Experience Nordic traditions at Scandinavian Day
Nordic history and culture will be in the spotlight this weekend in South Elgin at the 31st annual Scandinavian Day Festival.
The festival runs from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday at Vasa Park, 35W217 Route 31 in South Elgin, and will spotlight the culture, traditions and heritage of Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden.
Visitors don't have be from these countries to enjoy the day and soak in the atmosphere, organizers say.
"Everyone's welcome. It's a great festival for the family. People can learn about Scandinavian culture and eat some different food," said Linda Steffensen, a board member with Scandinavian Park Inc., a nonprofit group that organizes the festival.
"It grows every year. We have a lot of different Scandinavian food and vendors and entertainment."
The day will begin with a church service from 10 to 10:45 a.m., followed by an opening ceremony at 11:15 a.m.
Other performers include the Leikarringen "Heimhug" Norwegian Folk Dancers of Chicago at 11:45 a.m., the Sun City Concert Band of Huntley at 12:30 p.m., Ole and Sven of Madison, Wisconsin with humorous music at 2 p.m. and the Normennes Singing Society at 2:30 p.m.
One highlight that will occur the entire day along the Fox River band is expected to be Telge Glima, a Swedish cultural society that performs and instructs the public in old Scandinavian games and sports that is celebrating its 20th anniversary.
Mary Jean Nystedt, another committee member, will open her Wheaton home to about 15 members of Telge Glima.
"They aren't just re-enactors. They have (full-time) professions," she said.
"They come from Sweden and come from Viking blood and they come from Nordic tradition. Even though they are entertainers, they have a true heritage they are upholding and bringing honor to."
Admission to Scandinavian Day is $10 for adults and free for kids 12 and younger, along with people in full traditional Scandinavian dress or costume. The event will be held rain or shine. Pets are not permitted at the park.
For more information, call (847) 695-6720 or visit scandinaviandayil.com.
"This festival is so important to the Scandinavian community. We draw not only from Illinois but Iowa and Wisconsin," Nystedt said. "This festival is a great way to show our heritage."
<p class="factboxheadblack">If you go</p>
<p class="News"><b>What:</b> The 31st annual Scandinanvian Day Festival, featuring food, games, music and re-enactors to spotlight the history and culture of five countries.</p>
<p class="News"><b>When:</b> 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 12</p>
<p class="News"><b>Where:</b> Vasa Park, 35W217 Route 31, South Elgin</p>
<p class="News"><b>Cost:</b> $10 admission for adults, free for kids 12 and younger and people dressed in Scandinavian costumes.</p>
<p class="News"><b>Details:</b> Call (847) 695-6720 or visit <a href="http://scandinaviandayil.com" target="new">scandinaviandayil.com</a></p>