A Peek At Icelandic Camp with Jesse
- Shaune Jonasson
- Mar 28
- 3 min read
By Shaune Jonasson
As the days lengthen with temperatures rising, dreams of summer arise. If you are the age of 8 – 17, here’s a suggestion for you: Icelandic Camp near Gimli, Manitoba. Take it from Jesse who has been both a camper and a Junior Councilor. It’s an experience you will never forget.
Icelandic Camp - Íslenskar Sumarbúðir
Icelandic Roots was presented with a short video from Jesse who spent her summer of 2024 as a Junior councilor at Iceland Camp in Gimli, Manitoba. Jesse’s video describes what a traditional day at camp is like. She has also attended other camps, so in comparison – oh, wait, there is no comparison!
The experience Jess had at Icelandic camp was “nothing like” anything else she has done. Jesse had attended a different summer camp, but in the city. The location was a significant difference, but also city camp held many activities indoors, whereas Icelandic Camp was mostly outdoor activities. Jesse preferred the outdoor environment more than the city camp.
Jesse heard about Icelandic camp through her family who has been involved with the camp for many years. Their fond remembrances inspired Jesse; she knew she wanted to go to Icelandic Camp.
Icelandic Camp is unique. The nurturing of the Icelandic heritage and culture to another generation is paramount in its mission.
One of the earlier criteria for attending Icelandic camp was having Icelandic lineage. That has changed and now all children between 8 and 17 years old are welcome to camp. Jesse does have an Icelandic link through her mother’s maternal line. Her Amma, Connie Magnusson-Schimnowski, is where Jesse’s Icelandic heritage stems from.
Attending camp for Jesse was an amazing experience. She and her family live a short drive from Gimli and the camp is located just outside of the town. Jesse often travels into Gimli with her family, so the area is familiar to her.
“From the people to the food there was nothing I didn’t like,” Jesse writes. Camp is a place where meeting new people was a highlight, especially as a camper. The great time she had as a camper enhanced her capabilities when she become a Junior councilor.
Councilors at Icelandic camp must be at least 15 years old and be responsible individuals. The role of Junior councilor was to help the senior councilors with the activities, but also to be capable of taking over when the senior councilor had to be away for a short break. Jesse took her responsibilities to heart and excelled at being that helpful role model.
The campers spend their six days learning about the language, including songs in Icelandic that are sung at a concert near the end of the camp. Learning about the sagas and Viking crafts enhances the understanding of the Icelandic culture.
Asking Jesse about her favorite part of camp wasn’t easily answered. The first thing she said was "I had so much fun.” She thinks everyone attending would agree to that statement. She added, “I catch myself singing a few lines here and there. It's fun because I get to think back to learning the song and how much we had to practice.”
I believe it is safe to say that Jesse strongly endorses anyone wanting to attend Icelandic Camp to do just that.
Thank you, Jesse, for taking the time to put together the video and telling us about the fun and enjoyment of Icelandic Camp last summer. May you forever remember the great time you had and, perhaps there will be more memories made as a future councilor of Icelandic Camp. Best of luck in your future endeavors.
ICELANDIC CAMP 2025
For 2025, Icelandic Camp is held from 27 July – 1 August. Registration is now open. Please click on the website: Icelandic Camp for details and the registration form. While you’re there, have a look at the many pictures posted of the campers enjoying their summer. What fun they are having!
SCHOLARSHIPS
For those thinking of attending camp, there are scholarships available.
Icelandic Roots is a proud sponsor of Icelandic Camp and has scholarships available. https://www.icelandiccamp.com/about-3
In addition, the local Icelandic Clubs or organization may provide scholarship opportunities. Please check in with your local organization. Be aware that deadlines may be imposed for applications.
MORE ABOUT ICELANDIC CAMP
Please click here if you are interested in reading more about Icelandic Camp:
Icelandic Camp 2025: Connecting Generations Through Icelandic Heritage
Icelandic Roots:
Lögberg-Heimskringla:
