In an expression of sympathy and remembrance for the victims of the terrorist attack in Oslo, the Peace Tower at Viðey will be lit this Sunday, and the general public is welcome.
In a statement from the event organisers, the Peace Tower – conceived and initiated by Yoko Ono, which sits on the island of Viðey in Reykjavík harbour – is, by its nature, a “guiding light for peace around the world”.
While normally the Peace Tower would not be turned on until October, city officials, in communication with Yoko Ono, decided that the tragedy that struck Oslo last month warrants an exception to the rule. It will remain lit until the following morning.
Those wishing to attend can take the ferry that shuttles people from the Skarfabakki harbour. The programme for the event is as follows:
19:15 – 20:15: Ferry sails from Skarfabakki, and is offering both a 2-for-1 special, as well as allowing children six and under to ride free. Attendees are encouraged to bring with them one rose, to be lain at the tower.
20:30: Ellen Kristjánsdóttir and Eyþór Gunnarsson will perform at the main building on Viðey. Guests will have the opportunity to write wishes on pieces of paper and hang them on the Wish Tree, a gift from Yoko Ono, which will be in the building. Hafþór Yngvason, the director of the Reykjavík Museum, will say a few words about the history of the Peace Tower and the idea behind it.
21:10: Mayor Jón Gnarr and Norwegian consul Silje Arnekleiv will say a few words at the Peace Tower.
21:30: Peace Tower lit.
22:00: The ferry will carry people back across to Reykjavík.
Whether you can or cannot attend the ceremony, all are encouraged to have a moment of silence when the Peace Tower is lit, in remembrance of those fallen in Oslo.
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