GLEÐILEGAN SJÓMANNADAG! / HAPPY NATIONAL SEAMAN'S DAY!
Today we celebrate "Sjómannadagurinn" - or the seaman's day - here in Iceland. This day honours the role fisherman as well as other seaman and their families have played in Icelandic history. It was first celebrated in 1938, but in 1987 "Sjómannadagurinn" became a public holiday and therefore a day off for all sailors.
Still nowadays fishing is a crucial part of Iceland's economy and hence it experiences a huge importance in the country's culture and history, too. Already back in the days the fish found in Iceland waters did not only ensure the survival of the nation, but it has been exported to other countries since the 10th century. Unlike in other parts of the world, women have always been involved in fishing with records of women at sea going back to the mid-900s. During the 18th and 19th century, women comprised a whole third of the fishing fleet in some parts of the country, whilst today it is about 10% countrywide.
In many places around the country celebrations and activities will take place today to honour this important day and sailors around Iceland.
