The Reykjavik Jazz Festival became an important fixture in the musical landscape of Reykjavik when its first edition launched in 1990 with the Nordic Radio Jazz Days as a collaboration between RUV (State Broadcasting), The City of Reykjavik and The FIH (musicians union) Jazz Department. The festival was an instant hit with audiences and musicians alike and the fact that the upcoming festival (August 14.-20.  2014) will be the  25th edition  speaks volumes about its success in keeping alive the message of improvised music.

The Reykjavik Jazz Festival is dedicated to presenting the best international artists available in a variety of genres within jazz as well as electronica and world music. The vibrant local music scene is the backbone of the festival and we strive to showcase the vast talent available on the Reykjavik music scene. We extend our events throughout the country and the world with radio broadcasts and live streaming. Our venues range from the home studios of the participating musicians to the largest hall of Harpa Concert Hall. The Reykjavik Jazz Festival 2014 will present a variety of music every day of the festival week. A Festival Pass will be available on the festival web site and the program will be unveiled in April 2014.