Fisherman´s Day in Iceland

Few professions are as deeply ingrained in Icelandic society as fishing. For centuries, Icelanders have been sustained by the food we harvest from the sea. Every year on the first Sunday in June, we celebrate seafarers of all stripes in the Fisherman’s Day festival.

As you may have guessed, the biggest Fisherman’s Day events take place in harbor towns, where fishing ships come to dock for the weekend. All sailors get this time off, so that they may join in the festivities with their families. Though programs vary from town to town, you’re likely to find live music, boat racing, and feats of strength -- rowing, lifting, tug-of-war, and so on. Many towns also perform memorial ceremonies for those lost at sea. Sailing excursions and whale watching are commonly enjoyed this day, as are tours of vessels in dock. And of course, there’s plenty of delicious seafood, just waiting to be eaten!

For those who will be spending Fisherman’s Day in Reykjavik, the Berjaya Reykjavik Marina Hotel is the perfect place to stay. Located directly on the waterfront, the Reykjavik Marina is just steps away from whale watching tours, the Maritime Museum, and some of the best seafood restaurants in town. It would be almost impossible for guests to miss the festivities!

If you’re planning on visiting the north of the country, Akureyri is one of Iceland’s most prominent fishing centers. Fisherman’s Day is a big event there, typically lasting through the whole weekend. Berjaya Akureyri Hotel is ideally located for anyone who plans to join in the fun at the harbor.