Leif Erickson Day
October 9, Thursday
History of the holiday
Leif Erikson was the son of Erik the Red, founder of the first Scandinavian settlement in Greenland. Around the year 1000, he reached the shores of the continent he called Vinland (likely in present-day Canada).
The idea of honoring Leif Erikson first appeared in the late 19th century among Americans of Scandinavian descent. In 1925, on the 100th anniversary of the arrival of the first Norwegian immigrants to the United States, Congress recognized the contribution of Scandinavians to the development of the country.
In 1964, President Lyndon Johnson officially proclaimed October 9 as Leif Erikson Day.
Why October 9
This date was chosen not to mark Erikson’s birthday but in memory of the arrival of the Norwegian ship Restauration in New York on October 9, 1825. This day is considered the beginning of mass Scandinavian immigration to America.
Traditions
* Parades and festivals are held in cities with strong Scandinavian communities (Minnesota, Wisconsin, North Dakota).
* Schools teach about Viking life and early sea voyages.
* Museums and cultural centers host themed exhibitions, lectures, and historical reenactments.
Significance of the holiday
Leif Erikson Day reminds people of the contribution of Scandinavian peoples to the exploration of the New World and emphasizes the importance of cultural heritage and diversity in American history.