The area, Hrunamannahreppur, is preparing to mark two major milestones in 2026: 1,150 years as a recognised municipality, and what festival organisers claim to be 1,200 years since initial settlement.
Mbl.is reports that though the festival programme is already in development, the historical basis of the anniversary has prompted academic debate.
“We wanted to celebrate the 1,200th anniversary of the district, but it shook up the academic community,” said Esther Guðjónsdóttir, who is coordinating the event.
The municipality is celebrating 1,200 years in line with the belief that Norse settlers arrived in Iceland as early as 826 AD. This date is not supported by mainstream historical research, which actually puts the settlement of Iceland at 874 AD. However, Esther stated there is evidence of the settlement dating to that time.
Celebrating history?
Esther initiated the idea for an anniversary festival many years ago. She believes that Hrunamannahreppur is unique, telling mbl.is, “We are the oldest municipality in the country that is mentioned in Landnáma (Book of Settlement) and has not been merged with another municipality. That’s why we thought it was perfect to celebrate the anniversary.”
The main festivities are scheduled for 20–21 June 2026, following an official launch on 17 June. Activities will include concerts, Viking reenactments, exhibitions, and community-led walks around the area.
“We’re going to look a little bit to the past,” said Esther. “We’re going to try to leave something behind, something lasting.”
