On Saturday, 30 May, the 35th edition of Reykjavík Arts Festival was officially opened with a celebratory ceremony at Reykjavík Art Museum – Hafnarhús. A large crowd gathered for the opening festivities, which featured music, dance, visual art, and a variety of performances offering a glimpse of the programme ahead. The day was marked by excitement, anticipation, and vibrant cultural activity throughout the city centre. The festival now embarks on 16 days of artistic events, presenting around 60 programmes and performances of all kinds. Nearly 1,300 artists from Iceland and abroad are participating, creating a unique opportunity to experience contemporary art, music, performing arts, and creative projects for audiences of all ages. One of the highlights of the day was the world premiere of Loftvægi by Samúel Jón Samúelsson at Harpa Square, where four Reykjavík school bands joined forces in a powerful performance involving nearly 600 young musicians. Visitors also enjoyed the aerial dance performance The Air Between Us, exhibitions in museums across the city, and a diverse programme that marked the beginning of the festival. The day concluded with the opening of the Reykjavík Arts Festival Hub at Iðnó. Outside the venue, the participatory artwork Fragile (Brothætt) began, inviting visitors to transform broken objects into a collective artwork throughout the duration of the festival. Inside the Festival Hub, the dance work Move With Pride by Rebecca “Ondina” Hidalgo, created in collaboration with the Iceland Dance Company, received its premiere. Combining dance, music, and personal storytelling, the performance was a spectacular and moving experience that captivated audiences. The venue was packed and the atmosphere electric as the work set the tone for a lively opening night and an exciting programme at the Festival Hub throughout the festival.