Íslensk sundlaugamenning - pottaspjall í Sundlaug Kópavogs

Why do Icelanders go to the pool when they don't intend to swim? Why do Icelanders chat with strangers in the hot tub but not on the bus? Does one become a torchbearer of cultural heritage by showing up at the same hot tub at half past seven most mornings? And is one then allowed to stop showing up at that hot tub after Icelandic swimming culture was added to UNESCO's list of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity? Would that be irresponsible toward humanity?

Folklorist Valdimar Tr. Hafstein invites you to a floating seminar [NB. in Icelandic!] on swimming pool culture in the hot tub. No lecture will be given: guests bring forward questions and musings, and together answers are sought — afloat, at a comfortable temperature.

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VAKA Folk Arts Festival takes place from 13–19 September 2026 in Kópavogur. Throughout the festival, music, dance, craft, storytelling and traditional poetry come together in a diverse programme for curious visitors of all ages.

VAKA aims to make the festival as accessible as possible. Most events therefore offer three different ticket price options, allowing each guest to choose the price that suits them best. You can also get a festival pass, which gives you access to all events during the festival.

More information about the festival can be found at [www.vakareykjavik.is](http://www.vakareykjavik.is) and on Vökufélagið’s social media channels.

More about the festival week:

https://www.facebook.com/events/2881917765475464