Holidays on 17th June

Icelandic National Day

This commemorates the foundation of The Republic of Iceland on 17th June 1944. This date also marks the end of Iceland’s centuries old ties with Denmark. The date was chosen to coincide with the birthday of John Sigurosson, a major figure of Icelandic culture and the leader of the 19th century Icelandic Independence movement. The formation of the republic was based on a clause in the 1918 Act of Union with Denmark, which allowed for a revision in 1943. However due to the German occupation of Denmark meant that the revision of the act could not take place then. But a referendum on abolishing the monarchy took place in 1944 while Denmark was still occupied and it was overwhelmingly approved.

Icelanders celebrate with parades through each city, town or village, with public speeches and musical performances.

World Croc Day

This day highlights the endangerment of Crocodiles and encourages people to learn more about them. It was created by the Crocodile Research Council in conjunction with the Belize Zoo, with the first event taking place in 2017.

World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought

This day raises awareness of the presence of desertification and drought, highlighting methods of preventing and recovering from each. Each year there is a different theme for the day, in 2023 it is “Her land. Her rights”, emphasising that investing in women’s equal access to land and associated assets is a direct investment in their future and the future of humanity. It’s time for women and girls to be at the forefront of global land restoration and drought resilience efforts.