Poulsbo’s three-day Nordic celebration was yet another plundering success. At 51 years old, Viking Fest doesn’t show any signs of slowing down or moving on to Valhalla anytime soon.
Beginning on Friday, May 17, hundreds of visitors began arriving at the city along the shores of Liberty Bay in order to pay homage to the heritage of Poulsbo’s founding father, Jørgen Eliason, at Muriel Iverson Williams Waterfront Park, a Viking village was constructed wherein artisans worked on their crafts and educated visitors on traditional Scandinavian culture and traditions. Burly, helmet wearing men posed for photos while brandishing bearded axes beside smiling tourists — quite the stark contrast to what likely would’ve transpired 1,000 years ago.
The Viking Fest Parade, always a crowd favorite, saw local groups marching along Front Street, tossing candy to those watching along the sidewalk. Bremerton’s Sons of Norway Oslo Lodge featured a rather notable float as the group pulled a Viking Longship remarkably similar to a ship featured in a mural adorning the facade of the downtown sweet shop, Boehm’s Chocolates. On Sunday folks gathered at the Austin Kvelstad Pavilion to enjoy a series of displays of intestinal fortitude in Viking Fest’s doughnut and lutefisk eating contests. Arguably more athletic feats of strength were also held in the park as the Viking Fest Strong Man competition took place.
This year’s Viking Fest was a roaring good time, Poulsbo had the opportunity to cut loose and let its Scandinavian roots shine through, while also providing the opportunity for local families and tourists to enjoy some wholesome entertainment.
Until next year, keep your horns sharp. We’ll see you in 2020.
The 2019 Viking Fest Parade saw many local groups taking to the streets of downtown Poulsbo in order to celebrate Poulsbo’s Scandinavian Heritage. Brian Judge/Kitsap News Group
The Viking Village featured craftspeople showcasing their wares and various Nordic art. Nick Twietmeyer/Kitsap News Group
Viking Fest features a doughnut eating contest hosted by Sluys Bakery as well as a lutefisk eating contest. Tyler Shuey/Kitsap News Group
Food vendors are a tasty fixture of Viking Fest year after year. Nick Twietmeyer/Kitsap News Group
Feats of strength are another staple of Viking Fest, contestants compete in the Strong Man Competition by hurling kegs over a post. Tyler Shuey/Kitsap News Group
