Scandinavian Festival, Astoria Oregon - June 21-23 2002
June 21-23 2002
|
Astoria Scandinavian Festival Changes for 2002 The
Astoria Scandinavian Festival Association is looking forward to its new
Home for 2002. The Festival
will be held at the Clatsop County Fairgrounds, less than 5 minutes away
from its old location. The
move allows for more booths, more entertainment and better parking.
This year the dates are June 21, 22, and 23.
Due to popular demand the Scandinavian Festival is opening it’s
doors a little earlier this year. Friday
afternoon the 21st after 2 pm some
booths will be open for business. Admission
is $6.00 for an adult 3-day souvenir button, $1.00 for children 6 – 12
and 5 & under are free. $2.00
will buy a weekend parking pass. The
Festival Association is looking forward to it’s new home and hopes to
better serve its patrons at this spacious - welcoming facility.
The
grand kick off of the Astoria Scandinavian Festival actually happens
Friday evening with the selection and crowning of Miss Scandinavia 2002.
After the coronation please follow Miss Scandinavia and her court
to the bon fire to burn hexes for good luck.
Following the hex burning, it is time to dance the night away,
Polka, Waltz, Hambo, Schottische… and maybe even a Chicken Dance or two.
For grownups that work up a thirst, the Wet Dog Café will be
providing a beer garden (Friday
night and Saturday 12pm-1am) with ice-cold beverages.
Saturday,
weather permitting there will be an Optog (walking parade) through
downtown Astoria. Return to the fairgrounds for the flag raising ceremony
as well as the raising of the Midsummer Pole.
Events and entertainment continue all day.
There is something for everyone - food, dancing, music, colorful
folk-costumes and crafts will be found during this Midsummer celebration.
Something new this year - Norwegian Fjord horses will be performing in the
outdoor arena. Be sure and
bring your dancing shoes for the Saturday night dance. Sunday
begins with a Pannukakku breakfast. There
is also a traditional nondenominational church service. Entertainment,
food, and fun continue through out the day.
The winner of the grand prize - round trip ticket to Scandinavia
will be drawn at the closing ceremonies. Astoria
has historically been known for its Scandinavian Heritage. Many area
residents are able to trace their own heritage back generations.
Local Lodges include the Danish Society, Finnish Brotherhood,
Ladies of Kaleva, Sons of Norway, Daughters of Norway, and Vasa Lodge. One
does not need to be Scandinavian to get into the spirit of the Annual
Astoria Scandinavian Midsummer Festival.
Great fun for the entire family! For
more information please contact us at ASMFA PO Box 34, Astoria, Oregon
97103 or contact the Astoria Area Chamber of Commerce. submitted
by:
|