Throughout Reykjavik and the surrounding areas, September is filled with events that cater to both the LGBTQIA+ community and its allies.
The capital’s cozy cafes and cultural hubs become meeting points for engaging discussions, artistic showcases, and intimate social gatherings. With the hustle and bustle of peak tourist season behind, September offers a more relaxed atmosphere, perfect for those looking to connect on a deeper level with both the community and Iceland’s stunning natural beauty.
While the grand Pride parades may have passed, September still boasts a rich calendar of events that should not be missed. From film screenings to community forums, this month offers a diverse array of opportunities to engage, learn, and celebrate. So grab your sweaters and mark your calendars, because September in LGBTQIA+ Iceland promises to be a month of meaningful connections and memorable experiences.
Queer Open Mic
When: Wednesday September 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
Kikioke – Karaoke at Kiki!
When: Thursdays (September 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.
Faye Knús Friday Drag Show at Kiki
When: Fridays (September 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.
Bókaklúbbur Samtakanna ‘78 (Samtök 78 Book Club) – Giovanni’s Room
When: Thursday Thursday September 5
Time: 20:00
Where: Samtökin ‘78, Suðurgata 3, 101 RVK
Cost: Free
For literary fans within the community, Iceland’s national queer organisation Samtökin 78 hosts a monthly book club open to all interested in getting together to discuss queer works of literature. This month’s book is Giovanni’s Room by James Baldwin; originally published in the United States in 1956. The novel was hugely controversial when it came out, as were many of Baldwin’s works. It has recently been translated into Icelandic for the first time by Þorvaldur Kristinsson.
The book can be found in bookstores, libraries and online. Cake and coffee will also be provided.
Heart Attack! Drag at Kiki
[Image heart Attack ]
When: Saturday September 7
Time: 21:00
Where: Kiki Queer Bar, Laugavegur 22, 101 RVK
Cost: 2900 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?)
Betra Seint en Aldrei – Better Late than Never
When: Sunday September 8
Time: 15:00
Where: Suðurgata 3, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
Cost: Free
This is a special afternoon dedicated to women who came out late. In the event description the group have stated:
If you came out late and would like to meet other women who share your experience, come along to Samtökin 78 for an afternoon meeting.
House of Heart: A Drag Saga (second showing)
When: Friday September 14
Time: 21:00
Where: Tjarnarbíó, Tjarnargata 12, 101 Reykjavík
Cost: 5500 ISK
After an incredibly well-received run during Reykjavík Fringe 2024 (and a couple of awards), the House of Heart is putting on their show “House of Heart: A Drag Saga” AGAIN, in Tjarnarbíó
“House of Heart: The Drag Saga” is where theatre and drag meet in pure confusion – an epic story, filled with glamour, laughter and stupidity! Through the glittery lens of drag, you will learn all about the drag family House of Heart, about their good, their bad, and even their battle against evil forces.
Lola von Heart, Chardonnay Bublée, Milo de Mix and Úlla la Delish invite you into their little world, for one night only. There will be classic and not-so-classic drag acts, dancing, music, and of course a lot of silly jokes. You do not want to miss this feast!
The House of Heart is not only a drag troupe but a close-knit group of friends who love creating art together. Their use of the terms “House” and “drag-family” are a respectful nod to queer culture and the legacy of ballroom, and the Hearts always bring the values of community and queer joy to their shows.
Mighty Bear and Skaði Live Music Show
When: Thursday September 26
Time: 21:00
Where: Gaukurinn, Tryggvagata 22, 101 RVK
Cost: Free
Mighty Bear and Skaði are two popular local queer music acts who have teamed up for this double bill. Both have taken a long break and are coming back with a bang. Come along to this event to support local queer punk and electronic music.