Fall is officially here, and it’s the perfect time to plan a Nordic-themed movie night. Whether you’re looking for an inspiring documentary, heartwarming comedy or adventure film that keeps you on the edge of your seat, you have plenty of options to choose from.
To celebrate the first annual Leif Erikson Day in the U.S., in 1964, Minnesota Governor Rolvaag asked Sons of Norway and the Minnesota press to find a young man with the same name. Fifteen Minnesotans responded, but not all were of Norwegian descent. Gradually, the number was narrowed to two - a boy of 11 from Austin and Leif, age 17, from Moorhead. Since the Leif Eriksen coming to the ceremony from Norway was 16 years old, the 17-year-old Minnesotan was deemed a better choice.
Halloween is an American holiday which didn’t catch on in the rest of the world until recently. However, it has increasingly become a phenomenon in various parts of the globe. One country that has grown well-acquainted with Halloween is Norway. The traditions of Halloween were “imported” to Norway in the late 90’s and are now quite common, at least in the larger cities.
Spanning across the southeast region of Østfold in Viken county, the 7th edition of the Ladies Tour of Norway was held this year from August 12-15. The athletes in this world-class bicycle race compete as teams of up to 6 cyclists, often riding close to each other to take advantage of drafting, and use a variety of other tactics to reduce drag and increase speed. This year’s race featured 18 teams, crewed by top competitors from all over the world.
The perfect soup to make as the temperatures get colder, Norwegian Betasuppe!
In the October issue of Viking, we explored how Norway has been taking sustainable steps forward by using electric ferries. The country currently has 31 fully-electric ferries in operation, and that number is expected to grow substantially.
Norway has a vibrant brewery culture and an interesting wine history to match. In the September issue of Viking magazine, we explored the wine culture found throughout Scandinavia.
Situated at a small bay at the head of the Oslofjord, Oslo City Hall brims with color, charm and history.
Sometimes called “The Norwegian Riviera” for its temperate climate and abundance of “must experience” attractions, the county of Agder rests on the southernmost end of Norway. Idyllic, tree- dotted valleys are draped between rugged mountains and wooded heathland. They follow the rivers as they bend south through the hill country, emptying into the sea. The name Agder itself is mysterious. It predates the Norwegian language and is thought to be derived from Old Norse terms meaning either “the land that juts out to the sea” or “the land by the troubled sea.” Both would be appropriate.
Norway’s national dog, the Norsk elghund (Norwegian Elkhound or more accurately “moose dog”) is a medium-sized dog that has hunted, herded and played guard dog since Viking times. This ancient Spitz is one of the oldest dog breeds, having originated as early as 5,000 B.C. Elkhounds have been found buried at Viking grave sites such as the Svarthola in Jæren, Norway. According to DNA research, the elkhound is descended from an extinct type of gray wolf originating in western Russia and central Europe.
