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Spanish Fork has a strong Icelandic heritage, and each year the Icelandic Association of Utah honors that heritage by hosting Iceland Days.¬ For three days people gather to learn more about Iceland and their ancestors.
Jack Tobiasson, President of the Board of Directors for the Icelandic Association, says one of their goals is to, "build bridges between the two countries." To do that they have two events each year. The first event is in February and the second is in June. "June 17 is Iceland's national independence day," said Tobiasson. They use Iceland Days to celebrate the holiday.
On Friday, June 20, the association provided workshops for the public.¬ The workshops available were, "How to Stay on the Good Side of Icelanders in Everyday Life While Visiting In Iceland", "How to Write a History of Your Icelandic Ancestor" and "Cooking Your Own Icelandic Pancakes."
Tobiasson also sang Icelandic folk songs with his granddaughter. "It just tickled me to no end knowing people enjoyed it," he said.
Saturday, was filled with games for kids, balloons, food and a presentation with storytelling and singing. Barnakor, a children's choir, sang Icelandic songs, and Cherie Davis, a storyteller told An Iclelandic Tale.¬ There were even Icelandic Sheep for people to enjoy. There was Icelandic food, including pancakes and doughnuts, Icelandic hot dogs, and a lamb lunch.
Iceland Days ended on Sunday at a fireside. Guest speaker was Dr. Jack R. Christianson.¬ He talked about his heritage.
"I care about the past," said Christianson. "I have Iceland blood and Scottish blood, which equals warrior."¬ He told a few stories about how his blood has gotten him into trouble.¬
Every Memorial Day, Christianson visits his family's graves.¬ "We love our heritage.¬ And our ancestors, if they were Icelandic, they went through some hard times," said Christianson.
Tobiasson says all three days were a success. "People came because they wanted to be together as Western Icelanders. I love people coming together to celebrate their heritage," he said.
The Icelandic Association of Utah has a website containing all their information: www.utahicelanders.com. |
