Happy Leif Erikson Day
If you're new here, you may want to subscribe to our RSS feed. Thanks for visiting!
When one hears “Happy Leif Erikson Day”, it is very likely that, if they have kids, the first thing that pops into mind is the SpongeBob SquarePants episode with Bubble Buddy. Bubble Buddy, of course, was the pal that SpongeBob created to celebrate Leif Erikson Day with. Always nice to celebrate little-known holidays with a friend, no? So, how will you be celebrating? Better start thinking–Leif Erikson Day is upon us.
So who is this Leif Erikson, anyway? And why do we celebrate him each year? Here’s a little history about this fantastical holiday:
President Bush declared October 9 Leif Erikson Day to honor the contributions of Nordic Americans to our culture. With the good people of Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden, we shall honor the Nordic pioneers who helped settle the American frontiers in the 19th century. Cool. According to President Bush’s 2001 Proclamation, the Nordic and American people share such virtues as courage, resourcefulness and self-reliance.
Sounds like a reason to party to me.
Now evidently, Leif Erikson (who, when googled, has a multitude of spellings for his last name. This spelling is the one included in the Leif Erikson Day Presidential Proclamation) had a band of men whom he led into the unknown world of America to become the first Europeans to set foot on American soil. Naturally, this endeavor was incredibly risky, so we are invited to reflect on Erikson’s achievements and honor him and his explorers for the courage and sacrifice they put forth. And, of course, we are invited to emulate his brave, dare I say, entrepreneurial spirit as well.
Because of Leif Erikson, we Americans continue to solidify our connections with the Baltic region while pioneering discoveries in genetics, biotechnology, information technology and renewable energy. Phew. Who knew a smelly, hairy explorer could spawn so much good?
Now, can you see why we celebrate this special occasion? Grab a buddy - bubble or otherwise - and have a very Happy Leif Erikson Day!
Email This Post
Print This Post
Discussion Area - Leave a Comment