Celebrate the 51st Nordic Fest - Nordi Gras style!

The Nordic Fest board is busy preparing and making plans for the 51st Nordic Fest, "Nordi Gras," July 27th, 28th and 29th.  With the possibility of RAGBRAI riders and support staff traveling through Decorah on Friday morning of the Fest, they are also gearing up for the possibility of extra attendees.

Nordic Fest board member Ann Kephart says the board is working with Decorah Area Chamber of Commerce director Kristina Wiltgen to encourage RAGBRAI participants to come through Decorah. In order to accommodate the riders, the board is first looking into plans to offer a safe storage spot for all of the bikes. The board will also be working with food vendors to ensure they are prepared for extra appetites on Friday. 

Food vendors will be verified over the next month. Organizations with booths should be receiving contracts soon. Organizations, including churches, should contact the Nordic Fest board if they do not plan to participate in the 2017 Fest.

The board is investigating some additional food options this year in order to provide new opportunities, accommodate for the anticipated large numbers, and promote Decorah's downtown establishments. If a group or a business would be interested in hosting an Aquavit tasting, Smorbrod (open face sandwiches) or Aebleskiver (Danish pancake balls) please contact a Nordic Fest board member or go to www.nordicfest.com.

Each year, Nordic Fest board members and other volunteers spend countless hours working behind the scenes to make sure the Fest runs smoothly. This year, the board hopes to compile and utilize a volunteer database which would allow volunteers to sign up to help with specific tasks at specific times before, during, and after the Fest. If you would like to add your name to that database, please contact a Nordic Fest board member.

The entertainment schedule is being developed with a renewed emphasis on high-quality local performers in an effort to cut back on big expenses. In addition to stage performances, the board is considering reviving some Fest entertainment from the past such as the firemen's barrel contest and other old favorites. If you know of a group or individual interested in being considered for Nordic Fest entertainment please contact the Nordic Fest board.

The Nordic Fest board is excited about the 51st Fest and welcomes suggestions, contributions and input. Membership mailings will follow shortly, or you can contribute by visiting www.nordicfest.com