Fest founded to promote Decorah, area: guest post

The first Nordic Fest program in 1967

The following copyright editorial appeared in the Thursday, May 23, 1991 

edition of the Decorah Newspapers. Used with permission. 

Dear Editor,

As past and present board member of the Nordic Fest, in response to comments made recently, we feel it is appropriate to review the philosophy of the Fest.

Nordic Fest was founded as a cultural, non-commercial family orientated event celebration of the Decorah area's ethnic background.

It was planned to promote the attractions of our beautiful city and scenic area, and to be an event for families to enjoy at minimum expense. For 25 years, the generosity of the community has made this possible. In return, Decorah has received favorable free publicity throughout the nation. Unquestionably, increased tourism has made a noticeable impact upon our economy.

Many questionnaires completed by Fest visitors indicate their desire to return to the area because of the warm hospitality experience and the absence of commercialism and price gouging during the Fest. Therefore, local businesses can expect profits from these forthcoming visits. Some merchants consider their donations to the Fest as an investment to the future of their business. 

Since the formation of the Fest, Luther College, Vesterheim and Decorah Community Schools have been totally supportive. Vesterheim has always sponsored displays and demonstrations of Norwegian crafts, including the prestigious national folk arts exhibitions - all at no cost to the public. The museum also has brought and paid for numerous artisans to demonstrate during the Fest. Vesterheim should not be criticized for charging the customary, modest entrance fee to its complex. This is one of its sources of operating revenue.

Luther makes its entire campus available for the Fest, including much-needed dormitory space. The college furnishes shuttle buses and driers to and from the campus, personnel to guide the popular Troll Walk, and offers lectures and displays. In addition, the Dorian Opera Theater enhances the Fest program, with its professionally produced musicals. 

Each year at the annual meeting the board asses the operation of the Fest and strongly encourages suggestions from the public.

Jane Bullard, '91 Fest President, and board members past and present