Concordia Language Villages
Nordic Lights Film Festival
St. Olaf Christmas Festival
Finn Hall Band 
Sara Pajunen and Jonathan Rundman of Kaivama
BEST OF THE FESTS
This festival introduces Nordic film and filmmakers to local audiences.
When: Feb. 8–14
Where: St. Anthony Main Theatre
Features some of Scandinavia’s most talented folk musicians. Bring your dancing shoes and the kids—this is a family-friendly event.
When: June 7–8
Where: Nisswa
The rich tradition of choral singing still thrives at the Scandinavian-American colleges, and this century-old festival is the granddaddy of ’em all. Go early to enjoy the Scandinavian buffet.
When: Nov. 29–Dec. 2, 2012
Where: Northfield
TOASTS AND TUNES
Nordic Happy Hour
Raise a glass with the young and young-at-heart as they gather for monthly conversation and camaraderie. The location occasionally changes, so look for the latest information on the group’s 200-member Facebook page.
This Pan-Nordic acoustic session welcomes new players and listeners Monday nights at the Contented Cow pub in downtown Northfield.
This band, which re-creates the sounds of 20th-century Finnish dance halls, frequently serves up its authentic tunes at Kramarczuk’s Deli and Sausage Co. in Northeast Minneapolis.
Historically known as Scandinavian “Snoose Boulevard,” Cedar Avenue is still a favorite stop for touring Nordic musicians.
Finnish-American musicians Sara Pajunen and Jonathan Rundman are transforming ancestral melodies into music for new audiences. Take in a local performance or download their newest CD with Finnish fiddling superstar Arto Järvelä.
Colleges and universities
Many local schools have strong Scandinavian ties, and they offer a steady stream of visiting authors, musicians, and other notables. Watch the calendars of Augsburg, Gustavus, St. Olaf, and the University of Minnesota in the metro area, or go farther afield to Concordia (Moorhead) or Luther.
LANGUAGE AND CULTURE
Connect to Nordic culture—or just decipher all those IKEA product names—by learning a new language and soaking up Scandi culture right here.
Offers summer youth immersion programs in Norwegian, Swedish, Finnish, and Danish, as well as preschool, family, and adult programs.
The Turnblad Mansion and newly opened Nelson Cultural Center are the local center of all things Swedish.
The regional hot spot for Danes.
Check the calendar for collaborative events with the Icelandic Hekla Club, as well as the local Norwegians and Danes.
This south Minneapolis church offers a weekly worship service in Norwegian, as well as language and cultural classes.
A clearinghouse for all things Finnish.
Founded and headquartered in Minneapolis, the organization’s calendar and blog highlight local Nordic-American events
Stay on top of the thriving folk scene.
From pastries, cheeses, and meats to toys, clothes, and gifts, get our editors' list of must-try Nordic shops and restaurants across the Twin Cities. GO »