Barnetog: a 50 Year Nordic Fest Tradition

The 2007 Nordic Fest Barnetog, or Children's Parade

In Norway, it is a longstanding tradition to have local children march before the King on Syttende Mail, Norway's Constitution Day each May 17 in a procession known by the Norwegian word "barnetog."

Since the first Nordic Fest in 1967, this tradition has been honored with a Barnetog that has often just proceeded or been an early entry in the Nordic Fest Grand Parade.

In an 1967 letter that went out to Decorah area youth promoting the first Barnetog, there were actually two opportunities for children to march:

• A Barnetog formally kicked off the first Nordic Fest when local youth marched from Rock Island Park (next to the current Fjeltsul Funeral Home) to the Winneshiek County Courthouse Square on Thursday, July 27, 1967. Once the youth arrived at the Courthouse Square, Opening Ceremonies began.
• A second barnetog in 1967 marched from Rock Island Park to the Norwegian-American Museum 30 minutes before the start of the Grand Parade on Saturday, July 29, 1967.
• These first two parades were chaired by Mr. and Mrs. Gary Engebretson. 

In this letter, all local youth were encouraged to please march. Dressing in Norwegian costumes was encouraged. The basic format of the Barnetog has remained the same for nearly 50 years.

Did you march in the Nordic Fest Barnetog? Share your memories in the comments section below.