A cheeky question I like to ask people is if they would rather be a pirate or a Viking. It’s a fun icebreaker and often elicits a humorous reaction from the person I ask it to. The question itself is an interesting one because it has both positive and negative outcomes based on whichever option you choose. Being a pirate could be exciting in the sense that you are searching for long-lost buried treasure. But the downside is being stuck at sea in dangerous waters. A Viking sounds interesting in the sense of exploring new land and wearing fancy armor. However, constant battles and the ringing of Viking horns made of animal bones might be too much. My answer to this quirky question is that I would rather be a pirate. I am a generational child of the Pirates of the Caribbean movie series after all. Yet with the Nordic Midsummer Festival coming up later this month, I’ll make an exception and choose to be a Viking for the week.     

Every year, Nordic Northwest hosts the Oregon Midsummer Festival, and it certainly is not one to miss. Midsummer celebrations are a longstanding tradition in nations like Sweden. It is a time marked by bright sun and warm weather, along with being the longest day of the year. Flower crowns, dancing, delicious food, and Viking heritage come alive during the festivities. The nation of Sweden views this ancient tradition as a time of both mystery and promise (as stated directly on their government website).

Additionally, it is a moment for farmers to reflect on the growth of their crops. A family member of mine lives in Sweden, and she has confirmed that their Midsummer festivities are something that they look forward to every year. Fortunately for us, we can take part in the celebrations right here in Oregon. The event’s organizers told me guests can look forward to raising the Midsummer pole, enjoying Nordic food, crafts for kids, an exciting scavenger hunt, games, live music, and so much more. 

The annual Oregon Midsummer Festival, hosted by Nordic Northwest, will take place on June 27th and 28th. On Friday, June 27th, the festivities will take place from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm, and on Saturday, June 28th, from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. Its location is at the Nordic Northwest building, right on the border of Tigard and Portland at 8800 SW Oleson Rd. Portland, OR 97223. Some activities offered there will include making your flower crowns and helping to decorate the traditional Midsummer pole. The event will feature live music and performances, along with numerous vendors. Lawn games will also be offered, including a tug-of-war and a gnome-themed scavenger hunt. There will also be a massive 20-foot replica of a Viking ship. There is something here for everyone, and the general atmosphere is always incredibly warm and inviting.    

This is a highly anticipated event that people eagerly look forward to participating in every year. You don’t need to know anything about Nordic culture either. Come and enjoy the fun, and see everything they have to offer. There is something here for everyone, and it is a great way to kick off summer break. Tickets can be purchased online and are $19 for adults to attend both days. Ticket prices for children aged 6-17 are $10 for both days, and children under five are admitted free of charge. You can also purchase tickets at the door, but they will incur an additional cost. Parking also fills up quickly, so carpooling, public transportation, and ride-share apps are a smart option. In addition to the Midsummer Festival, Nordic Northwest features a permanent installation of the Ole Bolle Troll by Danish artist Thomas Dambo. Made primarily from wood and other recycled materials, this gigantic sculpture is a permanent fixture and available for viewing every day during daylight hours. This 19-foot-tall troll is not only awe-inspiring but also immerses you right amid Norse mythology.   

If you can’t make it to the Oregon Midsummer Festival, then you should at least make time for brunch at their restaurant, Broder Söder. Located inside the same Nordic Northwest building, they offer traditional Scandinavian cuisine, making it a meal the entire family will enjoy. One of the items on their menu includes their Lost Eggs served in a warm skillet with Nordic Rye Bread. Another mouthwatering option is their Rejer, Laks, and Aeg, which features prawns and lox served over Nordic bread, accompanied by a remoulade sauce. There is so much to see and do at Nordic Northwest, and the venue also hosts regular events throughout the year. But it most certainly is their Oregon Midsummer Festival that will transport you to a world of trolls, fairies, and yes, even Vikings.