When is Independence Day in Iceland (National Day)?

Question: When is Independence Day in Iceland (National Day)?

When is Independence Day in Iceland celebrated, and what are the local Icelandic traditions travelers can experience on the "Iceland National Day"?

Answer: Icelandic Independence Day is June 17, a major annual event in Iceland commonly known as National Day. Enjoy the Fourth of July early! National Day in Iceland is a great time to visit the country, with warmer temperatures in Iceland.

On June 17 each year, Reykjavik hosts Independence Day parades, street theater, sideshows and dancing.

Icelanders love to celebrate this national holiday (also see Holidays & Festivals in Scandinavia.)

Iceland National Day in Icelandic is "þjóðhátíðardagurinn" (the day of the nation's celebration).

In 1944, the Scandinavian country of Iceland declared full independence from the Danish crown. Icelanders selected June 17 to be the official holiday because it was the birthday of Jon Sigurdsson who is regarded as Iceland's champion to the nationalist cause.
This article is part of the series Independence Days in Scandinavia.

Learn more about other June events, along with monthly weather, activities and packing tips in Scandinavia in June and also visit National Holidays in Scandinavia!