The 137th Icelandic Festival of Manitoba will bring tens of thousands of visitors to Gimli, Manitoba, from July 31 to August 3, 2026. Known as Íslendingadagurinn, the event is recognized as the second-oldest continuous ethnic festival in North America and celebrates the community’s deep historical roots. The gathering is a major summer event for the region that supports local businesses and highlights Icelandic culture.
Organizers with the Icelandic Festival of Manitoba have planned several traditions for the four-day celebration. These include the Viking Village with combat demonstrations, the Icelandic Parade, and the ‘Get Dinged’ ceremony where participants are initiated as honourary Icelanders. The weekend also includes a carnival midway with rides and games hosted by Wonder Shows.
The Rural Municipality of Gimli is preparing for the large crowds and has issued reminders about traffic and safety. To keep roads clear, the municipality will use strict parking rules and a towing policy for any vehicles that block access or break local laws. The Rural Municipality of Gimli encourages residents and visitors to plan ahead for travel delays throughout the holiday weekend.
