Celebrate heritage, community, and tradition on June 21 in the charming town of Peterson, Minn., during its beloved Gammel Dag festival, Norwegian for “the good old days.” Held on the longest day of the year, this vibrant celebration offers a unique opportunity to experience Peterson’s rich Scandinavian roots in a fun and festive atmosphere.
Secretary Gail Barnard-Boyum, Friends of Peterson, shared, “ The first Gammel Dag celebration was held in 1961, and the theme was ‘The Good Old Days.’”
The celebration of Norwegian heritage will be in full swing, beginning with people donning Norwegian clothing. The festivities officially kick off with a parade at 10 a.m., led by the town’s beloved mascot, Gunnar, as it proceeds down Main Street.
Enjoy a wide array of events and attractions throughout the day and into the evening, including a street dance at the Peterson Legion, interactive demonstrations, and traditional Norwegian food such as lefse and rommegrot. Visitors can also enjoy a dunk tank, kids activities, kiddie train rides, scavenger hunts, minnow races, and flower crown making, all under the beautiful Midwestern sky.
Music, tractor exhibits, and a newly opened museum wing dedicated to Peterson School District 232 will also be featured. Demonstrators will showcase 16th century wood turning, rosemaling, and wool spinning.
A highlight of the day will be the appearance of the Nordic Dancers from Decorah. They will participate in the parade and later perform traditional folk dances at the bandstand, where audience participation is encouraged.
At Grace Church, ladies will serve hot turkey sandwiches, while the Legion Auxiliary will be selling sloppy joes. The El Barco Mexican Food Truck will be stationed across the street from the Peterson Legion throughout the evening.
While visiting Peterson, be sure to enjoy the area’s natural beauty. Take a walk or bike ride along the 60 miles of paved trails on the renowned Root River State Trail, or the scenic Root River by canoe or kayak. Fishing is a popular activity.
Upcoming Events in Bluff Country
• Music in the Park, June 24, Caledonia, Minn.
• Mighty Howard County Fair, June 25-29, Cresco, Iowa.
• Brownsville Days, June 27-29, Brownsville, Minn.
• Laura Ingalls Wilder Day, June 28, Burr Oak, Iowa.
• Music in the Bluffs, June 28, Whalan, Minn.
The Visit Bluff Country Magazine is delivered to more than 1,000 locations in 35 counties in Iowa, Illinois, Minnesota, and Wisconsin. This magazine has a mission of promoting tourism in the Historic Bluff Country (Driftless) region.
For information on upcoming town festivals and events in Historic Bluff Country, vacation ideas for lodging, recreation, dining, and shopping, check out the magazine in print or online at www.visitbluffcountry.com.
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