For travelers visiting Iceland in fall, catching sight of the Imagine Peace Tower is a small but memorable experience. It’s an inspiring stop among the many things to do in Reykjavik, offering a quiet moment of reflection between sightseeing.
Yoko Ono designed the monument to continue the message she and Lennon shared through their art and activism: a call for global peace and understanding. The tower reflects their enduring influence and Iceland’s commitment to sustainability, making it both a cultural and environmental statement.
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While the beam can often be seen from Reykjavik’s waterfront, for example, near the Sun Voyager Sculpture, you can also visit it up close. A short ferry ride from Skarfabakki Pier takes you to Videy Island, where a marked walking path leads to the monument.
Keep reading to learn when the Imagine Peace Tower is illuminated, how to visit, and what makes this Icelandic landmark such a meaningful symbol of peace.
Key Takeaways
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Main feature: Tower of Light dedicated to John Lennon
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Created by: Yoko Ono as a symbol of peace
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Location: Videy Island, Kollafjordur Bay, near Reykjavik
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Access: Reachable via ferry from Reykjavik’s Skarfabakki Pier
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Best time to visit: October 9 to December 8 (and select dates in winter and spring)
Physical Features of the Imagine Peace Tower
During the day, the Imagine Peace Tower appears as a simple white stone monument, shaped like a wishing well. Around its rim are the words “IMAGINE PEACE”, inscribed in 24 languages. At night, however, it transforms.
With 15 searchlights and a system of mirrors and prisms, the tower emits a shimmering blue-white beam that can reach up to 13,000 feet (4,000 meters) into the sky. It’s powered entirely by Iceland’s geothermal energy, making it a sustainable art installation that reflects both environmental awareness and artistic vision.
The result is breathtaking, especially under Iceland’s clear autumn skies. The beam appears to dissolve into the stars above.
What Makes the Imagine Peace Tower Special?
The Imagine Peace Tower holds a deep sense of meaning.
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It was unveiled on October 9, 2007, which would have been John Lennon’s 67th birthday.
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The tower lights up each year from October 9 to December 8, the date of Lennon’s death.
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It also shines during the winter solstice, New Year’s Eve, the spring equinox, and other selected dates.
Yoko Ono created the tower to honor John Lennon's legacy and to share his message of peace with the world. The phrase “IMAGINE PEACE” recalls the spirit of Lennon’s famous song Imagine, encouraging visitors to consider what a peaceful world could look like.
When Is the Imagine Peace Tower Lit Up?
The Imagine Peace Tower in Reykjavik is illuminated on specific dates throughout the year to mark occasions that celebrate peace, hope, and the legacy of John Lennon and Yoko Ono. Each lighting period has a symbolic meaning, reflecting key moments in their lives and Iceland’s natural rhythms of light and darkness.
October 9th to December 7th
This is the main lighting period for the Imagine Peace Tower. The tower is first lit on October 9th, which is John Lennon’s birthday, and remains illuminated every evening until December 7th, the night before the anniversary of his passing.
On the opening night, October 9th, the tower lights up at 8 p.m. and stays on until morning as part of a public ceremony on Videy Island.
From October 10th to 31st, the beam shines from 8 p.m. until midnight. In November, it lights from 7 p.m. until midnight, and during the first week of December, from 6 p.m. until midnight.
December 21st to December 31st
The Imagine Peace Tower is illuminated again during the winter solstice and holiday season, symbolizing the return of light during Iceland’s darkest days. From December 21st to 30th, the tower shines nightly from 6 p.m. until midnight.
On New Year’s Eve, it stays lit from 6 p.m. until morning, creating a breathtaking sight as Reykjavik’s fireworks and the glowing beam fill the sky together.
February 18th
The tower lights once more on Yoko Ono’s birthday, February 18th, from 8 p.m. until morning. This date honors her lifelong dedication to art and activism, as well as her enduring message of peace and unity.
March 20th to 27th
From March 20th to 27th, the tower shines again to commemorate John and Yoko’s 1969 honeymoon and their world-famous Bed-In for Peace. The beam is illuminated each evening from 8 p.m. to midnight, symbolizing love, creativity, and their shared vision for global harmony.
Where Is the Imagine Peace Tower Located?
The tower is located on Videy Island, a quiet and uninhabited island in Kollafjordur Bay, just a short ferry ride from central Reykjavik.
Videy is known for its natural beauty, birdlife, and historical significance. The island offers peaceful walking trails and open views across the bay, creating an ideal setting for contemplation and exploration.
How Can I Get to the Imagine Peace Tower?
Visiting the Imagine Peace Tower involves a scenic and easy ferry trip to Videy Island. Here is what you need to know:
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Ferry departure point: Usually from Skarfabakki Pier in Reykjavik.
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Ferry schedule: Varies by season. During the lighting period in autumn and winter, special evening ferries are often added.
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Cost: Ferry tickets are affordable, and on some occasions, the ferry ride is free as part of the lighting ceremony.
Once you arrive on the island, it’s a pleasant 10 to 15-minute walk along a marked trail to reach the tower.
Dress warmly and wear proper footwear. It can be windy and cold, especially at night. Bringing a flashlight or headlamp is also helpful if you're staying after dark.
Is There Anything Else Near the Imagine Peace Tower?
Yes, Videy Island offers several notable attractions beyond the Imagine Peace Tower:
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Videy House: A beautifully restored 18th-century building that once served as a residence for Icelandic dignitaries.
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Videy Church: One of the oldest churches in Iceland, built in 1774 and still standing in its original form.
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Richard Serra’s “Afangar”: A striking series of basalt columns placed across the island by the renowned American sculptor.
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Millennium Peace Sculpture: Another public artwork celebrating Iceland’s commitment to peace and nature.
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Old Harbor Ruins: Remnants of historic settlement structures that offer a glimpse into the island’s past.
Back on the mainland, you are just minutes from central Reykjavik, where you can explore museums, geothermal pools, galleries, and a wide range of local restaurants.
Conclusion
The Imagine Peace Tower is one of Reykjavik’s most distinctive landmarks. The light display adds a quiet highlight to fall vacations in Iceland and is easy to catch sight of while exploring other attractions around Reykjavik.
For travelers who want to see it up close, the ferry ride, views of the bay, and the tower design make it a meaningful stop that combines art, nature, and local culture in one visit.
