Blessing in the sky and on earth: Bergmál festival thrives at Þingvellir
Translated from Icelandic, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- A music festival called Bergmál is taking place at Þingvellir, Iceland, featuring performances by KALEO and Emiliana Torrini.
- Organizer Jakob Frímann Magnússon expressed satisfaction with the event's success, citing good weather and efficient operations.
- The festival faces the challenge of safely transporting 20,000 attendees home after the performances conclude around midnight.
The historic Þingvellir National Park in Iceland is currently hosting the Bergmál music festival, drawing large crowds for performances by artists like KALEO and Emiliana Torrini. Organizer Jakob Frímann Magnússon described the atmosphere as "blessed, both in heaven and on earth, in people and in music." He expressed delight with how the festival has unfolded so far, noting the favorable weather and the smooth execution of the event.
The atmosphere at Þingvellir is immense, and the band KALEO recently took the stage.
Magnússon extended gratitude to the "thousand-person army" working behind the scenes, managing everything from traffic and security to catering and cleaning. He emphasized the complexity of organizing such a large-scale event, but praised the "excellent people and excellent guests" who are making it a success. The sunny weather has been a particular highlight, adding to the positive experience for attendees.
The blessing is both in heaven and on earth, in people and in music. The concerts are going better than expected, and we are absolutely delighted with how it has turned out.
A significant logistical challenge remains: safely transporting approximately 20,000 people from Þingvellir after the festival concludes. Magnússon anticipates this process will take about two hours, with shuttle services from parking lots to buses playing a crucial role. The main programming, including KALEO's set, is scheduled to wrap up around 10:30 PM, with all activities ceasing by midnight. "So we are in high spirits," Magnússon concluded, looking forward to a successful conclusion.
The festival has gone better than expected so far, the sun is shining on the concert-goers, and those involved are extremely pleased.
Originally published by Morgunblaðið in Icelandic. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.