Commerce Day, or 'Verslunarmannahelgi', is a significant holiday in Iceland that marks the end of the summer and serves as a big farewell to the season. It is observed on the first Monday in August. The holiday is an annual observance that pays tribute to the country’s hardworking commerce workers and acknowledges their contributions to the economic growth and prosperity of Iceland.
The celebrations for Commerce Day typically include live music, sports events, bonfires, fireworks, and outdoor activities all around the country. Cities and towns are alive with a festive atmosphere, and many Icelanders take this opportunity to gather with friends and family. It's an occasion where workers are appreciated, and people come together to enjoy the last days of summer.
One of the prominent events during the Commerce Day is the Westman Islands Camping Festival, also known as 'Þjóðhátíð' Festival, which is one of the biggest in Iceland. An estimated 16,000 individuals attend the festival annually to enjoy the music, the camaraderie, and the spirit of celebration. Commerce Day in Iceland is not merely an acknowledgement of workers in the commerce industry, but it is an embodiment of national unity, celebration, and cultural expression.