Leif Erikson Day is an annual observance that occurs on October 9. It honors Leif Erikson, the Norse explorer who is credited with bringing the first Nordic people to America around the year 1000. The holiday has been adopted by a variety of states throughout the 20th century and represents a celebration of Norwegian explorers, the spirit of discovery, and the contributions of Norwegians in America. The federal government of the United States first recognized Leif Erikson Day in 1935, as a result of House Joint Resolution 26, which had been introduced during the 74th Congress (1935–1936) by Congressman Harry Sauthoff of Wisconsin. The Congress, by joint resolution (Public Law 88-566) approved on September 2, 1964, has authorized the President of the United States to proclaim October 9th of each year as “Leif Erikson Day” . Therefore, Leif Erikson Day is on October 9, 2023.