Ólavsøka: the Faroe Islands' National Day in 2027

The Faroe Islands' National Day is 29 July. Ólavsøka is celebrated over two days in Tórshavn, on 28 and 29 July, including in 2027 according to Visit Tórshavn's calendar. For visitors, it is a chance to experience Faroese singing, national dress and the gathering around the celebration.

Source: Visit Tórshavn: Ólavsøka 2027. Checked 13 November 2026.

What is Ólavsøka?

The celebration brings people to the capital. Many wear Faroese national dress, and traditions include chain dancing, singing and cultural events.

You can attend as a visitor without owning a traditional costume. Watch how participants move and sing first, and follow the hosts' guidance if you want to join in.

Sources: Visit Tórshavn and Visit Faroe Islands: the annual celebration.

Dates and planning for 2027

The two dates are published in the official calendar. That does not mean all concerts, exhibitions and meeting times have already been fixed.

Source: Visit Tórshavn calendar, checked 13 November 2026.

Vaglið, singing and chain dancing

Vaglið is a central square in Tórshavn. Visit Faroe Islands describes the midnight singing on 29 July and Faroese chain dancing as recurring traditions here. The square's address is 4 Vaglið, Tórshavn.

Find it on a map before heading out in the evening. Agree on a meeting place away from the busiest crowd if you are travelling together. With children, a shorter experience earlier in the day may be easier than waiting until late.

This describes the tradition; use the annual programme for the exact arrangements in 2027.

Source: Visit Faroe Islands: Vaglið.

Transport from the airport and around the islands

Strandfaraskip Landsins, SSL, lists route 300 between Tórshavn, the airport and Sørvágur. Find your arrival and return connections in its official travel information before choosing other outings.

Visit Tórshavn states that regional buses and ferries follow Sunday timetables on both celebration days. Use the holiday timetable instead of an ordinary Wednesday or Thursday departure.

A useful starting point is to keep your travel day free of events you would be upset to miss. Save your accommodation address and relevant connection on your phone.

Sources: SSL and Visit Tórshavn's festival travel information. Checked 13 November 2026.

Food, shopping and a break

Visit Tórshavn warns of changed opening arrangements and closed businesses on the holidays. Buy essentials ahead of time and ask your chosen restaurant to confirm its opening and your reservation.

Plan a break before everyone becomes tired. Have a simple breakfast option and something to eat between events. This makes the day less dependent on finding a table at the first place you pass.

Source: Visit Tórshavn: practical note for Ólavsøka.

What should you pack?

Visit Tórshavn's packing guide recommends layers, a waterproof outer jacket and warm clothing even in summer. Choose footwear for a day that combines walking and standing.

Keep the warm layer where you can reach it without emptying your bag. A local forecast close to departure helps with the final choices.

Source: Visit Tórshavn: What to pack.

Do you need a visa?

An ordinary Schengen visa is not valid for the Faroe Islands by itself. The Danish Immigration Service also states that valid Danish residence permits and certain permits or residence cards from other EU and Schengen countries can allow visa-free entry when they entitle the holder to enter and reside in Denmark.

Requirements depend on nationality and document type. Use New to Denmark: entry to the Faroe Islands for your situation. Checked 13 November 2026.

If you travel via Copenhagen

Visit Faroe Islands describes direct flights from Copenhagen. If you add an overnight stay on the way, use our hotel directory to find addresses, café directory for a break and museum directory for a visit before or after your trip.

Schedule the city visit on a day with enough time for the airport and check your actual flight departure. These directories cover Copenhagen.

Source: Visit Faroe Islands: getting there by air.

Official sources

Checked 13 November 2026.

Visit Tórshavn: Ólavsøka 2027.

Visit Faroe Islands: annual celebration.

Visit Faroe Islands: Vaglið.

SSL: buses and ferries.

Visit Tórshavn: packing guide.

Danish Immigration Service: entry to the Faroe Islands.

Visit Faroe Islands: flight connections.