Reykjavik Jazz festival celebrates these homegrown talents as well as hosting performers from around the world. The festival takes place in mid August.

Fireworks at Jokulsarlon

The annual fireworks show at Jokulsarlon glacial lagoon is an event no one should miss. Watch the colors of the fireworks reflected in the blue ice of the glaciers on the lagoon in one of nature’s most stunning scenery. Candles are lit on the glaciers, lending the area an ethereal vibe that will not soon be forgotten.

Swamp Soccer

The Annual Swamp Soccer Championship takes place in Bolungarvik in the Westfjords over three days in early August, where teams compete in the muddiest football matches you’ll ever see. Additional events like mud wrestling and mud tug of war are available for those less football inclined, but no matter what you participate in, prepare to get down and dirty. In the evenings’ bands and DJs play and you can bring your competitive spirit to the dance floor. Just remember to shower first!

Driving Around Iceland in August

The weather is generally better in August so driving around is easier and should be without winter’s complications such as snow and storms. The roads aren’t frosty nor slippery. This is an ideal time to explore the outskirts and highlands and for some of those areas, the last chance before Winter King visits Iceland again. 

Just make sure to check that the rental car is allowed on F-roads if the plan is to dig deeper into Iceland’s highland core with all its mountain and gravel roads. 

Ideal tours to do in August in Iceland

As the Icelandic highlands are only open for a very short time, usually from mid June until late August, we suggest to put hiking and highlands tours on the August bucket list. Our guided off-the-beaten-path group tour called Across the Wilderness is an all time favorite, offering spectacular scenery, nature walks and remote wilderness adventure.

During summer, when travelers have more time on their hand, longer road trip tours are ideal. We highly recommend Ring Road Highlights, Iceland Grand Discovery, Iceland Odyssey or Majestic Fjords.

Our local travel experts are based in Reykjavik, Iceland and will be happy to help in finding a trip that caters to your target group. Whether it’s a flexible road trip or a guided group tour with activities included, we can help in making travel dreams come true.

Get in touch with your local hosts to start planning a tour to Iceland.