Welcome to Leikjavík, Reykjavik’s newest game centre and meeting place for all those who are bonkers about board games and passionate about puzzles. Leikjavík, which officially opened its door last Friday to over seventy people, is an inspiring social development project masterminded by a group of social entrepreneurs hailing from all around the world and living in Reykjavík.
One of the founders, Filipa Andrade, has been living and working in Iceland for over a year. “We started out as a small group in November 2009 initially because we love to play games and meet new people. As we’ve grown, we’ve noticed ourselves, as well as having been told by many others, that Reykjavík is missing a place where anyone can come, meet people and play games for free.”
The project is supported by the City Hall of Reykjavík, which Filipa says, “Have made it all possible by granting our project with the funding it needed to get started.” Leikjavík is also kindly supported by game shops in Reykjavík, namely Spilavinir and Nexus, as well as through important financial and games contributions from individuals and families. “Leikjavik would not have started without help of our friends, volunteers and all the community that brought their enthusiasm and got involved.”
The organisers hope that the new centre will offer a place where people can spend time playing games and meeting others in their local community. “We want to be open to everybody – young people, old people, locals and foreigners, regulars and one-time visitors or travellers. The only rule is – you can just come and join in. You don’t need to know the games, or bring anyone to play with. Everything is free of charge, accessible and easy!”
Sounds like a perfect way to brighten up those dark winter evenings.
Leikjavík is open Tuesday to Friday: 19:00 – 23:00 and at weekends from 15:00 to 23:00 at Barónsstígur 3, 101 Reykjavík
Up to date info on openings and events can be found on Leikjavík’s Facebook page