Bunads: An Important Part of Each Nordic Fest

Norma Wangsness and her daughter, Le Ann Wangsness-Bahr during the 2014 Nordic Fest parade. Photo courtesy of Marilee Reinertson Torres, http://i-mrt.blogspot.com/ 

Back on September 21, we last explored the topic of the Bunad Show, an important part of the authenticity of Nordic Fest since 1973.

Since the first Nordic Fest in 1967, local residents have been encouraged to sport authentic Norwegian costumes during Nordic Fest and many do, even during years of oppressive heat. 

The Wangsness family of Decorah often come to mind when people think of the colorful bunads of Nordic Fest. Using just one example from the photo above:

Le Ann Wangsness-Bahr of Maple Grove, Minn., originally from Decorah wears her "Princess" bunad from East Telemark. The black wool gaberdine fabric is embroidered in brilliant wool crewel and french knots. The loom-woven "Broad Belt" and head piece complete this bunad.

The bunad was created by Le Ann's mother Norma, who is among many in Decorah who have been answering the call to authenticity and warm welcome to guests to enjoy Nordic Fest and return for more than 50 years, always wearing a beautiful smile like Norma is pictured with above. 

How do those sporting these wool bunads much more appropriate for this time of year work during the soaring heat and humidity of Nordic Fest?

Norma shares a secret: she's sewn pockets into her bunad that each hold an ice packet to help cool her down! 

Thank you, Norma, Le, Linda and the entire Wangsness family for all you bring to the Bunad Show, Nordic Fest and all that you do for Decorah!