Nordic Fest: New Memories, Experiences and Fans Every Year

Many Nordic Fest stories include tales from people who have enjoyed the event every year, or at least wish they could be in attendance every year. The rich traditions of Nordic Fest and its tendency to attract repeat visitors makes it easy to forget that for nearly five decades, each Nordic Fest has been a first experience for some of the event's guests. 

This year, University of Northern Iowa running back and NFL prospect David Johnson attended his first Nordic Fest and won the Nordic Rock Throw, launching his 100 pound rock an impressive 37 feet, 7 inches. 

In a recent interview with Darin Svenson, David had this to share about his Nordic Rock throw and Nordic Fest experiences: 

"My girlfriend Meghan Brock, her mom is from Decorah, so she asked me to do it. She told me about the Nordic days. She asked if I wanted to throw a rock. I said, 'I've never thrown one, so I might as well try it.' We went up there. It was a fun time," said David Johnson.

"Do you have any training that compared to doing something like that, or was that maybe unique to things you've done in the past?" asked Darin Svenson.

"Definitely didn't have any training. Definitely a unique thing. The rock wasn't smooth, it had lumps in it. It was something new to me. It was fun!" 

First time Nordic Fests offer a special time to start a legacy of memories. What first time Nordic Fest experiences stand out in your mind for you, your friends or family?