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Annual observance

Leif Erikson Day

October 9 Cultural / community observance Updated 2025-12-18

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Overview

Leif Erikson Day is an annual observance in the United States and other countries, celebrated on October 9th, commemorating the Norse explorer Leif Erikson's voyage to North America. It honors his legacy as one of the first Europeans to set foot on the continent, nearly 500 years before Christopher Columbus, highlighting the rich history of Norse exploration and its impact on North American history.

Observed each year on October 9, Leif Erikson Day invites people to pause, share the story, and bring a little themed joy to their day.

Why it matters: Leif Erikson Day, celebrated on October 9, recognizes the significant contributions of Norse explorer Leif Erikson, who reached North America around 1000 CE, long before Columbus. This observance highlights the early European exploration of the continent and its lasting influence on the cultural and historical landscape of North America.

Origin and story

Leif Erikson landed in North America (specifically 'Vinland') around 1000 CE, nearly five centuries before Christopher Columbus.

The October 9th date for the holiday commemorates the arrival of the ship *Restauration* from Norway in New York in 1825, marking the start of organized Norwegian immigration to the U.S., rather than an event in Erikson's life.

Quick facts

  • DateOctober 9
  • TypeCultural / community observance
  • Great forFriends, Families, Classrooms, Teams

Also on this date

Ways to celebrate

  • Share the story of Leif Erikson Day on social and tag it with #leiferiksonday so others can join in.
  • Bring Leif Erikson Day to work or school with a short shout-out in a meeting or group chat.
  • Leif Erikson Day lands on October 9 — host a quick nod with Friends, Families and snap a photo.
  • Pair music, snacks, or décor that match the theme and enjoy a small break.
  • Post a story with #leif-erikson-day and invite others to try a tiny activity.

Fun facts

  • Leif Erikson landed in North America (specifically 'Vinland') around 1000 CE, nearly five centuries before Christopher Columbus.
  • The October 9th date for the holiday commemorates the arrival of the ship *Restauration* from Norway in New York in 1825, marking the start of organized Norwegian immigration to the U.S., rather than an event in Erikson's life.
  • L'Anse aux Meadows in Newfoundland, Canada, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and the only authenticated Norse settlement in North America, believed to be part of Erikson's Vinland.

Sources and attribution

Source not provided.

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FAQ

When is Leif Erikson Day?
It is observed on October 9 each year.
What is Leif Erikson Day?
Leif Erikson Day is an annual observance in the United States and other countries, celebrated on October 9th, commemorating the Norse explorer Leif Erikson's voyage to North America. It honors his legacy as one of the first Europeans to set foot on the continent, nearly 500 years before Christopher Columbus, highlighting the rich history of Norse exploration and its impact on North American history.
How do people celebrate Leif Erikson Day?
Share the story of Leif Erikson Day on social and tag it with #leiferiksonday so others can join in.

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