Musician Laufey was among fourteen Icelanders awarded the Order of the Falcon at a New Year’s Day ceremony held yesterday at Bessastaðir.
As reported by RÚV, the awards were presented by the President of Iceland, continuing the long-standing tradition of conferring the Order twice each year, on New Year’s Day and on Iceland’s National Day, 17 June.
Laufey, whose international career has expanded rapidly in recent years, received the honour for her contribution to music in Iceland and abroad. Speaking after the ceremony, she described the award as deeply meaningful.
“I’m just so incredibly proud to be Icelandic—that’s the feeling today. I’m excited to go back into the world and continue talking about Iceland,” she said.
National Honour Bestowed
The singer added that the Order of the Falcon would likely take its place alongside her Grammy awards, reflecting both her international success and her continued connection to Iceland.
Among the other recipients were former footballer Ásgeir Sigurvinsson, honoured for his achievements in sport, as well as individuals recognised for contributions to science, education, healthcare, culture, and social welfare.
Those awarded this year include artists, academics, healthcare professionals, educators, and volunteers, reflecting the broad scope of the Order, which recognises exceptional service to Icelandic society across a wide range of fields.
Yesterday’s ceremony at Bessastaðir marked the first official honours of the new year, celebrating both long-standing public service and contemporary cultural achievement.
