For immediate release: May 10, 2024
Press Contact: Gail Boyum 507-429-2464 / gbb@fopmm.org
Get Ready for Gammel Dag 2024!
Peterson, MN - Join us for a delightful celebration of tradition, community, and fun at Gammel Dag on June 22, 2024! This year’s event promises to be the best yet, with exciting new additions and beloved old favorites. Here's what you can look forward to:
Lively Parade and Fun Activities
Kick off the day with a hometown parade, featuring floats, Nordic Dancers, and local organizations that celebrate our vibrant community. Afterward, meet at the bandstand to watch or join in the folk dances demonstrated by Decorah’s Nordic Dancers. Then, enjoy a range of family-friendly activities that bring everyone together:
- Dunk Tank: Test your skills and try to dunk your friends or family.
- Games: Take part in quirky, entertaining games like minnow races.
- Unique Crafts: Create something special while painting wooden gnomes or making flower crowns.
- 20+ Nordic Folk Artists: Visit and talk with over 20 talented Nordic artists as they demonstrate their folk art form at Fest Grounds and the museum. You can also browse and purchase unique handmade items directly from these creators, immersing yourself in the rich culture and creativity of the Nordic heritage.
Nordic Wood Carving Demonstrations
Interested in wood carving? Visit the museum to meet renowned Nordic wood carvers Ray Kjos of Rushford and Marlyn Harley Langseth of Minneiska. They'll discuss their craft, share their experiences, and answer questions about the intricate process of creating Norwegian Kubbestols and the Norwegian Mangle Board recently donated by Ray.
All-School Reunion Band Concert
From 3 to 4 pm at the Bandstand, we'll have a special Peterson All-School Reunion Band Concert. Retired band director Maynard Thompson, has reached out to former students, many of whom are returning to perform! Brats and hot dogs will be available during the concert, and Burdey’s Café will stay open until 6:00 p.m. to serve family and friends.
Memorial Garden
We're proud to introduce the new memorial garden behind our museum, honoring John Erickson, a veteran and the museum's founder, as well as all veterans. This serene space features flowers, trees, evergreens, and a welcoming arbor. We're accepting donations for benches and new perennials.
New Business Participants
Help us welcome two new businesses participating in Gammel Dag this year:
- The WEN (formerly Andor Wenneson): Kids of all ages can paint wooden gnomes on the porch during the afternoon, and you can meet the new owner.
- Tiger Trail: Located on Main Street, this new shop invites you to explore what they have "in store" during Gammel Dag.
Download Your Event Map and Schedule
Plan your day with the full event map and schedule, and present the map at the information table to receive two free raffle tickets! Download it here.
Finally, as you drive into town, notice our new banners. We just can’t stop decorating with gnomes!