Iceland to host rare eclipse festival in 2026

Iceland is gearing up for a major festival to mark a rare solar eclipse next summer, offering visitors a once-in-a-lifetime celestial experience. The Iceland Eclipse Festival will run from 12–15 August 2026 on the Snæfellsnes peninsula, featuring four days of music, art, science, and immersive activities.

The total solar eclipse, set for 5:47 p.m. local time, will plunge the region into darkness for roughly two minutes—a phenomenon last seen in Iceland in 1954 and not expected again until 2196. Coinciding with the peak of the Perseids meteor shower, festival-goers will also have the opportunity to view meteor streaks with minimal light pollution, an article by TimeOut reveals. 

The festival line-up includes artists, scientists, and musicians such as Berlioz and Meduza³, offering live performances, large-scale art installations, talks, and interactive cosmic experiences designed around the eclipse.

Visitors can stay in private accommodations or local rentals in Hellissandur, a small town known as Iceland’s “Street Art Capital,” or opt for onsite camping and glamping to fully immerse in the event.

Co-created by IMXP, an immersive experiences platform, and Secret Solstice, Iceland’s renowned music and culture festival, the Iceland Eclipse Festival aims to unite Icelandic and global communities while honoring the cultural traditions of eclipse gatherings.

Fred Ólafsson, founder of Secret Solstice, said: “This partnership is a chance to co-create something truly memorable for both Icelanders and the global community during one of the most extraordinary celestial events of our time.”

By Sabina Mammadli