Leif Erikson Day in the United States is observed annually on October 9th. It honors Leif Erikson, the Norse explorer believed to be one of the first Europeans to set foot on North American soil, predating Christopher Columbus by nearly 500 years.

History:

• The day commemorates Leif Erikson's arrival in the New World, which is thought to have occurred around the year 1000 AD.
• President Lyndon B. Johnson first proclaimed Leif Erikson Day on October 9, 1964. Since then, each president has issued a proclamation for its observance.
• The date October 9th does not correspond to any particular event in Erikson's life but was chosen because the ship Restauration, coming from Stavanger, Norway, arrived in New York Harbor on October 9th, 1825 marking the beginning of organized Norwegian immigration to America.

Traditions:

• It is largely a day of appreciation for Nordic-American heritage and recognition of Norse exploration.
• Some communities with large Scandinavian-American populations hold events such as parades and educational programs about Viking history and culture.
• There are no widely established traditions for this day across the country; it is a relatively minor observance compared to other ethnic celebrations.

Activities on Leif Erikson Day:

• Some people visit statues of Leif Erikson which exist in various locations including Boston, Massachusetts; Minneapolis, Minnesota; and Seattle, Washington.
• Educational institutions may offer lessons or activities related to Viking history and Norse contributions to exploration.
• Scandinavian organizations often hold banquets or social gatherings highlighting Nordic culture with traditional food, music, and sometimes reenactments or displays about Viking history.