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Prohibition of all alcoholic beverages began in Iceland in 1915, but due to the effect that this movement had on international trade, other countries began to demand that Iceland would import their spirits and wines in exchange for Icelandic fish. Although in 1921 spirits and wines were once again permitted in Iceland, beer was not reinstated as a legal beverage until March 1, 1989, which is now commonly known as ‘Beer Day’.
If you happen to find yourself in Iceland on March 1, be prepared to grab a pint and enjoy the festivities at a local pub. I was lucky enough to be in Reykjavik on the 30th anniversary of Beer Day, and truly got a glimpse inside the Icelandic culture while talking and interacting with some Icelandic citizens in some of the city’s pubs and bars.
Aside from all of the natural beauty that Iceland has to offer (black sand beaches, the northern lights, countless waterfalls, one-of-a-kind vistas--I could go on and on) the brewing industry seems to be rapidly expanding especially with an influx of craft breweries that draw in visitors both locally and from afar to sample some of their beers.
Two of my favorite brands of local Icelandic beers include Einstök and Viking. I highly recommend both for their smooth taste. Both Einstök and Viking offer a selection of types of beers ranging from White Ales to Lagers and everything in between, so any beer-lover can find something that suits their individual taste.
Chances are you won’t be in Iceland for Beer Day, and that’s ok. You can still kick back and enjoy a local brew after a day exploring the beauty that Iceland has to offer. As they say in Icelandic, “Skál”! Excited to try the beer in Iceland? Join us on our Icelandic Adventure tour.
