Iceland’s National Day, celebrated on 17 June, marks the founding of the Republic in 1944. The date wasn’t chosen at random, though - it also happens to be the birthday of Jón Sigurðsson (1811–1879), the leading figure in Iceland’s fight for independence from Denmark. Honouring him felt only fitting.
Celebrations go back well before independence. As early as 1907, people were already gathering at Austurvöllur in Reykjavík to mark Jón’s birthday, with speeches, music and a crowd that made up nearly half the town.
These days, the festivities stretch right across the capital area: from Reykjavík to Seltjarnarnes, Kópavogur, Garðabær, Hafnarfjörður and Mosfellsbær. Expect a lively, family-friendly atmosphere everywhere you go, with parades, music, games and plenty to keep children entertained.
In Reykjavík, things kick off with a formal ceremony at Austurvöllur at 11:10, where the President addresses the crowd. Later, at 13:00, the parade sets off from Hallgrímskirkja and winds its way down Skólavörðustígur to Hljómskálagarður. From there, the celebrations really open up with concerts, street theatre, dance performances, circus acts, rides, food trucks, and a vintage car show. Klambratún Park joins the fun, too.
You can check the full programme at 17juni.is/en.
Most importantly, just join in. Head into town (traditional dress is not mandatory but very, very encouraged!) and enjoy the atmosphere. It’s a brilliant day to be in Reykjavík.
