Welcome to the Scandinavian Christmas Fair
Dec. 1st, 2012, Raleigh, North Carolina
Holshouser Building, State Fairgrounds
The Scandinavian Christmas Fair in Raleigh, North Carolina is an authentic
celebration of the traditions of the Scandinavian countries, Sweden, Norway,
Denmark, Finland and Iceland.
This old-world celebration is certain to get you in the spirit of the
season. This year marks the 16th anniversary of the Julmarknad (Christmas
Fair in Swedish) and it attracts people from Scandinavia and of Scandinavian
descent as well as many Americans who have made this an annual tradition.
Several local Scandinavian organizations are represented at the fair
and there are plenty of opportunities to learn a little more about the
people and customs of the Scandinavian countries. You might even pick
up a few words in a local tongue and develop a taste for that traditional
herring!
The Scandinavian Christmas Fair is sponsored by SWEA – a Swedish
women’s organization and Vasa - a Swedish-American organization.
The proceeds of this event go towards scholarships and to support local
Scandinavian initiatives.
Talented artisans and vendors offer unique crafts and gifts from all
over Scandinavia. You will find everything from knives and quilts to crystal
pieces, jewelry, home made bread, and Christmas decorations. |
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Family
The Lucia Procession is one of the highlights.
Children and adults perform traditional songs in costumes of Lucia, gnomes,
and Staffan the Farmhand. Other family activities include visit
with Tomten (Santa), dancing
around the Christmas tree, storytelling,
and Swedish candy. |
On stage
The stage has something going on the entire day.
The local Scandinavian community will be showing traditional folk
dances, playing folk music and singing. There will be a “fashion
show” featuring the beautiful folk costumes of the Scandinavian
countries. |
Food
The fair features a variety of homemade foods, such as Swedish meatballs,
salmon and pea soup. Visit the “Coffee Corner” for coffee
and wonderful home baked pastries. Try the traditional spiced wine
(glögg) and salty candy! |
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