Festival of Icelanders and Newfoundlanders

Memory of the Iceland Fishermen

The Festival of Icelanders and Newfoundlanders has been perpetuating for over eighty years the memory of the fishermen of Paimpol who, from the 19th century until the mid-20th century, embarked each spring for perilous cod fishing campaigns in the waters of Iceland and Newfoundland. Nearly 2,000 sailors from the region perished at sea during these expeditions. The tradition of the Blessing of the Icelanders dates back to 1855 and is one of the oldest maritime celebrations in Brittany.

Blessing, Mass, and Wreath Laying

The day begins with the Blessing of the Icelanders, a religious ceremony blending faith, memory, and the sea. A mass in honor of the Icelanders is celebrated, followed by the laying of a wreath at sea in memory of the lost sailors. This solemn and moving moment connects the Paimpol community to its maritime past and pays tribute to the courage of the fishermen's families.

Parade of Celtic Circles and Fest-Noz

In the afternoon, a grand parade of Celtic circles and bagadoù crosses the streets and quays of Paimpol. Among the participating circles: the Cercle Celtique Anjela-Duval of Paimpol, the Korriganed Panvrid of Pommerit-le-Vicomte, Fleur d'Aulne of Saint-Alban, and Sterenn ar Goued of La Méaugon. The Bagad de Tréguier and the Sonerien da Viken accompany the procession. Breton dance performances follow one another on Quai Morand, culminating in the triumph of the musicians at 6 p.m. The day ends with a fest-noz on the port.