Norsk Høstfest
MINOT, ND
Norsk Høstfest, North America’s largest Scandinavian festival, was an annual celebration of the rich cultural heritage of the Nordic countries, including Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden.
The festival featured a variety of traditional activities, including authentic Nordic food, music and dance performances, artisan crafts, and hands-on cultural experiences held at the North Dakota State Fair Grounds in Minot, North Dakota.
Norsk Høstfest Announces End of Annual Festival
Rising costs and declining attendance lead to the difficult decision to end the historic Scandinavian tradition after 2025. The Board of Directors of Norsk Høstfest Association today announced that the annual Norsk Høstfest festival, long recognized as North America’s largest Scandinavian festival, will no longer continue after the conclusion of the 2025 event.
For more than four decades, Norsk Høstfest brought together millions of attendees to celebrate Nordic culture through community, music, art, food, and education. The festival was founded in 1978 by the late Chester Reiten and a group of friends who shared his interest in celebrating their Nordic heritage. The decision to end the festival was not made lightly. After careful evaluation, the Board determined that rising operational costs combined with declining attendance have made it financially unsustainable to continue the event at the scale and quality expected by patrons, artists, and partners.
“In recent years, the festival has faced significant increases in the cost of nationally recognized performers, as well as insurance, facilities, labor, and logistics,” said festival leadership. “At the same time, attendance levels have not rebounded to pre-pandemic levels, creating ongoing financial challenges that cannot be responsibly overcome.”
While the festival, as we know it, is ending, its spirit lives on in Minot through the Scandinavian Heritage Association (SHA). As the creator and steward of the Scandinavian Heritage Park, the SHA remains committed to this legacy throughongoing education and community engagement. We invite the community to help shape this future by volunteering, joining a society, or contributing their time and talents; to learn more or get involved, please visit scandinavianheritage.org.
Norsk Høstfest has been made possible through generations of volunteers, staff, performers, donors, vendors, sponsors, and supporters whose passion and dedication built the festival into a beloved international tradition. The organization extends its deepest gratitude to the community of Minot and to the people of North Dakota, as well as to supporters across the United States, Canada, and the Nordic region. We also offer special appreciation to Minot’s sister city, Skien, Norway; to the many dignitaries who have joined us over the years; and to the Royal Family of Norway, whom we were honored to host. Together, these individuals and communities were instrumental in making Norsk Høstfest a cherished and enduring success.
Notice: Beyond this formal announcement, the Board of Directors and Staff will not be conducting interviews or providing further comment at this time. All relevant information regarding the conclusion of the festival is contained within this release.
The Norsk Høstfest Association is a private, nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization.
Scandi-Themed Activities
Adventure like no other was found at the Norsk Høstfest! From the rush of competition at the Lutefisk Eating Contests, the elegant tradition of the Bunad Parade, and the art of Nordic cuisine at the cooking demos on the Nordic Kitchen stage. The spirit of Scandinavia was present with every step, inviting guests to be part of these traditional activities.
Lutefisk Eating Competition
A highlight of Norsk Høstfest was the Lutefisk Eating Competition, held in Oslo Hall! Contestants from all corners gathered to indulge in this traditional Norwegian dish, known for its unique preparation involving lye-soaked fish. Contestants pushed their taste buds to the limit as they vied for the coveted title of Lutefisk Champion. It’s a spectacle of gastronomic bravery, cultural celebration, and was a must-see event for those who craved a taste of Norway’s culinary traditions. The competition took place daily during the festival in Oslo Hall.
Bunad Show & Parade
Høstfest guests were invited to model their Bunad (traditional folk costume). Folk costumes from all Nordic countries were welcome. Men, women, and children of all ages displayed the vivid tapestry of garments, each unique to their Nordic region.
Nordic Kitchen
The Nordic Kitchen cooking demonstrations at Norsk Høstfest offered visitors a chance to experience Scandinavian cuisine in a unique and exciting way. The demonstrations featured professional chefs who are experts in preparing traditional Scandinavian dishes, from smoked salmon to meatballs and everything in between. The chefs shared their knowledge and techniques with the audience, offering tips on how to cook and serve the dishes at home. The demonstrations were not just informative but also entertaining, as the chefs were known to engage the audience with their humor and personality.
Mystery Viking
Each day of the festival, one Mystery Viking roamed the festival with $100 cash to give out to the first person who located them!
How did you locate this mysterious seafarer, you ask? It’s simple – you greeted people throughout the festival grounds with a “Hi, how are you?”
Viking Battles
Thrilling Viking demonstrations transported guests back to an age of bravery and craftsmanship, fueling the heart of the Viking spirit. Whether you were a history buff or simply looking for an unforgettable experience, the live Viking demonstrations promised excitement and education for all ages.
Live Action Viking Battles at the Viking Village
Populated by the Viking Age Club and Society of the Sons of Norway and more, this living history reenactment group was dedicated to showcasing life during the Iron Age of Scandinavia through traditional crafts and live steel combat demonstrations. Patrons learned how the Vikings worked, fought, and played in this fun and educational experience.
Family Fun at The Familie Fjord
The Familie Fjord offered a fun mix of entertainment and education: an exciting scavenger hunt, exploring the festival, and uncovering hidden surprises. Oskar the Troll, the festival’s mascot, spread joy throughout the event. Norsk Høstfest was the perfect place for families to enjoy a day of fun and discovery!
Honoring 200 Years of Norwegian Roots in America
It has been 200 years since the first organized emigration from Norway to North America. Known as the sloopers, this group of pioneers set sail in 1825 and laid the foundation for generations of Norwegian-American heritage.
We’re proud to honor this journey through shared stories, cultural traditions, and a celebration of the ties that continue to connect us across the ocean.