Our Scandinavian Heritage
As you may know, Minnesota and the upper midwest is
an area densely populated by immigrants from the Scandinavian
countries. Swedes, Norwegians, Finns, Danes and also a worthy
contingent of Icelanders settled this territory in great masses
during the late 1800's to the early 1900's.
Part of that rich cultural legacy still here and very
much alive is their own brand of folkmusic/folkdance and their
own unique style of celebrating it. Their style is not brash,
and certainly not flashy or showy. Rather, the Scandinavian/American
style is rooted in a quiet self confidence that puts a high value
on working for the good of their own community.
In other words, we may not make a lot of noise, but
we know how to play together and have a good time doing it ---
despite what you may have heard to the contrary on certain nationally
syndicated public radio shows, and Oscar winning movies! Come
and hear the sounds, do the dances, see the costumes, smell the
flowers and gather the real story for yourself.
A Special note to those of
you who love to Dance -- This Stämma
is very dancer-friendly. There is a special outdoor dance floor
next to the main stage so you can literally dance all day!!!
In addition, there is an all day long dance barn featuring a
mix of dance instruction and open dancing. Finally, there are old-time dances Friday and Saturday night at the American
Legion Club in Nisswa. See the event schedule
for more details.
For more information regarding our Scandinavian Heritage,
be sure to visit our site index for
additional links.
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