December in LGBTQ+ Iceland is a truly magical time, where unique Icelandic traditions meet the vibrant spirit of the community. As the snow blankets the landscapes and the northern lights illuminate the long winter nights, the season brings an atmosphere of enchantment. For the LGBTQ+ community, December offers an opportunity to celebrate these traditions while fostering connection and pride.
One of Iceland’s most cherished customs is the arrival of the 13 Yule Lads, mischievous figures who bring treats (or tricks) to children. LGBTQ+ events often incorporate playful nods to these quirky characters, with themed performances, parties, and even drag interpretations of their antics. Meanwhile, the looming presence of the Christmas Cat—a mythical feline said to devour anyone who hasn’t received new clothes before Christmas—adds a touch of Icelandic folklore to the festivities.
Holiday markets like the one at Ingólfstorg Square provide a perfect backdrop for social gatherings, where you can sip hot cocoa, shop for handmade goods, and connect with others in the community.
As the cold sets in, the locals start to plan as much as they can to create some warmth, community and entertainment. Hope you have a free calendar, because it could be a very busy month!
Strip Lab Presents – Life Drawing Event
When: Sunday December 1
Time: 19:00
Where: Gaukurinn, Tryggvagata 22, 101 RVK
Cost: 3.000 ISK (sold at the door only)
THIS EVENT IS RESTRICTED TO PEOPLE OVER THE AGE OF 20
Local strip-style dance group ‘Strip Lab’ are inviting budding artists to come along to this titillating life drawing session with a pole. Hosted by artist and showgirl Ava Gold, you can expect cosy vibes, discounted drinks and, of course, pole dancing.
Strip lab will provide you with models in shorter and longer poses, with some entertaining dancing in between, all you need to bring is your paper, pencils and thirst for erotic art. This session is perfect for art students and visual artists looking for inspiration. No experience is needed. There will be some drawing supplies available but it’s recommended to bring your own.
European Film Night!: “Kobieta z…” (Woman Of)
When: Wednesday December 4
Time: 19:00
Where: Bíó Paradís Hverfisgötu 54, 101 Reykjavík
Cost: Free but booking your place is essential as this is a cinema and it has limited seats.
This event will combine the magic of European cinema with a local and queer flavour. This will begin with a free screening of the film “Kobieta z…” (English: “Woman of…”) This Polish-Swedish drama, directed by Małgorzata Szumowska and Michał Englert, spans 45 years, focusing on Aniela Wesoły, an inhabitant of a small Polish town who begins to experience gender dysphoria. The narrative explores Aniela’s journey toward personal freedom as a transgender woman, set against Poland’s transition from communism to capitalism.
After the film there will be a panel discussion. The discussion will be with actress Arna Magnea Danks who starred in a recent Trans-focused Icelandic comedy-drama film called Ljósvíkingar (English: odd fish). Arna Magnea is also a teacher, fight director and advocate for trans rights. The panel discussion will also be led by Magdalena Luksiak who is a journalist, photographer, teacher and LGBTQ+ rights activist.
This event is totally free and unmissable, but since it’s in a cinema it’s essential to book your place by clicking the event link because seats will be limited.
Queer Open Mic
When: Wednesday December 4
Time: 21:00
Where: Gaukurinn, Tryggvagata 22, 101 RVK
Cost: Free
Step into the spotlight at the ‘Queer Open-Mic’ hosted by “Sparkle,” where the vibrant heart of the queer community beats loud and proud. This special event is a celebration of queer voices and talents across stand-up comedy, music, poetry, and more. It’s an inclusive platform where queer performers can shine, share, and connect in a space that champions diversity and creativity.
Sign up to dazzle the audience with your unique performance by contacting “Sparkle,” before the show, or simply by walking into Gaukurinn before the event kicks off at 21:00.
Whether you’re a seasoned artist or ready to debut, ‘Queer Open-Mic’ is your opportunity to be part of an unforgettable evening filled with laughter, melodies, verses, and the undeniable strength of the queer community. Let your talent glow and contribute to a night that promises not just performances, but a celebration of queer identity and expression
Queer Holiday Concert – Hýrar hátíðir – Hinsegin hátíðartónleikar
When: Thursday December 5
Time: 20:00
Where: Salurinn, Hamraborg 6, 200 Kópavogur
Cost: 5.000 ISK
Celebrate the festive season with “Hýrar Hátíðir,” a queer holiday concert on December 5, 2024, at 8:00 PM in Salurinn, Kópavogur. Featuring singers Helga Margrét Clarke, Vigdís Þóra Másdóttir, and Villi Ósk Vilhjálms, accompanied by a talented band, the event will showcase beloved holiday songs by queer composers and performers. This heartwarming evening promises to fill your heart with love, anticipation, and all the colors of the rainbow. It’s the only concert in town where you will catch Daddy kissing santa claus.
Singers: Helga Margrét Clarke, Villi Ósk Vilhjálms & Vigdís Þóra Másdóttir
Piano: Sara Mjöll Magnúsdóttir
Bass: Birgir Steinn Theodorsson
Drums: Þorsteinn Jónsson
Saxophone: Ólafur Jónsson
Trompet: Eiríkur Rafn Stefánsson
Guitar: Róberta Andersen
Kyn / Líf (Stand Up Comedy Show in Icelandic)
When: Thursday December 5 & Saturday December 28
Time: 20:30
Where: Tjarnarbíó, Tjarnargata 12, 101 Reykjavík
Cost: 3.900 ISK
Join Sindri “Sparkle” Freyr for “Kyn/Líf,” a fresh and hilarious stand-up show at Tjarnarbíó in Reykjavík. In this show, Sindri shares personal stories about life changes following a new gender identity, offering insights into topics like sex, unsolicited explicit images, and why neo-Nazis can’t become graphic designers. This local comic and artist has toured internationally and is also an award-winner, picking up the Nordic Fringe Network Award and Rising Star Award at the Reykjavik Fringe Festival. Sindri is a fresh voice in Icelandic comedy and brings a very unique perspective to the stage in this show that shouldn’t be missed.
Kikioke – Karaoke at Kiki!
[kikioke]
When: Thursdays (December 5, 12, 19, 26)
Time: 22:00 to late
Where: Kiki Queer Bar, Laugavegur 22, 101 RVK
Cost: Free
Every Thursday people from all over descend on Iceland’s premier queer bar to share the joys of their vocal talents. The karaoke typically kicks off around 10pm and goes till late so do your warm ups and make your song selections.
Kjallarakabarett (Basement Cabaret)
Late and sweaty on Friday nights! As soon as the show on the Big Stage of the National Theater ends, things come to live in the basement of the theater (Þjóðleikhúskjallarinn). Burlesque, cabaret, circus, drag and all kinds of grown up things for grown up people! Every show is different and over forty artists from around the world will be performing this winter. Please note that the show is strictly prohibited for children and is not suitable for those with a fear of the human body.
When: Every Friday
Time: 22:00
Where: The National Theater (Þjóðleikhúskjallarinn)
Cost: 4.900 ISK
Artistic directors: Margrét Erla Maack and Gógó Starr.
Faye Knús Friday Drag Show at Kiki
When: Fridays (December 6, 13, 20, 27)
Time: Doors open 20:00, show starts 21:30
Where: Kiki Queer Bar, Laugavegur 22, 101 RVK
Cost: 1500kr (tickets on the door only), entry is free for VIQ-Card holders.
Kiki’s resident drag queen AKA “the hardest working woman in show business,” Faye Knús (body of a dancer, voice of your father) hosts an evening of drag, comedy, mid-life crisis and acts that cannot be unseen. It’s the perfect way to start your evening and the rest of your life.
ApocalypsticK: A Nightmare Before Christmas
When: Friday December 6
Time: 21:00
Where: Gaukurinn, Tryggvagata 22, 101 RVK
Cost: 2.500 ISK
The wildest show in town is back. The queerdos of Reykjavík are set to once again take over Gaukurinn.
It’s Apocalypstick, where the freshest talent in Icelandic drag, cabaret, and beyond will serve you fabulous looks and titillating performances. Get ready to Sleigh those bells babes. Hosted by the horribly dazzling Morning Star.
Heart Attack! Drag at Kiki
When: Saturday December 7
Time: 21:00
Where: Kiki Queer Bar, Laugavegur 22, 101 RVK
Cost: 2.900 ISK (available at the door)
Heart Attack is a monthly drag show, hosted by the drag family House of Heart! This extravagant group of performers brings you a different show each month, filled with music, dance and laughter. This is one of the best ways to experience and support local drag so mark it in your calendars and bring a few bills to tip your kings and queens.
This month’s performers are:
Lola Von Heart (The Matriarch)
Chardonnay Bublée (She’s a cool mom)
Milo de Mix (Funniest dad award winner)
Úlla la Delish (Is she still just a baby?)
This month they will also be joined by a true dancing diva, the amazing and fierce VaVa Voom!