Event Details
What is Dark Music Days (Myrkir músíkdagar)?
Dark Music Days, known in Icelandic as Myrkir músíkdagar, is one of Iceland's oldest music festivals. Founded in 1980 by the Icelandic Composers' Society, it has taken place every year during the darkest weeks of the Icelandic winter ever since. The festival is the country's leading platform for contemporary and experimental classical music, premiering new works by Icelandic and international composers alike.
When does Dark Music Days 2027 take place?
The 2027 edition runs from 28 to 31 January 2027. The detailed daily schedule with individual concert times is usually published only a few weeks before the festival starts; concerts traditionally spread across the day, with a focus on evening performances.
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Where in Reykjavik does the festival take place?
The main venue is Harpa Concert Hall, right by Reykjavik's harbour, complemented by concerts at Hallgrímskirkja, the city's most iconic church. Both venues are centrally located and within walking distance of downtown Reykjavik.
What can visitors expect from the program?
- World premieres of new works by Icelandic composers
- Performances by international soloists and ensembles
- Concerts by the Iceland Symphony Orchestra
- Chamber music and solo recitals at Hallgrímskirkja
- A program blending classical forms with electronic and multimedia elements
How much do tickets cost?
Individual concert tickets are priced separately depending on the event; a festival pass covering the full edition has previously cost around 18,000 ISK (roughly 120 euros, depending on the exchange rate). Tickets are sold through tix.is and through Harpa Concert Hall's own website. Ticket sales for 2027 typically open in the autumn of the preceding year.
Getting there and tips for Reykjavik in January
- Days are short in Iceland in late January, so warm, winter ready clothing is essential.
- Harpa is within walking distance of downtown; a rental car is not needed for the festival itself.
- Book tickets early, as popular concerts at Harpa have historically sold out.
- January is Reykjavik's low season, so accommodation is cheaper than in summer, though it should still be booked ahead due to limited flight capacity.
