Seattle to Host Taste of Iceland Festival with Culinary Delights, Music, and Workshops

The highly anticipated Taste of Iceland Festival is set to return to Seattle from Thursday, March 19 to Saturday, March 21, 2026. Organized by Inspired by Iceland, this cultural celebration invites Seattle residents and visitors to explore the best of Icelandic culture through food, music, art, and unique experiences. This year’s event is particularly special, as it marks the 40th anniversary of Reykjavík, Iceland’s capital, being a Sister City to Seattle, solidifying the bond between the two cities.
With the theme of “Where the Land Meets the Sea”, the festival showcases the rich traditions of Iceland, offering an immersive experience in the heart of Seattle. From traditional Icelandic cuisine to interactive art workshops, the festival promises a mix of culinary delights, musical performances, artistic experiences, and cultural storytelling that highlight the vibrant spirit of Iceland.
Festival Highlights: Culinary and Cultural Experiences
One of the standout features of the Taste of Iceland Festival is its emphasis on Icelandic gastronomy. Icelandic Chef Ísak Aron Jóhannsson will team up with Palace Kitchen Chef Ron Anderson to prepare a special Icelandic-inspired menu. This pop-up dining experience, available each evening from 5:00 PM, will offer a feast featuring fresh Icelandic cod and Icelandic lamb, sourced directly from the island’s natural resources. Food lovers can book a prix fixe menu at Palace Kitchen to enjoy the authentic flavors of Iceland in the heart of Seattle.
Additionally, visitors can try their luck at the Wheel of Prizes presented by Icelandair. Guests will have the chance to win exciting prizes, including a trip for two to Iceland, along with other rewards provided by the festival’s partners. This interactive experience is sure to enhance the fun and excitement of the festival, making it an event to remember.
Reykjavik’s Soundtrack: An Exclusive Music Event
On Thursday, March 19, Shibuya HiFi will host Reykjavík Has Its Own Soundtrack, an exclusive listening party with Icelandic multi-instrumentalist DJ Hermigervill. This intimate event will delve into the musical identity of Reykjavík, where guests will explore rare recordings, personal archives, and stories behind the city’s vibrant music scene. Hermigervill will guide attendees through the soul of Iceland’s capital, offering an unforgettable night that highlights Iceland’s unique contributions to global music.
The event takes place from 7:30 to 9:00 PM, and is a must-attend for music enthusiasts interested in Iceland’s eclectic soundscape. The evening will also celebrate Reykjavík Music City, a celebration of the city’s musical influence and how its local culture shapes the sound of its artists.
Unique Icelandic Experiences and Art Workshops
On Friday, March 20, attendees can enjoy Across Iceland: A Guided Cocktail Journey, where Icelandic guide Ragnar Bragason will take guests on a storytelling journey through Iceland’s stunning regions. Hosted at Life on Mars, this two-hour cocktail class will combine Icelandic culture and mixology, teaching participants how to craft signature cocktails inspired by Iceland’s diverse landscapes and moods. This unique experience offers a deep dive into Iceland’s natural beauty while sipping on expertly crafted drinks.
Later that evening, Iceland Airwaves Off-Venue will host a free concert featuring RAKEL and Spacestation, with DJ Hermigervill spinning Icelandic tunes between sets. The concert promises a blend of atmospheric and energetic performances, showcasing the best of Icelandic music and its contemporary sound. The concert will take place at Conor Byrne Co-op from 7:00 PM, offering a vibrant experience for music lovers.
On Saturday, March 21, the family-friendly art workshop Draw Iceland’s Stories will be held at the National Nordic Museum. Icelandic storyteller and illustrator Rán Flygenring will guide participants of all ages in creating art inspired by Iceland’s landscapes, culture, and history. This workshop encourages children and families to engage with Icelandic storytelling through drawing, doodling, and creative activities. Attendees will have the chance to win a signed edition of one of Rán’s illustrated children’s books.
Icelandic Humor: A Comedy Night Not to Be Missed
Also on Saturday, March 21, Iceland Unfiltered offers a unique comedy experience at The Rabbit Box. This one-night-only event will feature Icelandic comedians Ragnar Bragason and Bergur Ebbi, who will share hilarious anecdotes and cultural oddities from Iceland. The two comedians will provide a lighthearted look at Icelandic life, including personal stories and observations about what tourists often get wrong about the country. Each guest will receive a complimentary cocktail infused with Icelandic flavors, and Blue Lagoon Iceland will offer skincare gifts to attendees.
Connecting Cultures and Promoting Iceland
The Taste of Iceland Festival serves as a celebration of Iceland’s cultural heritage while strengthening the bond between Reykjavík and Seattle. This event showcases not only Iceland’s food, art, and music but also highlights Icelandair’s commitment to promoting Iceland as a destination for tourists from North America. Through this collaboration, the festival brings a piece of Iceland’s dynamic culture to Seattle, enriching the local cultural scene while fostering closer ties between the two cities.
Looking Ahead: Other Taste of Iceland Events
Following the success of the Taste of Iceland festival in Seattle, additional events are planned in Washington, D.C., New York City, and Vancouver later in 2026. These events will continue to offer a rich cultural exchange and further elevate Iceland’s presence in North America. Whether you’re in Seattle, Washington, D.C., New York, or Vancouver, the Taste of Iceland Festival promises to bring a vibrant slice of Icelandic culture to your doorstep.
Conclusion: Don’t Miss Taste of Iceland in Seattle
Whether you’re a foodie, music lover, or simply curious about Iceland’s culture, the Taste of Iceland Festival in Seattle offers something for everyone. From Icelandic-inspired meals to live music, art workshops, and comedy nights, this festival promises an immersive experience. Mark your calendars for March 19–21, 2026, and prepare to enjoy the best of Iceland right in the heart of Seattle!
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