We were surprised this week when Viking Fest Corporation informed the city that there would be no big booms at this year’s celebration of Norwegian Constitution Day. But not entirely.

The 2003 show fizzled for a number of reasons, ranging from the non-profit’s debt to lack of sponsorship and the economy. Bad decisions in the past will haunt the group for years to come but we are confident that Viking Fest has the strength to breathe new life into the long-running event.

The strength to make future events better than ever.

And we know that the day will come again when fireworks once again light up the sky at Viking Fest.We hope it comes soon.

North Kitsap non-profits rely heavily on the communities they serve. If we don’t give, they cease to exist and our communities take yet another step toward losing their unique flavor.

Imagine a Poulsbo without Viking Fest, Yul Fest or Fireworks on the Fjord. A Kingston without a Fourth of July celebration, Tiny Town or a Blue Grass concert.

No Indianola Days in Indianola.

No rummage sale in Hansville.

No Chief Seattle Days in Suquamish or S’Klallam Days in Port Gamble.

The list of the events that sets North Kitsap apart goes on and on. They are a big part of what makes this corner of the world such a great place to live and directly represent the sort of people who live here. As residents and businesses we must make sure that our community doesn’t lose the events that help define us.

Viking Fest may be lowering the boom on May 16 but its up to us to ensure future celebrations in North Kitsap don’t lower anything else.