Nordic Fest: The First Promotional Brochure

The first Nordic Fest brochure, 1967

Last week's post on the 1999 recorded intentions of the Nordic Fest founders got me to open up the original 1967 Nordic Fest brochure pictured here as part of the #nordicfest50 research process. I found some interesting, relatively timeless content inside worthy of sharing in today's post: 

Decorah has a long and colorful Norwegian heritage. More than a century ago, Norwegian settlers were attracted to the area by wooded bluffs and scenic spring-fed streams. Soon Decorah became a cultural center for these Americans from Norway. Here they established Luther College in 1861, the Norwegian-American newspaper Decorah Posten in 1874, and the famed Norwegian-American Museum in 1877. The people of Decorah invite you to share this cultural heritage which provides an "Old World" atmosphere. The people say "Velkommen" to the Nordic Fest on July 27-30.

Things to Do at Nordic Fest

WATCH demonstrations of early Norwegian crafts.

HIKE on a nature trail or take a bus trip to scenic and historic sites.

NIBBLE fresh Norwegian pastries made while you watch.

SHOP for Scandinavian specialties in streets ablaze with flags and colorful costumes.

LISTEN to strolling musicians or a band concert (Sunday) in the park.

SAMPLE the best Norwegian cooking at many varied dining facilities.

FISH trout in a stream or watch and/or participate in unique athletic events.

VISIT homes where the elegance of the past still lingers.

WANDER on the modern campus of Luther College overlooking the scenic Upper Iowa river valley.

DRINK coffee in the Norwegian cabin at the Norwegian-American Museum.

VIEW the first national exhibition of rosemaling or an exhibit of local painting (begins Thursday). 

DANCE to old time music in the streets or watch folk dancers in native dress.

SEE the traditional parade of children in native costume on Thursday.

Many other attractions and events, too numerous to mention, are being planned.

The Decorah area offers a variety of modern living accommodations, including choice camp sights. Write to Nordic Fest, P.O. Box 364 or the Decorah Chamber of Commerce, Decorah, Iowa, 52101.