Junction City Scandinavian Festival

Celebrating the legacy of their cultural heritage of Denmark, Sweden, Finland and Norway, the residents of Junction City produce an amazing four day festival every August. Three stages of entertainment are filled with choral and instrumental groups, folk dancers and informational presentations.

The Scandinavian Festival commences with a processional parade to the Festival Park Stage. Scandinavian and Nordic culture, dancing and musical entertainment reigns throughout the festival. The smorgasbord of food is also a festival highlight with traditional favorites from Swedish meat pies to Ebelskivers (Danish pancakes). Of course, you can find all the common street fair choices like shave ice and corn on the cob, but while at the Scandinavian Festival, do what the Vikings do and eat Scandinavian. Speaking of Vikings, you’ll see them moving through the crowds, and if you are lucky, you may even spot a troll or two.

All the vendors at the Scandinavian Festival dress in traditional garb, so attending is an immersive experience. There are demonstrations of blacksmithing, spinning, knitting, tatting lace and Hardanger embroidery. Enjoy Scandinavian storytelling, glean Scandinavian cooking tips or pick up some Nordic dance steps.

And don’t forget the shopping! Pick up t-shirts that say “I heart Finland!” or flags from your favorite Scandinavian country. Vendors display handmade clothing, soaps, jewelry, glass, woodcrafts, paintings and pottery. Find unusual handicrafts of Scandinavian culture such as Hardanger Embroidery, bobbin lace and Rosemaling.