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Taste of Iceland Festival Returns to Seattle in March 2026

Seattle is set to embrace its Icelandic connection as the annual Taste of Iceland festival returns to the city from March 19 to 21, 2026. Organized by Inspired by Iceland, this vibrant cultural festival celebrates various facets of Icelandic heritage, with a schedule packed with events showcasing food, music, art, and more.

Iceland's capital, Reykjavík, became a Sister City to Seattle 40 years ago, and this milestone will be marked through the festival, which aims to share the rich traditions of Iceland with North American audiences. The festival is presented in collaboration with local businesses and various official partners, ensuring a memorable and immersive experience for attendees.

Festival Highlights

Hosted at several key venues throughout the city, most events will be free for the public, but tickets will be necessary to guarantee entry. Here’s a rundown of some not-to-miss events and experiences:

Culinary Delights at Palace Kitchen

Every evening, guests can indulge in an Icelandic menu curated by renowned chefs Ísak Aron Jóhannsson and Ron Anderson at Palace Kitchen. The pop-up dining experience features flavors inspired by Iceland's natural beauty, including dishes made with fresh Icelandic seafood and lamb. Reservations for this exclusive dining experience can be made in advance.

Musical Journey with DJ Hermigervill

On March 19, immerse yourself in an intimate atmosphere during a special event called Reykjavík Has Its Own Soundtrack. Renowned Icelandic artist DJ Hermigervill will share rare recordings and the stories behind them, providing attendees with a glimpse into Reykjavík's diverse musical landscape at Shibuya HiFi.

Cocktail Exploration

March 20 brings a delightful Cocktail Journey Across Iceland, where guests will embark on a creative cocktail-making experience led by Icelandic guide Ragnar Bragason. The session includes storytelling about Iceland’s picturesque regions paired with unique drink recipes crafted by Icelandic mixologist Arnór Gísli.

Northern Lights Experience

Additionally, join Sævar Helgi Bragason at the National Nordic Museum for an engaging session on March 20 that delves into the breathtaking phenomenon of the Northern Lights. Attendees can experience Iceland through virtual reality and learn about the best spots for viewing Iceland's spectacular natural lights.

Family Engagement and Comedy Night

The festival also features a family workshop on March 21, led by celebrated illustrator Rán Flygenring, where children and parents can engage in storytelling through art. Later that day, attendees can join a hilarious evening entitled Iceland Unfiltered, showcasing the quirky aspects of Icelandic culture, hosted by comedians Ragnar Bragason and Bergur Ebbi at The Rabbit Box.

A Celebration of Culture

Taste of Iceland is more than just a festival; it represents a bridge between cultures and a celebration of Iceland's rich traditions. With approximately ten years of hosting this event, Inspired by Iceland has successfully engaged audiences, making it a staple in Seattle’s cultural calendar. Beyond Seattle, events will also be held in Washington, D.C., New York City, and Vancouver, continuing the mission to promote Icelandic culture.

To explore all that Taste of Iceland has to offer, visit the event's official website to secure your spots. Get ready for an unforgettable celebration filled with flavors, laughter, and a taste of Icelandic spirit!