Iceland Airwaves has announced the first wave of artists for its 2026 edition, running 5–8 November across Reykjavik. The initial lineup includes UK artists Shygirl and The Streets, alongside Iceland’s own Daði Freyr, with further announcements expected over the coming weeks.
The Festival
Iceland Airwaves is one of Europe’s longest-running winter music festivals, held each November across multiple indoor venues in central Reykjavik. The format combines larger headline shows at venues like Harpa concert hall with off-venue performances in bars and record shops throughout the city — a structure that has defined the festival since its early years and kept its atmosphere distinct from more conventional European events.
The 2026 edition marks the festival’s return after a restructuring of its venue partnerships following the 2025 edition. Several new venues in the Laugavegur and Bankastræti areas have been added to the off-venue programme for this year.
Who Is Playing
Shygirl — London-based artist known for experimental club music and a production style that draws from UK bass, pop, and R&B. Her most recent album received widespread critical attention and her Airwaves performance will be one of her first in Iceland.
The Streets — Mike Skinner’s long-running project has toured intermittently in recent years; this is the first Airwaves appearance by The Streets in the festival’s history.
Daði Freyr — The Icelandic artist who came to international attention through Eurovision 2021 and has since built a substantial international following. His home-country festival appearances draw devoted crowds.
Further acts including Scandinavian, American, and additional Icelandic artists are expected to be announced in two more waves before early October.
Tickets and Passes
Festival passes covering all main-stage shows are on sale via the Iceland Airwaves website. Day passes for individual sessions are also available but go on sale closer to the event. Off-venue performances remain free.
Planning a November Reykjavik Trip
November is one of the better months for northern lights activity, and Airwaves weekend combines music with reasonable odds of an aurora sighting. For accommodation, Reykjavik city centre hotels are strongly recommended over suburban options during festival weekend — off-venue shows happen across a compact area and walkability is a significant advantage.
Our guide to Iceland in November covers conditions, what to pack, and what else to book alongside the festival. For Airwaves, booking now is not premature — the November music tourism spike is consistent year on year.