Norsk Høstfest offers a delightful array of activities for families and kids to enjoy.
The Family Fun Zone is brimming with entertainment that combines fun and education, featuring engaging performers and entertainers who captivate young audiences. For those with a sense of adventure, there’s an exciting scavenger hunt where kids explore the festival grounds, uncovering hidden secrets and elements along the way. The Kids Passport adds an extra layer of excitement, encouraging children to collect stamps as they embark on a journey of discovery. Once the passport is filled, it becomes a ticket to a special prize. Adding to the festivities is Oskar the Troll, the charming mascot of Norsk Høstfest, bringing joy and laughter to the entire family. The festival promises an unforgettable experience for young festival-goers, making Norsk Hostfest a perfect destination for family fun.
Previous Entertainers in the Kids Fun Zone
Ross Sutter & Gretchen Jones
Ross Sutter and Gretchen Jones have worked together at Norsk Høstfest for many years taking part in the Høstfest in the Schools program and also the Scandinavian Youth Camp. Come and join Ross and Gretchen to learn some fun Swedish songs and games. Maybe we can even get mom and dad, grandpa and grandma up to do a dance with us?
Rose Arrowsmith
Actress, author, and storyteller, Rose Arrowsmith has been telling deliciously imaginative folktales, often from Sweden and Norway, since 2001. Rose is the author of children’s books There Are No Sharks in Lake Superior and The Sock Goblin, and middle-grade novel The Marvelous Imagination of Katie Addams. Rose has performed around the U.S. as well as in India and Sweden. She lives in Grand Marais, Minnesota.
KvinneKraft
Kvinne Kraft lead spontaneous longdance, give rune readings, and talk about the ancient instruments of cow horn and bone flute.
Joan Paddock
Joan Haaland Paddock is Professor of Music at Linfield University in McMinnville, Oregon. The first woman awarded an Indiana University trumpet performance doctorate, Paddock is Fulbright Scholar to Norway, Emmy Award Winner from National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences, and HealthRHYTHMS™ Facilitator. A Bach Clinician, she is guest soloist, conductor, clinician, and adjudicator throughout the Americas, Northern and Southern Europe, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East. A trumpeter with Salem Symphonic Winds, Oregon Symphonic Band, Yamhill River Brass, Britt Festival Orchestra, and “on call” with the Oregon Symphony and Portland Opera, Dr. Paddock also leads drumming for team-building and wellness. Uniquely, Joan sounds the Lur (Nordic Wooden Trumpet) for Scandinavian Cultural Festivals in the US and abroad and has performed at Minot’s Norsk Høstfest for over 30 years!
Ross Sutter & ARt Bjorngjeld
Ross Sutter and Art Bjorngjeld tour all over the Midwest and have both toured in Scandinavia. Together they play Norwegian and Swedish tunes and songs and will get the whole family singing along. Highlights of the show will be a chance to try the button accordion and take part in the retelling of the Three Billy Goats Gruff story wearing a billy goat mask you make and decorate yourself.
Are you ready for an exciting adventure across the enchanting lands of Norsk Høstfest? Get your passports ready, your sense of curiosity in full gear, and let’s embark on a thrilling journey filled with discovery and surprises!
Your mission is to explore the festival grounds and find each stop along the way. Meet the characters, learn about Scandinavia, and collect stamps from the friendly locals to fill your booklet. Once you have gather all the stamps, turn it in for an exciting reward at the end of the journey. Take a peek at the previous year’s Kid’s Passport to see what is in store for the next festival!
Oskar the Troll, the lovable mascot of Norsk Høstfest, is a whimsical character who embodies the spirit of joy and camaraderie at the festival. Hailing from the enchanting world of Norwegian folklore, Oskar is a friendly and mischievous troll with a heart as big as his infectious grin. With his vibrant attire and a twinkle in his eye, Oskar roams the festival grounds, spreading laughter and cheer to attendees of all ages. Known for his playful antics and warm personality, Oskar is always ready for a dance, a photo, or a hug with festival-goers. His presence adds a magical touch to Norsk Høstfest, creating cherished memories for families and ensuring that the spirit of fun is alive and well throughout the festivities. Oskar the Troll is not just a mascot; he’s a beloved symbol of the joyful celebration that defines Norsk Høstfest.
