Information
Landmark: Laugardalshöll Sports ArenaCity: Reykjavik
Country: Iceland
Continent: Europe
Laugardalshöll Sports Arena, Reykjavik, Iceland, Europe
Overview
In Reykjavik’s Laugardalur district, the Laugardalshöll Sports Arena stands as one of the city’s main sports hubs, its bright lights often spilling onto the surrounding streets at night.In Iceland, the arena buzzes year-round with basketball games, rock concerts, and cultural festivals, making it a central hub for sports and live performances.Laugardalshöll Sports Arena, known locally as Laugardalshöllin, sits in Reykjavik’s Laugardalur district and first opened its doors in 1967, earning a place as one of Iceland’s most storied indoor venues; its main hall seats about 5,000 for sports like handball, basketball, volleyball, badminton, and futsal, though crowds swell even larger when concerts fill the air with music.The Laugardalshöll began as a handball venue, but over time it’s grown into one of Iceland’s busiest arenas, hosting everything from championship basketball games to loud, crowded rock concerts.It remains a home base for both pro teams and weekend amateurs, yet it also draws crowds for trade fairs, conventions, and art exhibitions.On any given night, you might hear the echo of squeaking sneakers or the thrum of bass from the stage.It’s been a cornerstone of Iceland’s sports and entertainment scene, hosting everything from roaring concerts to championship games.Over the years, crews have upgraded its seating, lighting, and sound to keep it world-class for major events.Key features and facilities include 1.The main arena is a spacious, multi-purpose hall with a smooth wooden floor that’s perfect for indoor sports like basketball or volleyball.The arena easily transforms for concerts or other performances, with crisp lighting and powerful sound systems ready for anything from fast-paced basketball games to a booming rock show.Known for its top-tier handball courts, Laugardalshöll hosts both local matches and high-profile international tournaments.It’s also a regular stage for basketball, while its adaptable sports hall offers space for volleyball, badminton, and athlete training in well-equipped gyms and locker rooms.Seating in the main arena shifts quickly to suit whatever event’s on the schedule.At sports events, the seats wrap around the field so fans can see the action clearly-even the dirt kicking up at home plate.For concerts and other events, staff rearrange the seating to give everyone a clear view, whether it’s of the stage lights or the players on the floor.Laugardalshöll also offers extra halls that host trade shows, exhibitions, and big gatherings.These spaces often host fairs, conventions, and consumer expos, while for larger gatherings, Laugardalshöll sets aside VIP lounges and hospitality suites where guests can relax with a glass of wine and enjoy premium service.At Laugardalshöll, you can catch some of Iceland’s biggest handball matches-from nail-biting domestic finals to high-stakes international tournaments-alongside games from the country’s top basketball league.In winter, when the wind cuts sharp across the fields, the arena comes alive with volleyball and indoor soccer.It’s also a stage for music legends, hosting everything from local Icelandic bands to world-famous performers who’ve filled the space with light and sound.The arena has long drawn crowds for rock shows, pop gigs, and even the occasional sweeping classical performance.It also hosts bustling trade fairs on tourism, art, and technology, where the scent of fresh coffee drifts through rows of vibrant displays.It hosts both local and international conferences, and the place comes alive with Icelandic festivals-everything from national holiday parades to lively sports gatherings.Getting to Laugardalshöll is easy-Reykjavik’s buses stop just a short walk from the entrance.Buses run often and stop close to the venue, so it’s simple to get there from many parts of the city; drivers will find a large parking lot-though during big events it can fill quickly-and if you’re staying in the Laugardalur district, you can walk from nearby Reykjavik hotels past parks and shops; tickets for sports, concerts, and other events at Laugardalshöll are sold online or at the door.Check the schedule before you go-the arena’s busy year-round with everything from concerts to hockey games.During events, you can grab popcorn or a cold drink from one of the food stands or kiosks.At bigger events, you might find extra food vendors grilling kebabs or a set space set aside for hospitality.Practical Information 1.The arena stays open all year, but the hours change with each event-sometimes you’ll find the gates swinging wide at sunrise, other days not until dusk.For the latest details, check the official event calendar-sometimes dates change overnight.Admission fees vary with the type of event, whether it’s a small workshop or a packed evening concert.Sports games here tend to be easier on the wallet, while concerts and big exhibitions can cost more, so it’s smart to check the Laugardalshöll schedule ahead of time if you’ve got a specific event in mind; afterward, you might wander over to the steaming blue waters of Laugardalslaug Pool, stroll through the grassy paths of Laugardalur Park, or take the kids to see Icelandic animals at the nearby zoo-proof that this arena sits at the lively heart of Reykjavik’s sports and culture.Whether you’re cheering at a nail‑biting handball match, soaking in the music at a concert, or wandering through an art exhibit, you’ll find the place buzzing with energy.Right in the heart of Laugardalur, it’s an easy spot for locals and visitors alike to dive into Icelandic culture, catch a game, or enjoy an evening of live music.
