More than a thousand years ago, Norse explorer Leif Erikson became the first European to set foot in North America, according to tradition. On October 9, 2025, the United States will mark Leif Erikson Day, as proclaimed by President Donald J. Trump.
The annual observance honors Erikson’s legacy of exploration and the contributions of Americans with Nordic heritage. President Trump’s proclamation highlights Erikson’s journey from Greenland across the Atlantic Ocean to what is now L’Anse aux Meadows in Newfoundland, Canada.
"More than a millennium ago, legendary Norse Viking Leif Erikson forever changed the course of history when he fearlessly embarked on a daring expedition into the unknown, becoming the first European to ever set foot in the New World. This Leif Erikson Day, we summon his courage, we honor his enduring legacy of adventure and exploration, and we renew our resolve to advance the limits of human achievement," Trump stated.
The proclamation notes that Erikson’s story began in Greenland, where he was inspired by tales of distant lands. Guided by his Christian faith, he and his crew sailed over 1,800 miles through challenging conditions before reaching North America.
"With courage in his veins and faith in his God, Erikson realized his purpose when he reached the shores of a land he called ‘Vinland,’ known today as L’Anse aux Meadows at the northern tip of Newfoundland, Canada," according to the statement.
Erikson’s voyage is described as a catalyst for future exploration, ultimately leading to settlements such as Jamestown, Virginia, over six centuries later. The proclamation also connects Erikson’s spirit of discovery to other milestones in American history, including westward expansion and space exploration.
"Leif Erikson’s triumphant spirit of exploration has continued to define the American story — from the pioneers who tamed the Western frontier to the Apollo 11 astronauts who proudly planted the Stars and Stripes on the Moon. His legacy lives on through the millions of Americans who proudly share in his Nordic ancestry. These patriots have embodied the same character of courage and resolve, and have immensely enriched our history, our culture, and our communities. My Administration continues to strengthen our bonds with the proud Nordic nations from which Erikson came. Together, with our allies in Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Iceland, and Finland, we are advancing fair trade and promoting peace through strength — ensuring a safer and more prosperous future for America and the North Atlantic," Trump said.
Leif Erikson Day was established by a joint resolution of Congress (Public Law 88-566) in 1964, authorizing the president to proclaim October 9 each year as a day to recognize Nordic-American heritage.
President Trump concluded: "NOW, THEREFORE, I, DONALD J. TRUMP, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim October 9, 2025, as Leif Erikson Day. I call upon all Americans to celebrate the achievements and contributions of Nordic Americans to our Nation with appropriate ceremonies, activities, and programs."
