Welcome to the Fest, and don't be a stranger: guest post

The following Decorah Newspapers copyright staff editorial appeared in conjunction with the 1989 Nordic Fest. Used with permission. 

To those first-time "Norwegians," the entire community of Decorah would like to welcome you to the 23rd annual Nordic Fest celebration and hope you enjoy your stay. To those veteran Fest-goers, it's great to have you back.

"Dreams of Norway," this year's Fest theme, officially will get underway at 10:30 a.m. Friday in front of the Winneshiek County Courthouse, and the opening ceremony is one event that shouldn't be missed. All the color and pageantry of the Fest comes to life, and this year's ceremony will include a special appearance by renowned accordionist Myron Floren, the grand marshal of this year's parade.

From there on out, Festers can enjoy three days of activities and good food, with the closing ceremonies taking place at 3 p.m. Sunday, also at the courthouse square.

While the Fest has changed and evolved over the course of two decades, it's core remains solid. What the Nordic Fest offers is good, clean fun for the entire family. This is the way Fest organizers want it to remain, and is one aspect of the celebration that keeps bringing people back to Decorah during the last weekend in July.

They like the fact they do not have to contend with, or expose their children to, people who have had one too many drinks and making a food of themselves.

If any questions should arise during your stay, please contact the main information center located under the large tent near City Hall, and in case of an emergency stop at any telephone and dial 911. 

There are an endless number of things to do at the Fest, we also encourage visitors to take some time out to view the beauty of Decorah and the surrounding area. When you mention Iowa to people who live in different states or countries, their vision is one of endless miles of flat crop land. Many are shocked when they first drive into the Oneota Valley and see what a beautiful community we have here.

We can't count the number of times we've heard visitors exclaim, "I had no idea Iowa could be this beautiful."

Well, it can be and it is. And, perhaps more importantly, the people of Iowa are even more beautiful. They are friendly, sincere and will go out of their way to make strangers feel welcome.

During the three-day Nordic Fest, there are no strangers in Decorah. Enjoy yourself, be careful and thanks for coming. Hope to see you again next year.