Intro
Only a few months remain until EVE Fanfest 2025, and I thought this would be the perfect time to revisit last Fanfest. If you’re unsure whether to attend, I hope my story will help you decide.
For me, this was more than just a trip—it was a pilgrimage 20 years in the making. I have traveled through the stars of New Eden for two decades, and finally, my path led me to Iceland, to the heart of the EVE universe, for its grand 20th-anniversary celebration. I was there not only as a journalist but as a player, as someone who had lived through the highs and lows of this universe, seen alliances rise and fall, and forged my own stories within it.
EVE Fanfest is no ordinary event. It is a gathering of legends, a meeting of those who shape the ever-expanding world of EVE Online. And such a journey could not be captured in a single telling. That is why I have chosen to recount it as a saga—one worthy of the scale, the history, and the experiences it brought.
Right after my trip, I shared my impressions in a more structured and factual report. But this version is different—it’s more personal, capturing not just the events but the emotions, the moments between the grand announcements, and the essence of what made this journey unforgettable. I’ve also included additional photos that weren’t published before, giving a broader view of the experience.
My journey spanned several days, and to honor each step, I have divided this tale into multiple parts—each dedicated to the special moments and encounters that defined this adventure.
So, light a fire (or click this link if modernity has robbed you of such luxuries), brew a strong tea, wrap yourself in a warm cloak, and settle in. This is a story of distant lands, legendary gatherings, and a journey unlike any other.
Table of Contents
The Saga of EVE Fanfest 2023, Part 1 – Arrival
It was late September—the time when nature in the Northern Hemisphere begins its slow preparation for winter. Iceland, my destination, is a remote island in the North Atlantic, accessible only by sea or air.
My journey began on September 20, 2023. For the next 3 hours and 40 minutes, we soared high above the clouds, with the altimeter reading 11 kilometers above sea level. To pass the time, I struck up a conversation with my seatmates. One was a construction worker who had come to Iceland for work; the other was returning home from a trip. Both spoke excellent English.
The skies were clear, and visibility was great. The island emerged on the horizon long before we landed, allowing me to admire Iceland’s rugged beauty from the window, like a bird gliding through the sky. As we flew along the coast, I fixed my gaze on the deep blue ocean, hoping to spot a whale. Unfortunately, at this time of year, these majestic creatures remain in the northern waters, while we were approaching from the south.
The Landing
The coastline near Keflavík International Airport was almost barren. For thousands of years, lava flows had laid down a foundation of black, porous rock, where only moss and sparse grasses now grew. It was a breathtaking sight—like stepping onto another planet. Having grown up in a land rich with forests, I always found comfort in trees, but here, there were none. The landscape felt exposed and raw.
After a 50-kilometer drive, I arrived in Reykjavík by midday. Sunset at this time of year was around 7:30 PM, making every minute precious. After checking into my hotel, I set out to explore the city, eager to experience Icelandic life, culture, and architecture.
Reykjavík – A City Between Eras
I made my way to Reykjavík’s main street, Laugavegur, to begin my walk. The local fashion, building facades, and shop displays created an atmosphere that felt like an alternate universe. It reminded me of the shows Severance, Counterpart, and Tales from the Loop—a kind of retro-futurism, where style and culture seemed frozen in time, yet people carried iPhones. I found it mesmerizing. Traditional knitted lopapeysa sweaters paired effortlessly with modern technology, creating a striking aesthetic.
Souvenir shops were filled with unique treasures. Even a simple bottle opener boasted the elegant functionality characteristic of Scandinavian design—minimalist, durable, well-balanced, made of high-quality materials, and, of course, priced accordingly.
As I passed by numerous bars and souvenir stores, I realized I was in a tourist-heavy area. So, I turned onto a side street and made my way toward the waterfront.
And that’s when Reykjavík revealed its modern side. Bold architectural designs of glass and concrete stood in contrast to the island’s rugged volcanic rock. I came across several buildings in the expressionist style, including the National Theatre, which is rumored to feature stones from Iceland’s nature reserves in its exterior cladding.
And then, of course, there was the majestic Hallgrímskirkja. Standing at 74 meters tall, it is one of the highest structures on the island.
I also noticed the vibrant colors of the buildings and the abundance of murals on their facades. Perhaps the harsh climate, short daylight hours, and rare appearances of the sun inspire people to bring more color into their world. It seemed like a way for them to express joy—to brighten their surroundings and lift their spirits.
The First Night in Reykjavík
A long flight and over 20 kilometers of walking had taken their toll on me. But I realized I had found something precious—a completely new experience—and I wanted to make the most of every moment in this country. Exhausted but eager for the next day’s adventures, I returned to my hotel to rest.
Lying in bed with my eyes closed, I tried to organize my impressions. The harmony of tradition and modernity, the openness of the people, and their artistic self-expression—that was Reykjavík.
One thing I didn’t see, however, was the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis). As fate would have it, just as I drifted into sleep, an incredible celestial display unfolded outside—one of the most intense auroras of the past 20 years, or so the locals said the next morning. And here you can find continuation of my journey – EVE Fanfest Saga – Part 2: Secrets, Secrets, Secrets.
Day 1 Gallery
Below, enjoy the gallery with more photos from that day
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