Beloved tradition returns May 23-24 with new villages, big-name performers and community spirit

The city of Ephraim invites residents and visitors alike to join in a landmark celebration: the 50th anniversary of the Scandinavian Heritage Festival, taking place Friday, May 23rd and Saturday, May 24th, on the Snow College campus and throughout the Sanpete Valley.

What began half a century ago as a grassroots fundraiser to help restore Ephraim’s historic pioneer buildings has grown into one of Utah’s most vibrant cultural celebrations, now drawing nearly 20,000 attendees each year. This milestone event promises to be the biggest and most memorable yet.

“This festival isn’t just for those with Scandinavian ancestry,” organizers say. “It’s for anyone who values community, connection to the past–and fantastic entertainment!”

A step back in time

One of the festival’s most popular features, the historical-immersion villages, is getting even better in this anniversary year. Festivalgoers can now explore three distinct living-history areas:

The Old Scandinavian Village, where the flavors, crafts, and folktales of Scandinavia come to life. Visitors can sample lefse and Swedish meatballs, browse handcrafted goods, and enjoy storytellers passing down tales from centuries past.

The Pioneer Village, honoring the settlers who made Ephraim their home after an arduous journey across oceans and prairies. This area celebrates Ephraim’s origins as “Little Denmark.”

The Viking Village, a fan-favorite in recent years, returns with thrilling Viking reenactments including hand-to-hand combat, blacksmithing, ancient Norse storytelling, traditional games, and more.

Entertainment for all ages

Music and dance are at the heart of the festival, and this year’s entertainment lineup spans genres and generations. Festival stages will host everything from traditional Scandinavian and Celtic tunes to bluegrass, swing, jazz, folk, classic and alternative rock, and even “rock opera.”

Headlining the celebration is ABBA FAB, a nationally touring tribute act honoring the iconic music of ABBA. Known for their high-energy performances and dazzling costumes, they’re sure to be a highlight for fans of 70s and 80s pop hits.

Other standout performances include:

• Fox Brother’s Band, a Salt Lake City favorite blending multiple genres with a high-octane stage presence.
• Valhalla, an original Viking-themed musical-theater show by Spanish Fork’s own Stephen Gashler.
• Sko’gafoss / BYU International Folk Dancers, known for their colorful costumes and traditional choreography.

A host of additional performers with Utah roots will bring their talents to the stage, including Bombshell Flowers, Fat in the Fire, Lincoln Highway, The Phat Old Professors, Fiddle Express, The Last Wild Buffalo, Madeline LeBaron and Friends, Right Front Pocket, UTAIKO, Intense Country Band, Rook Band, Skyline Music Studio Entertainers, Sammy G Trio, Junction 89, Manti High School Rock Band, Ginger Snaps, and Dallin Summers.

Family fun, heritage and adventure

Storytelling is another festival cornerstone. Both Friday and Saturday feature packed schedules of Scandinavian folktales, Norse mythology, and pioneer ancestry stories, providing cultural enrichment for all ages.

For movie lovers, Pixar’s “Brave” will be screened outdoors Friday night at Pioneer Park.

Activities abound, including:

•  “Spillingsskatten” Viking Treasure Hunt with a grand prize sponsored by T-Mobile
• Maypole dancing, arts & crafts, and workshops including a Dala Horse painting class
• Sporting events such as tennis, cornhole, and pickleball tournaments
• Chalk art competition with cash prizes
• Car show, 1K and 5K fun runs, and a quilt show
• Viking Beard Contest and the always-hilarious Wife-Carrying Contest

Saturday kicks off with the beloved Aebleskiver Breakfast at 8:00 AM, hosted by the Lions Club, followed by the Grand Parade at 10:00 AM–a can’t-miss community spectacle featuring floats, music, and plenty of local flair.

Come celebrate 50 years of community

As the festival marks five decades of honoring Ephraim’s heritage, organizers say this year is about more than just nostalgia. It’s about rekindling a sense of shared identity and celebrating the strength of community across generations.

To view the full festival schedule, event maps, and more information, visit: scandinavianfestival.org

Whether you’re of Danish descent or just Danish-at-heart, come be part of Ephraim’s most treasured tradition–and help write the next chapter of its history.