A Key Early Win for National Recognition of Nordic Fest

An early Nordic Fest promotional postcard

For nearly 50 years, Nordic Fest has received national and international recognition for its many strengths in authenticity of its cultural celebration, as well as its affordable family fun that can be linked to its non-commercialism. That recognition is a testament to the Decorah community volunteer spirit that perpetuates Nordic Fest.

Such national recognition has been a part of Nordic Fest since its first year in 1967. That year, the National Organization of Travel Associations in Washington, DC, now called the U.S Travel Association, named Nordic Fest one of the Top 20 Tourism Events in the United States! 

This early significant national recognition was a key part of establishing the credibility of Nordic Fest and laying the foundation for its nearly 50 year history. 

This Top 20 distinction likely resulted from the right combination of efforts, which included:

• Extensive regional travel by Nordic Fest organizers to tourism shows that may have been more "standard" for event promotion in 1967 as electronic tools are today.
• Formal national media relations efforts by the Norwegian American Museum, building on their nationwide connections.
• Passionate publicity efforts by founder Phyllis Leseth, volunteer Jane Norris and others who wrote letters and made phone calls if budgets allowed to ensure coverage before, during and after the first Nordic Fest. 

What about Nordic Fest do you think is worthy of national and international recognition?