This August long weekend, the lakeside town of Gimli will come alive with celebration, culture, and community spirit as it hosts the annual Icelandic Festival of Manitoba (Íslendingadagurinn) from August 2–4. This year’s festival holds special significance as it marks the 150th anniversary of the emigration from Iceland to Canada, a milestone that resonates deeply with Gimli’s heritage.
Íslendingadagurinn
Founded by Icelandic settlers in 1875, Gimli is the heart of what was once known as New Iceland. The Icelandic Festival, one of the oldest continuous ethnic festivals in North America, has been held in Gimli since 1932 and continues to draw thousands of visitors each year.
“This year’s Icelandic Festival is especially meaningful as we mark 150 years since the first Icelandic settlers arrived in what is now Gimli,” says Mayor Kevin Chudd. “It’s a time to reflect on our shared history, celebrate our vibrant community, and welcome visitors from near and far to experience the spirit of Gimli. We’re proud of our heritage, and even prouder to share it with the world. This year also marks the 50th anniversary of our twinning with Akureyri, Iceland — a bond that has fostered cultural exchange, friendship, and a deep connection between our communities for half a century.”
Festival highlights include Viking reenactments, traditional Icelandic food, artisan markets, live music, parades, and cultural exhibits at the New Iceland Heritage Museum. The Fjallkona, or Maid of the Mountain, will once again preside over the festivities in traditional Icelandic regalia.
In addition to the festival, visitors are encouraged to enjoy Gimli’s beautiful beach, a summer favorite known for its soft sand, clear waters, and iconic pier. A newly updated Beach Guide is now available on the RM of Gimli website at www.gimli.ca, offering helpful information on beach safety, accessibility, and amenities.
Taste the local flavour
No trip to Gimli is complete without sampling the town’s local cuisine and craft brews. A must-try for visitors is fresh Lake Winnipeg pickerel, a regional delicacy served in many local restaurants. Whether pan-fried, grilled, or in fish and chips, pickerel is a favorite that reflects Gimli’s deep connection to the lake.
That connection is more than culinary — Gimli’s Harbour is home to a thriving commercial fishing industry, one of the oldest in Manitoba. Visitors can often see fishing boats coming and going, a living reminder of the town’s working waterfront and its roots in sustainable lake fishing. The harbour area also features local eateries, patios, and breweries where guests can enjoy a cold drink and a lakeside view.
Other attractions include the Gimli Glider Exhibit, local art galleries, and the Rockin’ Gimli Harbour Concert Series, which continues throughout August with live music and entertainment.
With thousands expected to attend, visitors are encouraged to plan ahead by checking accommodations, parking, and event schedules online.
Visit www.gimli.ca for more information or follow them on social media.
Velkomin til Gimli — Welcome to Gimli!