Mývatn Oktoberfest returns with 15 breweries

A German-themed Oktoberfest will bring 15 breweries to Sel-Hótel Mývatni, a hotel in the Mývatn district, this Friday and Saturday. The festival is being held for the second time, mbl.is reports.

The hotel is being decorated in a Bavarian style for the event, which is organised by the family behind Mývatn Öl, a brewery at Skútustaðir, and the hotel. Elvar Yngvason, the brewery and hotel group’s marketing manager, said the idea grew from his family’s ties to Germany and their interest in the festival.

Yngvason said both his parents lived in Germany when they were young, before they met, and both speak fluent German. The family also wanted to invite breweries to present their products at an event in the district.

Alongside craft beer from breweries around the country, visitors will be able to try wine and spirits. Kjarnafæði and MS will present cheeses and sausages, while the food will draw on German cuisine with an Icelandic touch. Yngvason’s cousins will also showcase Skútaís, ice cream they make at Skútustaðir.

Live music is planned for both evenings. Guests are encouraged, but not required, to wear traditional German outfits, and a prize will be awarded for the best costume.

More than 200 people attended last year’s festival. Yngvason said local residents were looking forward to gathering and having fun.