Thank you for purchasing a Nordic Fest 50th Anniversary Book and DVD

You made this progress possible: mange takk!

Your purchase of the book and DVD combo entitled "Nordic Fest: 50 Years Strong" is most appreciated.Your role in making Nordic Fest 50 years strong through your volunteering, attending and support is even more appreciated!

The Nordic Fest 50th Anniversary Book project team recently presented a check to Vesterheim Norwegian American Museum for $8,334.24 from book sale proceeds. This donation funds the baseline needs for Vesterheim to properly review and eventually prepare the Nordic Fest archives as part of the Museum collection. Your purchase(s) of the book and DVD combo made this gift possible! Mange takk!

A limited number of copies of the "Nordic Fest: 50 Years Strong" book and DVD are now available in the Vesterheim Museum Store in case you need Christmas or other upcoming gifts. 

If you have a personal Nordic Fest story you would like to share that you've added to your copy for a future blog post, please submit it to nordicfest50 at gmail dot com. The Nordic Fest 50th anniversary project blog with dozens of stories that supplement your book content will remain available at http://nordicfest50.blogspot.com. 

Since April 2014, weekly Nordic Fest stories and project highlights have been posted to this space. This blog will remain up as long as possible, but posts will be less frequent moving forward.

Until then, make your plans to visit Decorah throughout the year and attend the 2017 Nordic Fest. Mange takk again for being the core of the celebration of the 50th Nordic Fest! 

Skål,
Dawn Svenson Holland
Volunteer researcher, author and project co-chair

Nordic Fest 50 Book/DVD Project Proceeds Donated

The team of volunteers who worked on the book/DVD combo “Nordic Fest: 50 Years Strong,”represented here by project co-chair Erik Anundsen, right, presented Chris Johnson, President/CEO of Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum, left, with a check for $8,334.24. The check represents proceeds from sales of the commemorative book/DVD combo through the end of August. 

This amount, made possible by the project’s donors and 700 book/DVD purchasers, will be used to fund the baseline costs for Vesterheim to review the extensive Nordic Fest archives over the course of the next two years and properly preserve them, making them available for future researchers. 

A limited number of copies still remain and are available in the Vesterheim Museum Store.

Nordic Fest: 50 Years Strong Book & DVD Combo Now Available for Sale at Vesterheim

The book and DVD combo entitled "Nordic Fest: 50 Years Strong" is now available for sale at Vesterheim Norwegian American Museum Store, 502 West Water Street in Decorah.

The Museum Store is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily in Decorah. The book will be placed online at a later date. 

Prior to, during and immediately after Nordic Fest, approximately 70% of the first print order sold. The remaining copies will be available at Vesterheim while supplies last.  

Stay tuned to this space for future announcements on the Nordic Fest archive project at Vesterheim. 

While Announcements Come Together, Revisiting Thanks

It was 50 years ago this fall that members of the Decorah Jaycees and the Norwegian American Museum started developing their plans for the 50th annual Nordic Fest the following July. For five decades, Nordic Fest has filled the last full weekend in July with memories to last a lifetime. 

The volunteer-driven project, "Nordic Fest: 50 Years Strong" attempted to celebrate a sense of the magic of this 50 year event in a 304 page full color book with space to record the reader's own favorite memories, as well as a companion DVD. 

Watch this space for more announcements soon on the start of the Nordic Fest archives being established at Vesterheim Norwegian American Museum, history project results and impact, as well as the location where you may still pickup your copy of the book and DVD combo entitled, "Nordic Fest: 50 Years Strong."

While these final details come together, it's worth taking another moment to thank at least the categories of people who, just like when Nordic Fest itself was being created 50 years ago, came together, rolled up their sleeves and pitched in for the good of the community. 

Mange tusen takk igjen to:

• Book team members Erik Anundsen, Adrienne Leseth Coffeen, Cam Leseth Forde, Paul Hexom, Josh Holland, Deb Paulson/Zelda Productions, Harley Refsal, Tyler Rinken, as well as Don & Julie Wurtzel.
• The many people and organizations who donated the use of their articles and photographs to ensure the beautiful historical and visual story of Nordic Fest could be told on its 50th anniversary. 
• The dozens of community members who participated in interviews, helped check details, made needed connections and more.
•  The team at Vesterheim Norwegian American Museum who are taking on the Nordic Fest archives in follow up to this project.
• Everyone who bought a book or books to share this story and ensure the success of the project. 

A Note on Dr. Marion Nelson

Dr. Marion and Lila Nelson, photo courtesy Vesterheim

The following letter to the editor appeared in an August 2016 issue of the Decorah Newspapers and is used here with permission:

Dear Editor,

Congratulations to Decorah on a great 50^th Nordic Fest, and mange takk to everyone who purchased a 50^th anniversary Nordic Fest book and DVD! Some copies are still available as you plan Christmas gifts and more. Contact nordicfest 50 at gmail dot com with any questions.

Nordic Fest volunteers dedicate massive behind the scenes passion and effort towards creating the enjoyment of this event. These volunteers are the core of Nordic Fest for all 50 years. For every moment enjoyed at Nordic Fest over 50 years, hundreds of volunteer hours have been committed behind the scenes toward making those experiences possible.

Whether you’ve loved every moment of your Nordic Fests or were upset by a few moments in one parade, consider raising your hand for the Nordic Fest board when the time comes this fall for elections. The experience will likely help you appreciate even more the 50 years of stunning enjoyment community benefit enabled by board and other volunteers.

With that said, the perfectly imperfect process of volunteering means there are times when clarifications are in order due to unintended oversights. During Opening Ceremonies and the Nordic Fest parade, one of the seven Nordic Fest founders, Dr. Marion Nelson of Vesterheim Norwegian American Museum was inadvertently left off of the recognition list.

Marion became the director of what was then the Norwegian American Museum in 1965 and helped the fledgling Nordic Fest ensure authenticity in its planning via the Museum connection and his deep scholarship and passion. His many Nordic Fest contributions include development of the first Folk Art School at Vesterheim for the first Fest in 1967, selection of the last full weekend in July for Nordic Fest due to its historically traveled and rain-free status, and a Folk Music Festival that enhanced Nordic Fest for many years.

Marion and his wife Lila remained an important ongoing part of the Nordic Fest team until their retirement from Vesterheim in 1991 after the 25^th Nordic Fest. Although Marion passed away in 2000, his wife Lila served as a key resource during the research project for this book.

The recognized founding Jaycees – Jerry Aulwes, Mike Dahly, Harry Olson, Darrell Pierce and Gary Svenson (my father), as well as community member and Vesterheim board member Phyllis Leseth all made massive contributions to that first Nordic Fest. Thanks for helping me note that Dr. Marion Nelson did as well.

Regards,

Dawn Svenson Holland

Cedar Rapids, Iowa

Guest post: Nordic Fest 50th Anniversary Book & DVD Well Worth It

Editor's Note: While book sales are currently paused to allow for the Nordic Fest fiscal year end, watch this space for more information about where to get your book soon! 

The following letter about the project appeared in the July 22, 2016 Decorah Newspapers and is used with permission. Thank you, Cam! 

Dear Editor:

Decorah is about to make headlines again. Nordic Fest is celebrating its 50th year. As a special tribute to commemorate Decorah’s 50-year celebration of all things Norwegian and to preserve its history, Dawn Svenson-Holland has written a book called “Nordic Fest: 50 Years Strong.”  

Dawn’s father, Gary, was a member of the original board that started planning events a year before the first Fest in July of 1967. His records, files, and pictures were the backbone of the book. Her additional research resulted in many interviews where people shared information, anecdotes, and memories from past Fests. The book is 304 pages long and is filled with details and pictures from each year of the Fest along with chapters dedicated to specific topics such as the planning the first Nordic Fest, Vesterheim, and the Nordic Dancers. There is even a DVD with footage of the first Nordic Fest that is included in the purchase of the book.

All profits will go to Vesterheim so they will be able to archive, catalog, and permanently store all Nordic Fest records.

I urge everyone to buy a copy of this new book, which documents the efforts of the community in putting on an ethnic celebration that has brought thousands of people to our town. Residents have been supportive of the Nordic Fest in so many ways. Working at booths, decorating windows, being in the parade, putting on church suppers, preparing Norwegian delicacies, watching the Nordic Dancers, listening to the Luren Singers, participating in races, dancing in the streets, seeing the fireworks, and enjoying the many musicians and entertainers are some of the many ways we’ve showcased our community with visitors, friends and family. 

The focus of the Nordic Fest has always been Decorah’s Scandinavian roots so exhibits at Vesterheim, indoors and out, have been popular. Handicrafts from all over the U.S. are entered in competitions in folk art. Each year there are countless volunteers who make the Fest work.  The book gives an overview of the complexity of the Fest with all its parts and gives credit and recognition to all the groups who make the Fest the success it has been for 50 years.

This book is a valuable history in one volume and well worth the price. I urge you to buy this keepsake book. Anyone who has been involved in the Fest or enjoyed the Fest as a visitor will be impressed and fascinated by all the details. Thank you, Dawn, for taking on the monumental task of documenting the Nordic Fest. 

Cam Forde

Decorah

Nordic Fest 50th Anniversary Book Project Fun Facts

The Nordic Fest 50th anniversary book project continues as plans are underway to establish the Nordic Fest archives with Vesterheim Norwegian American Museum. 

As the book team knows from the recent years of effort on this project, this is a major undertaking. To Jennifer and the entire Vesterheim team, your efforts are truly appreciated! 

Some copies of the book and DVD combo are still available for sale here;  http://www.nordicfest.com/site/nordic-fest-50-book.html

The following are a few interesting notes from the project to date:

1. To date, shipments of purchased books have gone to 21 U.S states.
2.  One 90 years young Decorah native received a surprise book and return trip to Decorah for the 50th Nordic Fest.
3. The United States Jaycee Headquarters in Chesterfield, Missouri have added a book to their archives in honor of Nordic Fest starting as a Jaycee project. 
4. Decorah's own Nordic Dancers presented a book to the US Embassy in Norway during their post-Nordic Fest tour of Norway. 
5. The Norwegian-American Historical Association at St. Olaf College added a book to their collection. 
6. Many area residents, Decorah and Nordic Fest fans, as well as businesses and organizations made multiple book purchases, enabling the success of the project. 

Mange tusen takk, everyone! 

What Nordic Fest Memories are Going in the Back of Your Book?

What favorite Nordic Fest memories are you writing in the back of your copy of "Nordic Fest: 50 Years Strong," or what new journeys has reading the book taken you on?

One book reader shared that a photo from the first Nordic Fest in the book reminded her of a bunad her late mother made for her. This Decorah resident wore the bunad to serve lemonade at the Porter House Museum during the first Nordic Fest, which also marked the first time the Museum grounds were open to the public. 

When this Decorah resident locates this family heirloom bunad, it will be passed on to her granddaughter, who is named in her mother's honor. Nordic Fest traditions continue on indeed!

If you still would like a copy of the "Nordic Fest: 50 Years Strong" book and DVD combination, visit the Nordic Fest website to place an online order. Orders may be placed for pickup at the Decorah Area Chamber or shipment to you. 

All project proceeds support the permanent placement and proper organization of the Nordic Fest archives with the event's 50-year partner, Vesterheim Norwegian American Museum. 

If you would like to submit your favorite Nordic Fest memories for a future guest blog post here, please comment below or email nordic fest 50 at gmail dot com. 

Nordic Fest: 50 Years Strong: Some Copies Still Available

Some copies of the book and DVD combo entitled, "Nordic Fest: 50 Years Strong" are still available online at www.nordicfest.com for $50 each. Proceeds support the project to permanently place the Nordic Fest archives with Vesterheim Norwegian American Museum starting in late 2016.

This historical Nordic Fest retrospective features 304 full color pages, a section at the back to record your own Nordic Fest memories, and a DVD with movie footage from the first Nordic Fest in 1967, as well as a digitized copy of a promotional video from the 25th Nordic Fest. 

Purchased books may either be picked up at the Decorah Area Chamber at no charge or shipped by the project at a cost starting at $8 for one book. 

Book purchaser Rebecca Hanna said, "It was delightful reading about all the Nordic Fests of the past 50 years and seeing all the photos of so many Decorah residents and volunteers that I happen to recognize. Even though I wasn’t present at all the fests, I made the first one and the last thirty-some years. I’m glad I picked up this keepsake book so I can keep reliving these fond moments from the past.” 

Nordic Fest 50th Anniversary Book Project: Preliminary Results

What a wonderful 50th Nordic Fest just wrapped up in Decorah!

Watch this space for additional reporting soon, but here's a look at preliminary success indicators for the Nordic Fest 50th Anniversary Book project. You made this success happen: mange tusen takk!

1. Before anyone had seen the results of the project (first available to the community on July 16), incredible community volunteers and Nordic Fest fans invested in 420 books and DVDs.
2. The Decorah Area Chamber of Commerce staff and volunteers made significant contributions to this project by providing a local presale purchase as well as book pickup location. 
3. Early project supporters donated more than $5,000 to the project. This allowed for the following project expenses to be covered prior to the start of book sales:
• Professional transcribing of interviews
• Purchase of a DVD burner, DVDs and cases to accompany each book 
• Partial book layout expenses
4. Massive in-kind support was dedicated to this project by volunteers who researched and wrote the book, edited it, wrote the introduction, scanned the photos, produced the DVD and more. 

Nordic Fest 50th Anniversary Book and DVD $50 Rate Extended Through Nordic Fest

In appreciation for everyone who has made 50 years of Nordic Fest in Decorah possible, the $50 rate for the limited edition book and DVD has been extended through Nordic Fest July 28-30, while supplies last.  

Books are available online at www.nordicfest.com and at Nordic Fest Headquarters at the Decorah Area Chamber of Commerce, 507 West Water Street throughout the event. There is an additional fee if shipping of a book or books by Nordic Fest is needed. Organizers report book sales are strong.

Nordic Fest hosted its first event in 1967 as a Decorah Area Junior Chamber (Jaycee) and Vesterheim joint project focused on the authentic Norwegian cultural connections present in Decorah. Nordic Fest remains uniquely nonprofit and noncommercial across its 50 year history. Nordic Fest continues due to the dedication of a wide array of community and Vesterheim volunteers, as well as the support of the Decorah Area Chamber of Commerce.  

All project proceeds will be given to Vesterheim Norwegian American Museum to support their intake and proper organization of the Nordic Fest archives during 2016 and 2017..

The project also has a blog at http://nordicfest50.blogspot.com.

The full 50^th Nordic Fest brochure is also now available at www.nordicfest.com.  

Fifty Years of Nordic Fest! Guest post by Dr. Elwin D. Farwell

Dr. Elwin D. Farwell on campus during his tenure as Luther College President, 1963-1981.
Photo courtesy Luther College Archives, Creative Commons License, https://www.flickr.com/photos/luthercollegearchives/ 

Editor's Note: With the week of the 50th Nordic Fest here, the Nordic Fest 50 team is honored to publish this guest post from Dr. Elwin D. Farwell, who served as Luther College President as the first Nordic Fest came together in 1967. Dr. Farwell and his wife Helen set a beautiful tone for Nordic Fest being good for Luther College and Luther College being good for Nordic Fest across 50 years. 

Fifty years, half a century of Nordic Fest! Each one distinctive and a showcase for Decorah. I recall Dale Ahern, newspaper editor lamenting all the events of May in Decorah, then nothing until September. We really needed some event to bridge the long summer months. And so the birth of Nordic Fest! 

Each year it is a new experience - an opportunity for Decorah to showcase its beauty and uniqueness. We who live here are blessed throughout the years but in late July we can share our quality of life with visitors from far and wide. And they come!

We who live in this beautiful valley named for an Indian chef really are a privileged people. We have the Upper Iowa River, recreational facilities, golf courses, exceptional schools - Luther College and nearby, in Calmar, the fine Northeast Iowa Community College.  

Helen and I thank God for the people of Luther who invited us to leave California and come here 53 years ago. Our California friends thought we were crazy for leaving that climate. But they were wrong! 

In preparation for Nordic Fest, we share generously and put on our finest hospitality. The parade is one of my favorite events. I appreciate the marching bands, the floats with queens and the comic characters. 

This huge crater - the valley of the Upper Iowa becomes a time during Nordic Fest where we show to visitors the best of life. Merchants display a welcome and show their best with those drawn to the life and culture of the town. And everyone cooperates to make the Fest better each year. 

We consider living here a privilege. Decorah is a special place - made so by special people - not just Norwegians but adopted English and Germans, Danes and even Swedes!  There is a fine ecumenical spirit that visitors sense when they come, and it is valid because that is how we live, what we believe, and what we share. 

Nordic Fest 50th Anniversary Book Presale Rate Continues through Wednesday, July 27

Area residents and Nordic Fest fans have until Wednesday, July 27 to purchase their copy of the Nordic Fest 50^th anniversary book and DVD entitled, “Nordic Fest: 50 Years Strong” at the special rate of $50, 23% off of its regular price.

Books are available online at www.nordicfest.com and via cash or check at the Decorah Area Chamber of Commerce, 507 West Water Street during regular business hours. There is an additional fee if shipping of a book or books by Nordic Fest is needed.

"It was delightful reading about all the Nordic Fests of the past 50 years and seeing all the photos of so many Decorah residents and volunteers that I happen to recognize. Even though I wasn’t present at all the fests, I made the first one and the last thirty-some years. I’m glad I picked up this keepsake book so I can keep reliving these fond moments from the past,” said book purchaser and Vesterheim Norwegian American Museum Folk Art Gold Medalist Rebecca Hanna.

The 50^th Nordic Fest also marks the 50^th year of the Folk Art School and Exhibition at Vesterheim. www.vesterheim.org.

Nordic Fest first took place in 1967 as a Decorah Area Junior Chamber (Jaycee) and Vesterheim joint project focused on the authentic Norwegian cultural connections present in Decorah. Nordic Fest remains uniquely nonprofit and noncommercial across its 50 year history. Nordic Fest continues due to the dedication of a wide array of Vesterheim and community volunteers, as well as the support of the Decorah Area Chamber of Commerce.  

All project proceeds will be given to Vesterheim Norwegian American Museum to support their intake and proper organization of the Nordic Fest archives during the fall of 2016 and the spring of 2017.

The full 50^th Nordic Fest brochure is also now available at www.nordicfest.com.  

1991 Promotional Nordic Fest Video

The 50th Nordic Fest is almost here! Where does the time go?

In celebration of this special anniversary year, today's post looks back at a promotional video recently transferred from VHS from 25 years ago - promotion of the 1991 Nordic Fest.

A few hairstyles may have changed, but the core strengths of Nordic Fest remain:

• Genuine cultural heritage celebration
• Non-commercial fun with tremendous nonprofit benefit, especially over the event's 50 years 
• All with the backdrop of the stunning Driftless area of Decorah, native home and chosen home for many wonderful people who have made 50 years of Nordic Fest possible

See you in Decorah soon! 

Nordic Fest: Book Creation Team Kudos

The original Nordic Fest organizers at a planning meeting in 1967. Photo courtesy and copyright Vesterheim Holm Collection. Used with permission. 

Since Nordic Fest planning began in 1966 for the first year in 1967, its greatest successes have been rooted in strong team work. The content creation team for this book continued that beautiful tradition since work first began on this project in 2013. 

The following people made the book many will soon hold in their hands possible through hundreds upon hundreds of hours of meticulous research, photo scanning, and more details than could possibly be counted in one blog post. They are listed in alphabetical order:

• Erik Anundsen, co-chair and publisher. Erik's work ethic and passion for all things history are matched only by his deep expertise and sense of humor. You are blessing to work with and to call friend!
• Paul Hexom, passionate Decorah advocate, lover of history and great friend. Thanks for your great caption work! 
• Josh Holland, partner and love of my life. From digitizing cassette tapes to calming me down and everything in between, your encouragement and help sustain me. 
• Cam Leseth Forde and Adrienne Leseth Coffeen for preparing a perfect founder's dedication and introduction, and for being incredible supportive friends throughout this process! 
• Deb Paulson of Zelda Productions, layout artist and designer extraordinaire. Your skill set is stunning and your input so critical towards making this book something people will want to treasure forever. You rock, Deb! 
• Harley Refsal, translator. While I am sorry I didn't practice more what you so expertly taught in your classes, you are a living celebration of Norwegian culture and I am honored by your master touch on this project! 
• Tyler Rinken, video production expert. The first Nordic Fest movie preparation in your expert hands could not be a better fit. Thanks for bringing your passion to the team! 
• Don & Julie Wurtzel, editors. Dad taught me early on how you both are a beautiful combination of friends and role models. You still are and always will be. Your community-minded touch and beautiful input throughout this process deeply strengthened the finished project. You are awesome! 

It is one of the great honors of my lifetime to work with this amazing team! 

Nordic Fest 50th Anniversary Book Presale Rate Extended, Nordic Fest Sale Details Announced

Nordic Fest 50^th Anniversary Book Presale Rate Extended, 

Nordic Fest Book Sale Details Announced

In celebration of the many contributions by the people of Decorah to Nordic Fest over its 50-year history, the 23% off presale rate of $50 for the book entitled, “Nordic Fest: 50 Years Strong” has been extended through the end of the day on Wednesday, July 27.  

The 304-page full-color, landscape format book includes detailed history, space for recording your favorite Nordic Fest memories, and a DVD with a digitized 1991 promotional video, as well as  movie footage from the first event in 1967 donated in memory of filmmaker LaVerne Hanssen of Grinnell, Iowa by his family.  

The book will be available via cash or check at the Decorah Area Chamber of Commerce and online with a credit card at www.nordicfest.com at its presale rate through Wednesday, July 27.

During the 50^th Nordic Fest, there will be a table at the Nordic Fest Headquarters at the Decorah Area Chamber that offers cash, check and credit card purchases at the rate of $65 per book.

Those who have already placed a preorder of a 50^th anniversary Nordic Fest book will receive an email or letter when delivery is fully confirmed. Presale pickup will be at the Decorah Area Chamber of Commerce.  

Proceeds from the Nordic Fest 50^th anniversary book sales support the permanent placement and proper organization of the Nordic Fest archives at Vesterheim Norwegian American Museum.

Questions may be directed to nordicfest 50 at gmail dot com. 

1967 "My Impression of Norway" Poster Contest Winners

1967 Nordic Fest Barnetog, photo courtesy John Nelson

Involvement of youth in summer holidays is a beautiful tradition. Many Decorah young people, including possibly ones pictures above, were involved in the first Nordic Fest in 1967. The following article appeared in the Monday, May 22, 1967 issue of the Decorah Public Opinion and is used with permission:

"My Impression of Norway" was the theme of an art work contest in which 190 children in the Decorah Elementary Schools participated.

Mrs. Thorpe Running, third grade teacher at the West Side Elementary School, chaired the contest, which was sponsored by the Nordic Fest Steering Committee. 

Prizes in each grade level will be given with $5 for first, $2 for second and $1 for third.

Winning entries will be displayed in downtown store windows during the Nordic Fest.

First Grade: First prize, Chip Norris, son of Mr. and Mrs. David Norris; teacher, Mrs. Grove. Second price, Le Ann Melby, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. George Melby; teacher, Miss Soles. Third price, Brian Hovden, teacher, Mrs. Pfister.

Second Grade: First prize, Eric Allan Reitan, son of Mr. and Mrs. Phillip J. Reitan, teacher, Mrs. Winger. Second prize, Cheryl Sersland, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Sersland; teacher, Mrs. Thompson. Third prize, Patty Larson; teacher, Mrs. Rowse.

Third Grade: Firs prize, Ricky Nelson, teacher, Mrs. Running. Second prize, Kathy Ellen Drew, daughter of Mrs. Betty Drew; teacher, Mrs. Cronin. Third price, Jay Dansdill, son of Mr. and Mrs. George Dansdill; teacher, Mrs. Running. 

Fourth grade: First prize, Russell Kimber, son of Mr. and Mrs. John Kimber, Jr.; teacher, Mrs. Peterson. Second prize, Robyn Sand, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Sand; teacher, Mrs. Fjelstul. Third prize, Daniel Houlihan, son of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Houlihan; teacher, Mrs. Peterson.

Fifth grade: First prize, Linda Hayes; teacher, Sr. Mary Alexia, R.S.M. Second prize, John Barund, son of Mr. and Mrs. Edward Barund; teacher, Sr. Mary Alexia, R.S.M, Third prize, Craig Hovda, son of Rev. and Mrs. Alden Hovda; teacher, Mrs. Running.

Sixth grade: First prize, Patrick C. Henely, son of Mr. and Mrs. Richard Henely; teacher, Sr. Mary Leonice. Second prize, Rick A. Hovda, son of Rev. and Mrs. Alden Hovda; teacher, Mrs. Kelly. Third prize, Le Ann Wagnsness, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Willis Wangsness; teacher Mrs. Kelly. 

Is your name on this list, or do you know someone listed here? 

Kai Robert: A Recent Link in a Wonderful Chain of Norwegian Artists at Nordic Fest

Kai Robert Johansen at the 2013 Nordic Fest

Since 1967, dozens of Norwegian and Scandinavian musical and dancing entertainers have made the long journey to Decorah and Nordic Fest. These entertainers have often been sponsored by both Nordic Fest and Vesterheim. 

Dozens more artists have demonstrated authentic Norwegian folk arts and skilled craftsmanship over 50 years of Nordic Fest experiences at Vesterheim. 

One such link in this beautiful chain of authentic Nordic Fest entertainment is the popular Kai Robert Johansen. Kai Robert has been to several recent Nordic Fest, impressing crowds with his beautiful trumpet playing and fun interactions with his audience. He gives his all on stage! Kai Robert is a renowned entertainer and composer who is based in Sarpsborg, Øsfold county, Norway. 

In his CD titled, "Nordic Fest 2013," Kai Robert wrote:

To Friends in the Midwest!

My repeated visits to several places in the Midwest has been a great motivation for me. I want to collect some of my musical favorites and address them to friends in the USA!

Thank you for so many good memories!
Kai Robert

To learn more about Kai Robert, visit http://www.kairobert.no/index.html. 

Thank you, Kai Robert and all our Norwegian  over 50 years for strengthening Nordic Fest with your cultural and artistic sharing and entertainment! 

The limited edition Nordic Fest 50th anniversary book is now available for pre-sale at 23% off its rate during Nordic Fest. Online pre-sales are available through Monday, July 4, 2016.  It includes 22 chapters, great photos, a spot to record your favorite Nordic Fest memories and a DVD with movie footage from the first event in 1967. Reserve your piece of Nordic Fest history today: http://www.nordicfest.com/site/nordic-fest-50-book.html 

About Town: One day at the Nordic Fest, guest post from Roz Weis

Roz Weis and her husband Greg, taken Christmas 2015. Roz wrote the following copyright article in a July 1986 issue of the Decorah Newspapers, used with permission. Roz's wonderful perspective is especially dedicated to anyone who has had to struggle through missing a Nordic Fest, or who may be struggling with the same feeling now. 

There's nothing else like it.

The feel of a Nordic Fest.

And I'm going to miss out on it this year. Well, I won't exactly miss the whole celebration. I'll be able to cram a full weekend of fun into a few hours on Friday afternoon.

This will be the first fest I've missed in eight years, and I've found something new to add to my own special list of memorable events each year. And by looking at the ever-expanding list of things to do this year, it looks like it will be no exception.

I''ll admit that carrying a camera around with you like a six-gun strapped to your side is bound to make you more aware of the sights and sounds of the three-day event.

There are those folk of all ages in their traditional Scandinavian dress. There's the performers and the visiting artists that add more and more to the festival each year. Then there are hundreds of volunteers making the varme polse, smørbrød sandwiches, and æbelskivers. Of course we can't forget the church workers, and the fest-goers themselves who make the celebration even more special.

I can't imagine what it will be like to come back to Decorah on Sunday and find I've missed some of the charming mix of recipes, crafts and entertainment that make the celebration so unique. 

Gosh, how does one combine three days of festing into a few short hours?

Of course I'll be taking pictures at opening ceremonies on Friday morning (always a crowd pleaser in m book) and I'll run back to the office and grab Dorothy for our annual food booth rounds.

Then I have to stop by my old stomping grounds and at the varme polser booth and sneak a peak at the National Rosemaling Exhibition at the Army Reserve Center. 

I'll want to catch a glimpse at the open air section at Vesterheim and run down to Thomas Roberts High School for the antique show and demonstrations. Oh, I want to get in on the quilt show at Good Shepherd Church and maybe take a quick troll walk.

Then I have to run down Water Street for my annual fest chat with Grant Woldum in his little booth at the intersection of Water and River streets. Grant's the Decorah artist who designs the annual Fest medals.

Wait a second, do I have time to run to the Methodist Church for the craft show? What about the folk music extravaganza at the Viking Theater? Will I make it to all the bake sales and church dinners?

How can I miss the parade, the rock throw, my annual trip to the information booth for a visit with volunteer Barb Hunt? She's the red head sporting a new Scandinavian apron this year. 

Why, I even gave up my 10-year class reunion for last year's Nordic Fest. But I guess my friend Liz's wedding takes priority this year. Colorado, here I come!

See you next week...About Town! 

The limited edition Nordic Fest 50th anniversary book is now available for pre-sale at 23% off its rate during Nordic Fest. Online pre-sales are available through Monday, July 4, 2016.  It includes 22 chapters, great photos, a spot to record your favorite Nordic Fest memories and a DVD with movie footage from the first event in 1967. Reserve your piece of Nordic Fest history today: http://www.nordicfest.com/site/nordic-fest-50-book.html 

Two Weeks Left to Buy the Nordic Fest 50th Anniversary Book at 23% off!

Nordic Fest 50^th anniversary book presales: 2 more weeks to go

The Nordic Fest 50^th anniversary book entitled, “Nordic Fest: 50 Years Strong,” will be available for sale for two more weeks at its best price of $50 per book. Book sales are slated to increase to $65 during Nordic Fest, making presales a 23% savings. Presale orders may be placed two ways:

1.       In person at the Decorah Area Chamber of Commerce during regular business hours via cash or check. Last day to place a presale order at the Chamber will be Friday, July 1.
2.       Online via credit card at www.nordicfest.com. Online presales will be available through Monday, July 4.

For both online and Chamber sales, there is an additional cost if you need Nordic Fest to ship a book for you.

Each full color, 304-page book purchase includes:

•          A space at the back to record your personal favorite Nordic Fest memories
•         A DVD featuring archival footage from the first Nordic Fest in 1967 given by the LaVerne and Barbara Hanssen family, as well as a digitized version a 1991 Nordic Fest promotional video.

Book proceeds after printing costs are covered benefit the permanent placement and proper organization of the Nordic Fest archives at the Vesterheim Norwegian American Museum.

Details of book sales during Nordic Fest will be announced at a later time. Those who place a pre-order will have pickup details confirmed for them when printing is finished.

“Each investment in a Nordic Fest 50^th anniversary book helps move this history project forward. Thanks to so many Nordic Fest volunteers and fans who are making this possible. We’d be honored by your presale purchase,” said Dawn Svenson Holland project co-chair.

For more information, contact nordic fest 50 at gmail dot com. 

Thanks to Scandinavia Institute in American Studies

As the soon to be released Nordic Fest 50th anniversary book explains in detail, many organizations and aspects of life in Decorah prior to 1967 strengthened the event's chances for success. One such example of this is the Thanks to Scandinavia Institute (TTS) in American Studies hosted for many years at Luther College.

This cultural immersion program created lasting connections between Scandinavian educators and program directors at Luther and often included travel in the Midwest and time at Nordic Fest. Director Uwe Rudolf shared a few moments from the TTS

:

Larry Reis, county naturalist explains various plants on the Hayden Prairie to some of the Scandinavian Institute participants

Scandinavian Institute participants preparing to ride bikes provided courtesy of Dean Carolan, who voluntarily refurbished used bicycles abandoned by students

Scandinavian Institue participants are invited for dinner in local homes.  Pictured: Karen Lovland (Norway) Agneta Blomberg (Sweden) with hosts emeriti professors Uwe Rudolf and Ruth Caldwell and Professor Laurie Iudin-Nelson

Scandinavian participants frequently return just to attend for Nordic Fest and revisit Decorah.  Pictured:Kjellaug Bartz-Johanessen with Luther College student worker in dining services, William Liu.

Scandinavian Institute Participants also visit historic sites in Iowa.  Pictured: A group visit to the childhood home of President Hoover.

The limited edition Nordic Fest 50th anniversary book is now available for pre-sale at 23% off its rate during Nordic Fest. Online pre-sales are available through Monday, July 4, 2016.  It includes 22 chapters, great photos, a spot to record your favorite Nordic Fest memories and a DVD with movie footage from the first event in 1967. Reserve your piece of Nordic Fest history today: http://www.nordicfest.com/site/nordic-fest-50-book.html 

Nordic Fest Bus Tours: Preservation Point for Decorah History

Nordic Fest organizers recognized the event as an opportunity to promote return trips to Decorah. Bus tours of Decorah were an important part of that promotion, and Hawkeye Stages of Decorah has been a major sponsor of these tours during Nordic Fest since the beginning. Photo courtesy www.hawkeyestages.com

1977 marked the 11th year of bus tours of scenic and historic Decorah at Nordic Fest. Along with his fellow volunteer guides Jack Anundsen, Gene Johnson, Dean Thurmer, Ken Bjerke and Gene Wicks, Hubert Leseth loved sharing his passion for Decorah as a volunteer tour guide. The following notes from his 1977 bus tour script, provided by his family, preserve interesting aspects of Decorah's history: 

• The current Decorah City Hall stands on land formed by filling in an old bend of the Upper Iowa River
• The Old Stone Mill currently part of Vesterheim began operating as a grist mill in 1851, when power was obtained by running water through a mill race from a dam upstream through a a wheel under the mill. The mill operated until 1966.
• The first power generating station was build in Decorah just four months after Edison began operating his first plant in New York City. The first plant provided power for 20 lights in Decorah and and was located near the present Winneshiek County Courthouse.
• Luther College was moved to Decorah from La Crosse, Wisconsin in 1862. The under-construction Faith and Life Center will be a 3.8 million dollar building that serves as a chapel and auditorium for the performing arts. 
• Tuition at Luther College was free until 1921, when the charge became $60 per year. 
• First Lutheran Church was built in 1876 of brick made on the Luther College campus. 

Thank you Hubert Leseth, and all the Chamber and tourism volunteers who have been building awareness of Decorah through tours for 50 years!  

The limited edition Nordic Fest 50th anniversary book is now available for pre-sale at 23% off its rate during Nordic Fest. Online pre-sales are available through Monday, July 4, 2016.  It includes 22 chapters, great photos, a spot to record your favorite Nordic Fest memories and a DVD with movie footage from the first event in 1967. Reserve your piece of Nordic Fest history today: http://www.nordicfest.com/site/nordic-fest-50-book.html 

Nordic Fest 50th anniversary book presales: 1 more month to go

Nordic Fest 50^th anniversary book presales: 1 more month to go

The Nordic Fest 50^th anniversary book entitled, “Nordic Fest: 50 Years Strong,” will be available for sale for one more month at its best price of $50 per book. Book sales are slated to increase to $65 during Nordic Fest, making presales a 23% savings. Presale orders may be placed two ways:

1.       In person at the Decorah Area Chamber of Commerce during regular business hours via cash or check. Last day to place a presale order at the Chamber will be Friday, July 1.
2.       Online via credit card at www.nordicfest.com. There is an additional cost if you need Nordic Fest to ship your book to you. Online presales will be available through Monday, July 4.

Each book purchase includes:

• A space at the back to record your personal favorite Nordic Fest memories
•  A DVD featuring archival footage from the first Nordic Fest in 1967 given by the LaVerne and Barbara Hanssen family, as well as a digitized version a 1991 Nordic Fest promotional video.

Book proceeds after printing costs are covered benefit the permanent placement and proper organization of the Nordic Fest archives at the Vesterheim Norwegian American Museum.

“Mange takk to everyone who has already placed a pre-order for your Nordic Fest 50^th anniversary book. If you haven’t ordered yours, you have until our next summer 2016 holiday weekend to order your book at its best available rate,” said Dawn Svenson-Holland, project co-chair.

Details of book sales during Nordic Fest will be announced at a later time. Those who place a pre-order will have pickup details confirmed for them when production is finished.

For more information, contact nordic fest 50 at gmail dot com. 

The Norwegian Cultural History of the Hardanger Fiddle: Guest Post from Eden Ehm

Decorah native Eden Ehm shares her Hardanger fiddle talent at a recent Nordic Fest

Editor's Note: Eden Ehm, a Nordic Dancers Orchestra alum and graduate of the Hardanger fiddle program at St. Olaf College, was kind enough to share her expertise on the history of this beautiful piece of Nordic Fest music in today's guest post. More on Eden below. Thank you, Eden, for enhancing the Nordic Fest 50 blog! 

Norway has a rich and strong tradition of unique music, dance, and art that are all embodied in the Hardanger fiddle.  The instrument's significance and transition through time are why the Hardanger Fiddle is considered representative of Norway's folk culture and is considered to be the folk instrument of Norway.  The artistry and craftsmanship of the fiddle maker, fiddler, dancers, and events where the hardingfele is played create the tradition that is the hardanger fiddle tradition. 

Norway's musical tradition originated with folk tunes.  Since the first fiddle was created in the 1600's, these tunes have been passed from teacher to student and between fiddlers, always learning the tunes directly from others and by ear.  This tradition of learning and created an aural chain that remains unbroken today with fiddlers in Norway and America learning the same favorite, old tunes and sharing new music.  This rich tradition links generations and continents together, creating a musical lineage among fiddlers and a rich culture surrounding the instrument.  Today, hardingfele repertoire has expanded to include new folk tunes, tone poems, and even concertos like the Tveitt Concertos.    

Hardanger fiddle is also important in Norwegian culture because of the events that the instrument is played for.  Fiddlers, fiddles, and the tunes they play were an important part of weddings, dance parties, and other important events.  While the fiddle was usually played solo, it gathered communities together at these events.  These traditions are kept alive today in both Norway and in America, while also allowing new traditions emerge, such as playing the hardingfele with others as part of a "lag" group or with other folk instruments.  Through time, the hardingfele has continued to create a tight-knit community around its playing, dancing, or simply enjoying the music and skills it takes to play the instrument.  

The fiddles themselves are examples of Norwegian folk art.  The rosemaling-esque inking, shell and bone inlay, carved scroll head and pegs, and overall fiddle design are unique to each maker.  Each fiddle has its own design, giving it its own personality and sound.  Whether it is an older fiddle or one made by a modern maker, they are treasured instruments to the fiddler and overall Norwegian culture.  Hardanger fiddles are pieces of art, but that artistry is elevated when they become a working piece of art when played.  

In America, especially a Norwegian-American community like Decorah, it is important to remember that hardanger fiddles came with immigrants to become a part of the Norwegian culture in the US in the 1800s and 1900s.  Learning, playing, and dancing to tunes continued in the new world, and competitions, famous fiddlers like Ole Bull or Fykerud, and fiddle groups and spellemannslags became popular during that time.  The making of new fiddles also continued by some makers in the US, namely the Helland Brothers of Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin.  As is common with immigrant groups, with future generations the old traditions and interests died out.  However, in recent decades there has been a resurgence in interest in folk music and dancing and the hardingfele has undergone a revival in the United States.  

More on Eden: A native of Decorah, Iowa, Eden Ehm grew up seeing beautiful Hardanger fiddles in Vesterheim Museum displays but never dreamed she would play one.  Her interest in folk music and fiddling began during her seven years as principal violinist of the Decorah Nordic Dancer's Orchestra.  Eden began studying the Hardanger fiddle in the prestigious Hardanger fiddle program at St. Olaf College - the only school in the United States to offer instruction and credit in this unique instrument.  During her time at St. Olaf, Eden had the opportunity to travel regionally and perform; fiddling for King Harold and Queen Sonja of Norway in during their visit to the Untied States in 2011 was a highlight.  

A member of the Hardanger Fiddle Association of America (HFAA), Eden enjoys attending workshops, camps, and learning new tunes from other fiddlers.  She is most often seen performing at Scandinavian festivals such as Decorah's Nordic Fest, where she performed in 2012, 2013, and 2014.  She hopes to one day travel to Norway to study Hardanger fiddle. 

In addition to Hardanger fiddle, Eden has played violin since the age of five.  She is the concertmaster of the Oneota Valley Community Orchestra and a member of the LaCrose Symphony Orchestra.