When Iceland air announced it would start flying into Denver International Airport, Mayor Michael Hancock said the new route would generate more than $19 million in tourism spending.
Iceland is also betting on the economic benefits, and is holding a 'Taste of Iceland' festival to introduce the country to Colorado.
The four day event kicks off Thursday night with a special culinary collaboration with Coohills 1400 restaurant in Denver.
Icelandic Chef Hákon Már Örvarsson and Chef Tom Coohill have created a four-course meal highlighting traditional Icelandic cuisine in a new and modern way.
I spoke with Már Örvarsson about the unique menu, which he says is a great introduction to Icelandic food.
With many ingredients flown directly from Iceland, the menu offers a taste of free-range Icelandic lamb and Icelandic skyr mousse, a dairy product unique to the country.
Reservations for the Coohills event are through September 30th.
On Saturday, music lovers can attend a free concert at the Gothic Theater in Denver.
“Reykjavik calling,” will pair Icelandic artists with a number of Denver musicians in a first-time collaborative effort.
Artists from local bands including, Bad Weather California, Bela Karoli, and Ending People will join Icelandic musicians including Mugison and Soley Stefansdottir. The concert begins at 8pm.
A Taste of Iceland will conclude Sunday with a mini film festival at the L2 Arts and Culture Center.
The festival will include a showing of Inni, a unique film featuring footage from Icelandic band Sigur Ros', and their last show at London's Alexandra Palace.
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A Taste of Iceland is presented by Iceland Naturally, in cooperation with Icelandair, Reyka Vodka,66° North, Blue Lagoon, Icelandic Glacial Water, Visit Iceland, Coohills, L2 Arts and Culture Center,Gothic Theatre, Oxford Hotel and 88.5 KGNU FM.
Find more information on the event here.
