God Jul!

As the Christmas holiday takes place this week, it can be nice to think about a steamy Nordic Fest day gone by, or one that will happen at the 2015 event. The same can be said of thinking about Christmas weather during Nordic Fest. 

In 1985, the theme for the 19th annual Nordic Fest was God Jul i Juli, which roughly translates to Merry Christmas in July. The blue 8.5" x 11" program was decorated in nisse motif by the late Laura Hoeg, renowned for her nisse creations like the one pictured above. 

Laura's work adorns many a home and business window in Decorah during Nordic Fest and throughout the year. Her work also adorns many homes of those nationwide who will always feel deeply connected to Decorah. 

Some of the specific Christmas-themed activities at the 1985 Nordic Fest included:

• The Art of Making Julekake (Christmas Bread) and Risengrynsgrot (Rice Porridge) food demonstration from Doris Barnaal
• Silas Dayton 1856 building served as the Christmas Store at Vesterheim
• Christmas in Norway slide show
• A Christmas-themed parade 
• Christmas craft and decoration making demonstrations

What are your favorite Norwegian-inspired Christmas traditions? 

Tune in next week for Norwegian recipes to assist in your winter hosting and enjoy the new year with.