"Skal:Scandinavian Spirits" exhibition opens at Vesterheim Museum

An exhibit called "Skal," which celebrates the history of alcoholic beverages in Scandinavian cultural celebrations, is now open at the Vesterheim Norwegian-American museum. The exhibition will be on view from now until New Year's Eve.

Curated by the Museum of Danish America, the traveling exhibition shares the history and traditions of drinking culture in Sweden, Norway and Denmark and how those traditions continued here in the U.S. through immigrants. This exhibit specifically focuses on the importance of beer and aquavit, the traditional flavored spirit of Scandinavia, which means "water of life."

There will be an opening reception on September 10th. The event will feature a public aquavit tasting with Claus Toftjkaer, from the Norwegian aquavit company Arcus, and gallery talks. Attendees must be 21 to participate.

Drinking traditions are a good way for Scandinavian Americans to connect to their heritage. Scandinavians have been brewing beer for more than 1,500 years and it is rumored that the Norse god Odin taught humans how to make aquavit before the arrival of Christian missionaries.

Vesterheim's presentation of this exhibit is sponsored by Dennis Johnson, the Edward Jones Investment Offices of Dick Cuvulier and Troy Whitehill, A&J Petersburg Agency and Dennis Larson.