From award-season buzz to cozy cultural connections, March brings a fresh lineup of Nordic-inspired events. Whether you’re curious about Norway’s Oscar-nominated film, eager to explore Sámi storytelling, ready to try your hand at Swedish baking, or looking to connect through language, history, or genealogy, there’s something this month for you. Read on for highlights of virtual gatherings that will carry a bit of the Nordics into your early spring days.
Norway’s Sentimental Value
Have you seen Norway’s Sentimental Value (“Affeksjonsverdi”) directed by Joachim Trier yet? It’s been nominated for 9 Academy Awards, including Best Picture, which is big for little Norway. The film’s description is as follows: Gustav (Stellan Skarsgård), an estranged father and once-celebrated director eager to reclaim his former glory, reconnects with his daughters Nora (Renate Reinsve) and Agnes (Inga Ibsdotter Lilleaas). When Gustav offers Nora the lead role in his new film, she refuses and learns he has given the part to a Hollywood star (Elle Fanning). Currently, it is screening at select theaters nationwide and available to stream via premium video on demand, such as Amazon Prime Video and Apple TV. Will you be watching The Oscars on March 15 to see how Norway’s film fares?
VIRTUAL EVENTS in MARCH and a bit beyond
Nordic Book Club Meetings: March 2026
Online book clubs continue to meet and provide ideas for reading and opportunities to discuss. Visit Nordic Book Club Meetings: March 2026 to see details about book selections and meeting dates coming up.
15 Weeks of Friluftsliv
Gnome Matter the Weather’s 15 Weeks of Friluftsliv wraps up this month. Read the final newsletter which has ideas “to keep you on the friluftsliv path through whatever wild weather comes our way.” Find activity suggestions such as Rosemaling Rocks, recipes, and friluftsliv-inspired books to cozy up with. This is not a typical virtual event attended online, but rather an online community dedicated to embracing the outdoors during the darkest days of the year. Inspired by the Norwegian concept of “friluftsliv” — which translates to “open-air living” or “free-air life” — the hosts, Tacy Quinn and Lauren Theis, inspire families and friends to get outside and welcome winter from December through March.
ASI Language Programs: Intro to Swedish with Jean Hanslin (Sunday, 3/8)
Are you curious about the Swedish language but not ready to commit to a multi-date class yet? Are you looking for a quick and low-pressure way to get excited and prepare for an upcoming visit to Sweden? This two-hour introductory workshop taught by Jean Hanslin is the perfect way to get a feel for Swedish—pick up a bit of grammar and learn how to pronounce some words as part of basic conversation. No materials required. This class meets virtually.
Pioneering Pages: Forming the New American Woman – Presentation with Dr. Nancy Coleman (Sunday, 3/22, Free)
Dr. Nancy Coleman joins Vesterheim for an online presentation in connection with the Vesterheim exhibit, Pioneering Pages: Forming the New American Woman. Learn about Norwegian immigrant sisters Ida Jensen Hansen and Mina Jensen who started a magazine for women in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, in the late 1880s. The publication offered information to help immigrant women learn customs and skills to adapt to American ways of life. But the magazine was much more, advocating for women’s education, equality, and suffrage. Dr. Coleman has worked with a team of Norwegian scholars to shed light on this important part of Norwegian immigration history through the “Pioneering Pages” exhibit at Vesterheim, open through May 18, 2026.
ASI Food Programs: Swedish Caramel Treats with Kristi Bissell (Thursday, 3/19)
Join Kristi Bissell for a crash course in incorporating tempting caramelized flavor into two classic Swedish baked goods. Kristi will demo a caramelized-almond-topped toscakaka (Tosca Cake) and kolasnittar, a delicious but straightforward caramel cookie, both approachable ways to incorporate caramel into baked goods at home. This class is presented as a demonstration, so students can watch the entire process and ask questions before tackling the dishes later. The recipe packet will be available for download one week in advance.
Book Talk with Sámi Writer Tina Harnesk Boström (Saturday, 3/21)
Join Swedish American Museum for an online book talk with Tina Harnesk Boström, a celebrated Sámi writer from Northern Sweden. Born and raised in Jokkmokk, she comes from a family rich in storytelling traditions, particularly on her mother’s side, which is Sami. Now living with her family in a village outside Arvidsjaur, Harnesk draws deeply on her upbringing and cultural heritage in her writing. Her latest novel, The Secret of Snow translated into English by Alice Menzies, follows a reclusive elderly couple whose lives intersect with younger newcomers in a small mountain town, unfolding a layered tale of shared history, grief, and cultural memory rooted in the Sámi experience. Combining warmth, humor, and emotional depth, The Secret of Snow has been praised as a poignant family drama that invites readers into the heart of Harnesk’s richly imagined world.
Cooking Class with Swedish American Museum: Swedish Easter Foods (Monday, 3/23)
Participants are taught Swedish recipes in this online cooking class. You can cook along with the group and ask questions along the way. In March, you will make different Swedish Easter foods.
Genealogy Session: Researching and Writing Your Family History with AI (Saturday, 3/28)
Join the Swedish American Museum for an engaging Zoom program focused on the importance of your family history for future generations. Learn how Marilyn Fettinger used AI to write the life story of her 4x great grandfather, Sven Magnus Ström and his family. We’ll begin by examining AI prompts to read, translate, and understand Swedish historical records followed by examples of how to use AI to transform the historical facts into captivating family narratives.
ASI Nordic Handcraft: Needle Felted Easter Egg with Laura Berlage (Sunday, 3/29)
Create the cutest felted easter eggs in this afternoon-long virtual class. Led by instructor Laura Berlage, students will follow step-by-step instructions to transform hand-dyed wool from the instructor’s own sheep into a felted easter egg that will fit in the palm of your hand. Needle felting is fun, easy, and therapeutic–and as your woolly creation takes shape, enjoy conversation with other students and learning more about wool and the sheep who produced the kit materials! The finished egg will be perfect for displaying ahead of the easter holiday.
Norwegian Language for Travelers (On-Demand)
Whether you’re planning a trip to the stunning fjords, the vibrant cityscapes of Oslo, or the charming coastal towns, learning Norwegian will enhance your experience and help you connect with the locals in a more meaningful way. Join Dr. Maren Anderson Johnson and learn Norwegian words and phrases. A kit of materials including workbook that supports the video instruction and a sweet treat from Vesterheim is included in the cost of registration. On-demand class content is available for 90 days from the time of purchase.
ASI Food Programs: Spring Finnish Standards Demo with Kristi Bissell (4/23)
Celebrate spring, Finnish style, with two stand out dishes. Kristi will demonstrate a light but cozy salmon soup, perfect for cooler spring days. Then she’ll turn to tippaleipä, a classic funnel cake recipe made for May Day in Finland. These delicious desserts are fun to make at home and a worthwhile project to celebrate the return of spring! While Kristi demos making the funnel cake batter and her preferred approach to deep frying, she will discuss some of the traditions around May Day in Finland.
ASI Food Programs: Nordic Cardamom Bread Demo with Kristi Bissell (5/14)
Whether you call it pulla, kardeumumabröd, or coffee bread, a classic Nordic bread combines floral cardamom, a crunchy sugar topping, and a beautiful braided presentation into a show-stopping yeasted loaf. Finland and Sweden’s answer to a challa, Cardamom Bread is commonly enjoyed as part of a fika or coffee hour, but is equally at home on the breakfast table—it makes especially stellar french toast! Since it’s hard to find in bakeries, your best bet is to tackle it at home, and luckily Kristi Bissell of the blog True North Kitchen is ready to walk through each step in this hourlong tutorial. From kneading to proofing, shaping, and baking, this demo will cover all steps for students to tackle this recipe at home.
Which events or experiences look interesting to you?
In other film news, Norway’s 
Gnome Matter the Weather’s
This adventure starts March 1 and will be available all month. Step into the world of kings, queens, palaces, and crowns! All Things Royal is a month-long, online language adventure designed especially for families. Learn about the Norwegian royal family while building vocabulary and exploring royal-themed crafts, games, and cultural activities right from home. Each family will receive a kit packed with fun supplies, creative activities, and everything you need to bring the royal experience to life. Instructor-led videos will guide families through royal vocabulary and cultural traditions—like learning how to say “king” in Norwegian and discovering what a “slott” is.
Now in its 8th year, the annual Sámi Film Festival celebrates the rich storytelling traditions of the Sámi, an Indigenous people of the northernmost parts of Finland, Norway, Sweden, and the Kola Peninsula of Russia. This year’s program is curated by acclaimed director, writer, artist, and composer Elle Márjá Eira, whose work in mediums from TV to classical opera has captivated audiences across the globe, and whose directorial debut Stolen reached the Top 10 list in 71 countries following its Netflix premiere in 2024. Virtual screenings will be available nationwide from February 6 through 13.
Join Vesterheim for an hour of traditional Norwegian stories, told by interdisciplinary artist and storyteller Laura Berlage! Tricksters abound in the old stories, and the tales of the Norse have a special one — Loki. Learn who Loki is and follow him on adventures of thievery, shapeshifting, and trickery, as he both helps and hinders the ancient gods of the north. Loki has a special way to make us laugh and cringe, and his adventures are tales to charm all ages.
Join Nichole Accettola, author of 
Beets may be a divisive ingredient, but beet lovers know they can provide great color, flavor, and nutrition in a range of recipes, and they become especially valuable in the colder months. Join Kristi Bissell as she demonstrates two Nordic-inspired recipes from her blog True North Kitchen, featuring both golden beets in a surprising soup and red beets in a tasty open faced sandwich. Students are sure to leave with new ideas and skills for putting this underutilized northern vegetable to good use!
Join the Swedish American Museum for an engaging Zoom program focused on the importance of archiving and preserving your family history for future generations. This online presentation will guide participants through practical ways to protect and organize family photographs, gather and record meaningful family stories, and safeguard treasured heirlooms such as wedding certificates, college diplomas, and birth or hospital records. Whether you are just beginning your family history journey or looking to better preserve materials you already have, this program offers valuable tools and inspiration. Sign up online to attend and take an important step in ensuring your family’s legacy is preserved and passed on.
Join Kristi Bissell of 
This experience starts February 1 and will be available all month. Join woodcarving instructor and Vesterheim Gold Medalist Rebecca Hanna in exploring the art of kroting, cutting lines into wood after it has been painted or stained. Inspired by work in the Vesterheim Folk Art School as well as the instructor’s personal work, students will be taught how to start kroting and given a simple design to try themselves. Note: This program has been designed for families to experience on their own schedules. There is no live Zoom event and no scheduled class time – your family can participate anytime during the month when it works for your schedule! Kit includes all folk art materials needed, some images as inspiration from the Vesterheim collection, and a treat.
Explore the traditional and beautiful Norwegian decorative painting known as rosemaling. In this beginner-friendly class, you will be introduced to and gain confidence in the essential strokes used in rosemaling. We’ll use a very limited color palette to keep the focus on clean, consistent linework and smooth brush control. Step-by-step practice will cover the basic C- and S-strokes and teardrops, tips for brush loading and pressure, and the chance to explore using both a flat, round, and detail brush. By the end, you’ll have a completed piece that highlights your growing skill and understanding of rosemaling fundamentals.
Create a sweet felted chickadee inspired by Minnesota’s Northwoods in this afternoon-long class. Led by instructor Laura Berlage, students will follow step-by-step instructions to transform hand-dyed wool from the instructor’s own sheep into a felted chickadee that will fit in the palm of your hand. The kit contains enough wool to make a second chickadee, perfect for continuing with this craft beyond class. Open to all skill levels. Suitable for ages 16+.
Enjoy the cold dark months by embracing hygge and making hyggelig (nice) moments by cozying up with some delicious hot beverages. Hyggelig is a Danish word that suggests a sense of coziness and comfortable contentment or well-being. We will explore some flavorful hot toddies, glögg, and a spiked hot chocolate. So grab a drink and your warmest blanket and enjoy yourself during the winter.
Join textile artist Kayla Ann for an evening of creativity and hands-on fun while learning the art of needle felting a 2-D felted folk flower bouquet. Using a piece of felt as the canvas and wool roving as the paint, Kayla will guide students through the fundamentals of this relaxing craft, teaching how to “paint” with wool and sculpt beautiful blooms from fiber. Whether you’re new to needle felting or looking to expand your skills, students will leave with the skills, tools, and inspiration to keep needle felting beyond the online workshop. Open to all skill levels. Suitable for ages 16+.
Begin your day with breakfast smørbrød, pyttipanne, and cardamom coffee bread in this New Nordic Brunch class. Menu also includes a signature cocktail called the Salty Hund and a signature coffee mocktail. This Vesterheim cooking class is designed as a small-group cook-along, and we invite exchange between the instructor and students in order to build community around food traditions. Enrollment deadline is January 17. Class is sold out but you may request to be added to the waitlist.
Collect a new set of go-to recipes with Kristi Bissell from the blog 
Celebrate the light during the darkest time of year with a cozy and festive baking class featuring St. Lucia Buns (lussekatter), the golden, saffron-scented pastries traditionally served on December 13 for St. Lucia Day. In this online hands-on class with Kristi Bissell from the blog 
Himmeli-making is a Nordic tradition brought to the U.S. by immigrants from Nordic and European countries. Traditionally hung above a table or dining area, these geometric straw mobiles are a Christmas tradition with a link to old folk farming beliefs for ensuring a bountiful harvest. You will gain experience working with natural material (straw) as you construct a medium sized himmeli mobile. Focus will also be on the cultural and historic significance of this craft found in Finland, Norway, Sweden, the Baltic countries, and beyond. Enrollment Deadline: 11/22
Spend an evening exploring Scandinavian silver work through the creation of your own silver and gold-washed earrings. Ever wonder why sølje pins have those shiny dangles with silver disc drops? These discs are called “spoons” or “shells” in Norwegian. Historically, silver has long been seen as a protective element against evil and abduction by the hulder folk (hidden folk) in Scandinavian folklore. Legend has it that should you run into the devil wearing your sparkling sølje, he would see his own reflection and run away! Don’t run away from a chance to create your own earrings in this short class designed to introduce you to the beauty of Scandinavian silver work. Students will assemble up to two pairs of earrings using multiple disc elements suspended from sterling silver French hook ear wires.
Make a cozy and cute heart embroidered with wool yarn and stitched onto a piece of curly sheepskin from the instructor’s flock. Learn how to work satin and stem stitch “in the hand” on washed wool fabric, as well as how to assemble the finished ornament. The finished piece is approximately 3.5 inches wide. This class includes a kit shipped to your home with wool fabric, stitch guide, hand-dyed wool embroidery yarn, red ribbon, white roving for stuffing, sheepskin heart for the back, embroidery needle, glover’s needles, and faux sinew for stitching, plus a PDF photo essay for additional instructions (a $70 value). Enrollment Deadline: 11/26
Create a festive ornament using needle felting techniques alongside teaching artist Kayla Ann. This fun project utilizes cookie cutters you may already have at home to create a felted ornament and/or gift topper with clean lines, even shape, and adorable details. This class is ideal for beginners looking to learn more about needle felting and Nordic culture. These delightful ornaments and gift toppers are the perfect way to step up your gift-giving or decorate your home. You will leave with both a finished project and the knowledge to continue needle felting outside of class. Registration for this kit-based class closes on 11/24.
The holidays aren’t just about meatballs, lutefisk, and lefse! In this class, you’ll prep for the season with a beautiful and scrumptious variety of holiday-inspired open-faced sandwiches. A signature cocktail and non-alcoholic beverage will also be included in the menu. This Vesterheim cooking class is designed as a small-group cook-along, and we invite exchange between the instructor and students in order to build community around food traditions. Enrollment Deadline: 11/29
In a twist on Vesterheim’s monthly bokprat discussions, join Vesterheim in December for a discussion of the Norwegian television series The Commoner, 
Plan now for this family experience that starts February 1 and will be available all month. Join woodcarving instructor and Vesterheim Gold Medalist Rebecca Hanna in exploring the art of kroting, cutting lines into wood after it has been painted or stained. Inspired by work in the Vesterheim Folk Art School as well as the instructor’s personal work, students will be taught how to start kroting and given a simple design to try themselves. Note: This program has been designed for families to experience on their own schedules. There is no live Zoom event and no scheduled class time – your family can participate anytime during the month when it works for your schedule! On the first of the month, you will receive an email with the links and information about how to access. Kit includes all folk art materials needed, some images as inspiration from the Vesterheim collection, and a treat.
Extended into October, while supplies last! Join the global virtual challenge that blends fitness, fun, and the Nordic spirit! Chart your own course (5K, 10K, or half-marathon), choose how you want to move (walk, run, hike, row, skateboard – it’s up to you!), and receive a custom participant t-shirt featuring a Viking longship crewed by herring!
A recording of this event will soon be available at 
Just in time for Sweden’s Kanelbullensdag (Cinnamon Bun Day) on October 4, take a page from Nichole Accettola’s recent cookbook 
In this auction, you’ll have the opportunity to bid on a tremendous selection of rosemaling (Norwegian decorative painting), weavings, Norwegian clothing, and creative woodworking items. Included in the auction is the chance to bid on a Viking 8-day European River Cruise for two as well. Proceeds from the auction benefit Vesterheim’s Folk Art School, which has provided classes since 1967 in fiber arts, woodworking, painting, cooking, jewelry, blacksmithing, knifemaking, and more.
While not as popular as it once was in Sweden, a Thursday dinner of yellow pea soup and Swedish pancakes is still a great cold-weather meal. Join Kristi Bissell to demo these two classic dishes from her blog, 
This experience starts November 1 and is available all month. Join artist Derek Brabender in an exploration of birchbark weaving using recycled Vesterheim Folk Art School catalogues. Inspired by Nordic folk art, as well as the re-use of materials, this program will show families how we can still continue the folk art tradition using recycled materials. Note: This program has been designed for families to experience on their own schedules. There is no live Zoom event and no scheduled class time – your family can participate anytime during the month when it works for your schedule! On the first of the month, you will receive an email with the links and information about how to access.
Maree Hampton is a knitting instructor for Vesterheim Folk Art School and one of the first recipients of a research grant from Vesterheim to study Norwegian knitting in Norway. While in Norway in the fall of 2024, Maree visited textile and folk art museums, attended a three-day knitting festival in Bergen, toured Norway’s long-standing yarn factories, and met everyday Norwegian knitters in the areas where she traveled. She will share what she learned in her month-long study in Norway, show images from her travels, highlight current trends in Norwegian knitting, and show how the experience has inspired her knitting, teaching, and more.
Join Kristi Bissell, founder of 
Raise a glass to the gods with this fun, history-infused class inspired by Norse mythology and Viking-era drinking traditions. We’ll create imaginative cocktails using ingredients like mead, herbs, and smoke, each paired with a mythological figure or story – from a thunderous drink for Thor to a mysterious one for Loki. This class is equal parts storytelling and hands-on cocktail creation, designed to bring ancient legends to life in a glass. This Vesterheim cooking class is designed as a small-group cook-along and we invite exchange between the instructor and students in order to build community around food traditions.
Join celebrated cook and author 
Join carver Charles Banks as he guides you through the creation of your very own flat plane ornament. This class will center around the creation of some festive stylized ornaments. Following the tradition of flat plane figure carving, you will use only a single knife to carve. You will receive an overview of the history and traditions of this style of carving, be introduced to the cuts and techniques of the reductive carving process, and learn finishing techniques – all culminating in your very own carving. Live instruction and video tutorials will be utilized as educational tools. This is a beginner friendly class. Enrollment deadline: October 22
“Crepe cakes” have been all the rage for a few years now. Join us to create two Nordic versions of this fun celebratory treat. We’ll make one savory version and one sweet, with plenty of creative ideas to get your entire family into the kitchen. This Vesterheim cooking class is designed as a small-group cook-along, and we invite exchange between the instructor and students in order to build community around food traditions. Enrollment Deadline: October 31
Try needle felting while making sweet spring-themed ornaments for a Swedish påskris or Easter tree. In this virtual class, students will work alongside Seattle-based artist Kayla Ann and practice forming 3D objects and adding miniature details using the materials from the provided kit. Students will leave class with fundamental needle felting skills and a handful of colorful ornaments to celebrate spring.
Salmon is a staple of Nordic cuisine, and in this one-hour demo, Kristi will share some favorite ways to serve it from her blog, 
Create the cutest spring rabbit in this afternoon-long class! Students will follow instructor Laura’s step-by-step instructions to transform hand-dyed wool from her family’s own sheep into a felted rabbit that will fit in the palm of your hand. Needle felting is fun, easy, and therapeutic, and as your wooly friend comes to life, you’ll enjoy conversation with other students and learn more about wool and the sheep who produced your kit materials! Kits ($32 value) are included in the class fee.
Take a page from Nichole Accettola’s recent cookbook 
Swedish smörgåsbord has a fun and fascinating history, and we’ll cover both the history, etiquette, and some of the classic dishes typically served at this vast buffet. As we talk, we’ll prepare a light five-course tasting menu with each course representing the progression of tables in a smörgåsbord.
Join Swedish writer and filmmaker Maja Hagerman for a compelling discussion on her extensive research on the spread of racial theories in academic communities in the Nordic countries between 1910 and 1935, with a focus on Swedish race biologist Herman Lundborg. Hagerman’s research formed the basis of her documentary film, to be screened virtually at a later date. Presented in conjunction with 
Gather some tips and tricks for building a smörgåstårta, or Swedish sandwich cake, at home. This savory centerpiece uses sandwich fillings of all varieties to feed a large group with style. Kristi Bissell of 
Join Vesterheim Gold Medalist Charles Banks as he guides you through the creation of your very own flat plane figure carving. For this class, we will carve a Scandinavian classic, a stylized Nordic Fjords Man. Following the tradition of flat plane figure carving, you will use only a single knife to carve out this character. You will receive an overview of the history and traditions of this style of carving, be introduced to the cuts and techniques of the reductive carving process, and learn finishing techniques – all culminating in your very own carving. Live instruction and video tutorials will be utilized as educational tools, as well as practice sticks, a unique “head study,” and printed imagery of your character. Enrollment deadline: April 16.
Learn to tackle a classic Swedish princesstårta in this virtual demo with Kristi of 
If you’ve ever thought about trying rosemaling, here’s a great opportunity to take the brush in hand! Rosemaling is the wonderful folk art of Norway that is based on the flowing scrolls and flowers that are made up of “C” and “S” strokes. This class introduces students to these basic strokes that are the foundation of rosemaling, as well as the detailed line work that completes a rosemaling project. The class will include demonstrations and plenty of hands-on practice. Students will practice strokes and complete a project on board. The class will be taught using acrylic paint. If you’ve painted with oil, this would be a good opportunity to explore acrylics. A complete kit of supplies (a $45 value) is included in the cost of enrollment. Enrollment deadline: May 9.
Curious about how tapestries are made and ready to try your hand at pictorial weaving? This most ancient form of textile creation is rich with history and an invitation for creative expression. Master weaver Laura Berlage will take you on a multi-week journey into the magical world of tapestry, where you will learn to transform warp and weft into a peaceful sunset landscape, measuring approximately 10 x 10 inches. Starting with a simple frame loom, focus will be given to establishing good tapestry technique and learning the process for horizontal and angled forms – beginning with foundational geometrics and building into more naturalistic forms. Fundamentals of cartoon creation and shading will also be covered, and we’ll explore tapestry pieces from Vesterheim’s collection along the way. Enrollment deadline: May 12.
Open up those cupboards and freezers and dig out some pantry staples to whip up cozy snacks for cold winter days! Kristi Bissell of 
Join celebrated Norwegian Arctic cultural presenter and preserver Stina Fagertun to hear folktales from north of the Arctic Circle. Gather the family together to listen to Stina and be brought to the Arctic Circle with some ancient stories and folktales. The stories will delight the children and whoever else in the family loves a good story.
Are you curious about the Sámi language and culture? Are you looking for a quick and low-pressure way to get excited and prepare for an upcoming visit to the north of Finland, Sweden, or Norway? This two-hour introductory workshop taught by Áila O’Loughlin is the perfect way to learn some history of the nine living dialects of Sápmi, get a feel for North Sámi, pick up a bit of grammar and learn how to pronounce some words as part of basic greetings. Families welcome!
Sámi author and journalist Elin Anna Labba will discuss her latest publication 
In the “How to Winter” workshop, Kari Leibowitz will share research and practical strategies participants can use to embrace winter wherever they live. Drawing from her psychological research experience, her time living in the Arctic of Norway, and her travels to Nordic countries researching how to embrace winter, Kari will help participants learn how to cultivate a more positive wintertime mindset. Kari will also share interactive exercises for making winter wonderful and highlight how these evidence-based practices can help you find meaning and opportunity in times of darkness or difficulty year-round. Join us to participate in the chat, to expand your mindset, and to embrace the cold, dark days of winter!
This is the first in a series of four live lectures that will be held on Wednesdays in January. Each lecture has a separate registration. The Sámi are the only recognized Indigenous people in Europe whose lands, Sápmi, are claimed and divided by the Norwegian, Swedish, Finnish, and Russian nation-states. Despite the central roles they’ve played in the political, economic, and cultural histories of Northern Europe, the Sámi are commonly depicted as ahistorical wildlings whose lands are an unused frontier, ripe for development today. This series illuminates how untrue those depictions are. “Sámi History 101” examines the fundaments of Sámi history and culture, surveying oral histories, subsistence practices, societal organization, symbols of Sámi culture, and historical relations with neighbors. For information on the other sessions, visit 
Before bakers bought yeast at the store, they captured and used natural yeasts at home, and these flavors and techniques are essential to recreating certain Nordic breads. While we can use commercial yeast today, baking with natural yeast, otherwise known as a sourdough starter, still adds nutrition, flavor, and good keeping quality to breads of all kinds. In this hour-long demo, Kristi Bissell of 
Join woodcarver Steph Hughes and learn the art of kolrosing while being inspired by the story of the sloop Restauration, which will be the subject of the kolrosing design. Come learn as a family by kolrosing the ship that brought some of the first Norwegian immigrant families to America. There is no live Zoom event and no scheduled class time – your family can participate anytime during the month when it works for your schedule. Price includes a special folk art class kit designed for two participants to explore kolrosing. The kit includes all materials needed, some images from the Vesterheim collection as inspiration, and a treat.
In the period beginning in 1825 and for about 100 years following, nearly 40% of the population of Norway – more than 800,000 Norwegians – immigrated to the United States. Most of those immigrants came for “economic opportunity,” but the first immigrants – known as the Sloopers of 1825 – came for religious freedom. The voyage was three years in the planning by an alliance of Quakers and Haugean Lutherans. Beginning on July 4th, 1825, a 54-foot sloop named Restaurasjonen (The Restauration) took 52 passengers on a 98-day journey from Stavanger, Norway to New York City. This presentation follows the story from its roots (in the Napoleonic Wars), through the voyage itself, the reception in New York City, and finally to the first Norwegian settlement in the United States in Kendall, New York.
The Museum hosts genealogy sessions the fourth Saturday of most months via Zoom. In January, Dan Hubbard will present “I” is for Identity Crisis: Part 1 of 2. We think of identity as something fixed and simple, but as we try to reconstruct the identities of long-gone people, we need to realize that identity is a much slipperier concept. The things we use to define a person’s identity can change during that person’s lifetime. There are also questions of how a person self-identifies, the motivations they can have for changing how they self-identify, and how those changes affect the records they leave behind. Part 2 will take place Saturday, 2/22 (
Are you curious about the Finnish language, but not ready yet to commit to a multi-date class? Are you looking for a quick and low-pressure way to get excited and prepare for an upcoming visit to Finland? This two-hour introductory workshop is the perfect way to get a feel for Finnish, pick up a bit of grammar, and learn how to pronounce some words as part of basic conversation.
Norway has a variety of more than 450 different folk costumes, many of which feature highly embellished aprons, purses, beaded breastplates, and other adornment. Join textiles instructor Jane Addams and Vesterheim Chief Curator Laurann Gilbertson as they explore examples of the fine handcraft that makes each style of bunad so striking and special.
Dr. Maren Johnson, Luther College’s Associate Professor of Nordic Studies and Torgerson Center for Nordic Studies Director, facilitates a regular bokprat (book group), discussing Scandinavian authors and Scandinavian life. December’s discussion is a twist on the usual format and features the film Christmas as Usual available on Netflix. Thea is going to her rural hometown to celebrate a classic Norwegian Christmas with her family, but this year she’s bringing along Jashan, her Indian boyfriend, which will put everyone’s preconceived beliefs and traditions on their heads.
Join Vesterheim to ring in the New Year with some appetizers inspired by New Nordic cuisine! Celebrated chef, cookbook author, food historian, and Nordic Food Geek Patrice Johnson will demonstrate creative takes on classic appetizers. Recipes will include new spins on old favorites, something sweet, and signature cocktails/mocktails. This Vesterheim cooking class is designed as a small-group cook-along and they invite exchange between the instructor and students in order to build community around food traditions.
Create a felted reindeer ready to take off for the North Pole in this afternoon-long class. Students will follow step-by-step instructions to transform hand dyed wool from instructor Laura Berlage’s own sheep into a felted reindeer complete with antlers and bell! This class builds on basic needle felting skills and is appropriate for students who have previous needle felting experience, such as one of ASI’s other ASI classes. Suitable for ages 16+. Kits ($32 value) are included in the class fee. Each kit includes the tools and materials for one student. Registration closes December 11.
Join Kristi Bissell of 
Get cozy this fall with a vegetarian soup dinner! Kristi Bissell of 
Join the National Nordic Museum for a virtual talk on Icelandic flora with Dr. Pawel Wasowicz, senior scientist at the Icelandic Institute of Natural History. In this talk, inspired by the special exhibition 
Start preparing for the holidays with make-ahead recipes perfect for gifting and entertaining! Kristi Bissell of 
Light some candles, grab your favorite mug, and join Vesterheim for an evening of warm drinks and good company as we celebrate the coziest time of year! Malina Bickford will guide you in exploring different styles of hot cocktails (mocktails!) incorporating ingredients from the pantry, some unexpected flavors, and plenty of aquavit! Whether you’re an aspiring mixologist or simply looking to unwind with a steamy nightcap, this promises to be a very koselig experience. Enrollment Deadline: 11/4
Kransekake is considered the “queen of Norwegian cakes,” and Nordic cooking expert and cookbook author Patrice Johnson will help you construct your own traditional cake tower during this fun interactive baking experience. During this special online cooking class, you will learn how to prepare this almond wreath cake baked in graduated rings. This class is currently sold out but you can be added to the waitlist.
Are you just starting your Swedish language learning journey, but are already keen to start reading? Are you looking for an opportunity to keep up with your Swedish after the term ends? This class is for you! Read and discuss the winter story Julen kommer till Mumindalen (Christmas Comes to the Mumin Valley) by Tove Jansson and participate in activities to support your reading and vocabulary building. This class is for students with at least one year of Swedish language study or equivalent. Class materials will be provided by the instructor.
Create a festive, quick decoration with needle felting this season! This fun project makes use of cookie cutters you may already have at home to make a felted ornament with clean lines, even shape, and adorable details. Students will work alongside instructor Kayla Ann to learn needle felting basics which are applicable to a range of other projects. Once you get started, felted ornaments become an easy project and the perfect gift to decorate a present or tree! Students 
Delve into ancestry and history at this genealogy session with Sue Schlichting focused on the resource 
Join Vesterheim and Kate Running to learn how to work with two colors of yarn to make this patterned hat. Work with a Nordic-inspired motif and learn the cultural tradition of stranded knitting. Intermediate level, no colorwork experience necessary but students should know how to knit & purl. A kit of materials (a $40 value) with Strikkegarn yarn is shipped to your home and included in the cost of registration. Enrollment Deadline: 11/11
Get a peek into San Francisco chef and baker Nichole Accettola’s kitchen this holiday season! Nichole, who lived and cooked for many years in Denmark, today runs Kantine bakery café in San Francisco and is the author of 
Bake along with Kristi Bissell of 
Create a jolly felted gnome ready to bring home some holiday joy in this afternoon-long class. Students will follow step-by-step instructions to transform hand dyed wool from instructor Laura Berlage’s own sheep into a felted festive gnome (known in Sweden as a tomte or in Norway as a nisse) complete with long cap and beard! Students will get tips for shaping a cheerful face as well as hear stories from Laura’s farm and discuss gnomes in Scandinavian culture and beyond. Suitable for all skill levels, ages 11+. Kits ($32 value) are included in the class fee. Each kit includes the tools and materials for one student. Registration closes December 2.