Fun and good spirits on Youth Center Day in Reykjavík

Children sit at two large, long tables.

The annual Youth Center Day was celebrated at youth centers throughout Reykjavík recently. The day aims to highlight the diverse, constructive recreational activities at the City’s youth centers by inviting parents and other family members of young people to visit the centers and learn about the programs.

 

The day is part of youth center and youth house week held nationwide by SAMFÉS, the association of youth centers and youth houses in Iceland. The day has been marked with special festivities in the capital area since 2005.

Excitement throughout the city

The City’s youth centers warmly welcomed families, with many offering refreshments, games and other entertainment. Visitors also had a chance to see what young people do at the youth centers and tour the facilities firsthand. Below are a few highlights from the day, offering a glimpse of the many activities available.

Hólmasel served snacks and hosted bingo, which was a big hit. A large screen displayed photos of the programs, and visitors could try table tennis, pool and darts, among other activities. Attendance was strong, with about 200 people visiting Hólmasel that evening.

The gathering at Höllin youth center was smaller, offering a cozy atmosphere. Parents and other immediate family members visited, enjoying a variety of refreshments, including waffles, cakes, pastries, salads and vegetables with dip.

The youth center in 105 also saw a great turnout, bringing together children at the middle primary level, teenagers and parents. Visitors had the chance to try a variety of activities offered at the youth center, including table tennis, PlayStation, and Jenga. A Kahoot quiz also tested visitors’ knowledge of the youth center’s programs and staff.

At Hofið, a youth center for disabled children, parents were welcomed for coffee and cake, with photos and videos of activities on display. Staff also enjoyed chatting with parents while the children and teenagers showed what they had been up to over the winter.

Youth Center Day gave families a chance to step into the world of youth centers, explore their programs, and spend time with their children and young people.