So it’s almost that time again when the Icelandic National Holiday ticks around on the calendar. As of this post’s publication, the blessed event is just over one week away. Next Thursday 17th June, Icelanders of all stripes will take to the streets clad in þjóðbúningurinn, traditional national dress to you and me.

Dubbed the Þjóðhátíðardagurinn in Icelandic (þjóð = nation, hátið(ar)= festival, dagur(inn) = day), or Þjóðhátíð for short, it is sure to be a fun-filled day of celebration as the Icelanders proudly hold up on* their nation’s independence.

This year will be the 66th since Iceland won its independence from Denmark and will be commemorated with the usual brass-band-led parade down Laugarvegur, Reykjavík’s equivalent of Oxford Street. Then the Fjallkona (Mountain Woman) will deliver her speech to the crowds. For the young’uns among you, a trip to the Westman Islands might be obliged if you prefer a more alcohol-fuelled celebration of the day’s festivities.

The whole day is a celebration of a proud nation, and to be honest a good ol’ excuse for some high-jinks and all-around joviality. So why not mosey on down to Laugarvegur next Thursday? After all, none of the shops will be open.

*from the Icelandic að halda upp á = to celebrate

Source: Our hearts
Image: Jakob Fannar

Labels: Holidays