North Dakota’s culture is heavily influenced by Scandinavian countries, so it’s no surprise to hear there is fun Scandinavian festivals here. Every year on the first Sunday of October one of the state’s lovely small towns puts on an Uffda Day. Whether you are of Norwegian, Swedish, or Danish descent or not, you can find plenty to enjoy here. It’s an all day extravaganza of Scandinavia that you don’t want to miss!
The small town of Rutland, North Dakota (of “world’s largest flipped hamburger” fame) has a population of only about 160, but they all come together to celebrate their annual Uffda Day on the first Sunday of October.
Andrew Filer/Flickr
For over 30 years they have been celebrating everything Scandinavia, from Swedish gnomes…
Rutland, ND/Facebook
…to Norwegian fjord horses! The festival is jam packed all day with things, including a parade.
Rutland, ND/Facebook
There is a little something for everyone here. An all day car show will be going on while kids can have fun in the free bounce castles. If you think you’re skilled enough you can take part in the Norse-ski competition, the pedal pull challenge, or the nickel scramble.
Rutland, ND/Facebook
Crafts and vendor booths will be set up all around town for you to browse and buy handmade goods and Scandinavian things.
Rutland, ND/Facebook
Of course, what is a good festival without food? Uffda Day has plenty! Everything from Uffda Day tacos to a meal of scalloped potatoes and ham will be served in various places around town throughout the day.
Rutland, ND/Facebook
And if you love Scandinavian treats and delicacies, you must go to this event. Fresh lefse is made all day and delicious things like krukake and sandbakkels are available to purchase. You’ll definitely won’t want to go home without some!
Rutland, ND/Facebook
Of course, tons of pumpkins and gourds are out and ready to buy for you to enjoy for the remainder of fall. It’s a super fun fall festival that celebrates a big chunk of North Dakota’s ancestry, but anyone would have a blast at it. It’s not to be missed!
Rutland, ND/Facebook
For a full schedule and more information about Uffda Day, click here. It will be taking place all around Rutland throughout October 7th, 2018.
Andrew Filer/Flickr
Rutland, ND/Facebook
If you want more Scandinavian fun in North Dakota that you can visit for free year round, then you have to check out the beautiful and unique Scandinavian Heritage Park.
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