Sjomannadagur (redirected from Seaman's Day)

Sjomannadagur (Seaman's Day)

First Sunday in June

Sjomannadagur is a day honoring the role that fishing and fishermen have played in Icelandic history, celebrated in the coastal towns and cities of Iceland. Sailors take the day off, and the Seaman's Union sponsors many events. These include competitions in rowing and swimming, tugs-of-war, and sea rescue competitions. On the more solemn side, medals are awarded for rescue operations of the past year. Most celebrations begin with a church service and a trip to the local cemetery to honor sailors lost at sea. Afterward there are children's parades, dances, outdoor cookouts, and bonfires in the evening. The proceeds from the day's events throughout the country go to the national fund that supports old seamen's homes.

CONTACTS:
Icelandic Tourist Board
655 Third Ave., Ste. 1810
New York, NY 10017
212-885-9700; fax: 212-885-9710
www.icelandtouristboard.com

SOURCES:
AnnivHol-2000, p. 109

Celebration days: Jun 5, 2011; Jun 3, 2012; Jun 2, 2013; Jun 1, 2014; Jun 7, 2015