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Sovereignty Day

Photos: Hilmar Friðjónsson
Photos: Hilmar Friðjónsson
Sovereignty Day (Fullveldisdagur) is celebrated annually on December 1st in Iceland. This day commemorates the signing of the Union Act with Denmark in 1918, which established Iceland as a sovereign state in personal union with Denmark.
It represents a pivotal moment in Iceland’s history, marking a step toward full independence, which was ultimately achieved on June 17, 1944, with the establishment of the Republic of Iceland.

In Akureyri, the day was celebrated with special events, including the lighting of the Christmas tree in the town square making a joyful kickoff to the Advent season.