I'm betting lots of Sons of Norway members are either still recovering from some awesome District Conventions and getting ready for the upcoming International Convention in August. It's a busy summer, to be sure, but the excitement isn't going to stop there! This fall promises keep the energy level high with our involvement in Norsk Høstfest 2010!
We're already working on some great ideas here at the H.Q. and the one I'm really excited about is that this year all members can get a 15% discount on the Norwegian Buffet at En To Tre, the finest dining experience at Norsk Høstfest!
Let me tell you, the food is amazing and restaurant is like an oasis of calm in the middle of all the hustle and bustle of Norsk Høstfest. I've eaten there a number of times and I've never had a better Norwegian meal! The chef, Willy Hansen is a real culinary genius who truly cares about the dining experience--which is probably why he can often be found mingling with diners during the meal, making sure they are having an exquisite time!
Combine the awesome experience with the discount and I guarantee you will have one of the most memorable Norsk Høstfest experiences imaginable!
Showing posts with label Norsk Høstfest. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Norsk Høstfest. Show all posts
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Friday, October 2, 2009
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Hostfest 2009: Opening Day
The first day of Høstfest is always exciting for me because there's this charge in the air. All the attendees have a spring in their step and all the booth workers are still fresh-faced and full of enthusiasm. In my opinion its the best day of the whole festival. To prove that, I was already out there for a couple hourse this morning, even though I wasn't scheduled until 5 p.m.
I'm glad I went, too, because it gave me a chance to see some of my favorite folks who I only get to see once or twice a year. I think a lot of people who come to Minot every year have the same experience--they get to meet up with friends who live far, far away and spend a week reaffirming their friendships and strengthening connections. This is important, I think, because it helps to reinforce connections with heritage and culture. It also provides a soapbox from which people can yell at the top of their lungs "I'm Norwegian and I love it!"
I think the reason this is such an interesting thing to me is because of my Gen X upbringing. My generation doesn't get worked up about much of anything, so seeing 60,000 people getting all jazzed about their heritage is a real wonder to me. I can't wait to go back this afternoon!
Later today and throughout the week, I'll be posting some photos, video and tweeting from the festival grounds (I got me hooked up with a press pass!). So, keep checking back here and at www.twitter.com/sonsofnorway.
I'm glad I went, too, because it gave me a chance to see some of my favorite folks who I only get to see once or twice a year. I think a lot of people who come to Minot every year have the same experience--they get to meet up with friends who live far, far away and spend a week reaffirming their friendships and strengthening connections. This is important, I think, because it helps to reinforce connections with heritage and culture. It also provides a soapbox from which people can yell at the top of their lungs "I'm Norwegian and I love it!"
I think the reason this is such an interesting thing to me is because of my Gen X upbringing. My generation doesn't get worked up about much of anything, so seeing 60,000 people getting all jazzed about their heritage is a real wonder to me. I can't wait to go back this afternoon!
Later today and throughout the week, I'll be posting some photos, video and tweeting from the festival grounds (I got me hooked up with a press pass!). So, keep checking back here and at www.twitter.com/sonsofnorway.
Friday, September 25, 2009
3 days and counting
It's a gloomy, rainy day here in Minneapolis and I am finishing up on some office work before the weekend. November Viking page proofs? Check. Publishing contracts? Check. Blog post? Workin' on it. All things I have to get done before I can go home today.
Why's it so important to get it all done today?
Because I'll be busy all next week, basking in the glow of the Norwegian Mecca that is Norsk Høstfest! That's right, come Monday morning I get to shake the overcast city-scape and wing my way to sunny downtown Minot, North Dakota! I'm really excited about going because being at an event with that many people who really into their Norwegian heritage is an awesome thing to see and it really re-charges my batteries. I find it to be very refreshing.
But it's not all fun and games. We put a lot of work into our presence at the event--in fact, we've been prepping for the 2009 event since last November. Rarely is there a time of year when we aren't thinking about Norsk Høstfest. Whether we are planning, executing or holding wrap-up meetings, it's a year-round thing for us. But that, too, makes the event a lot of fun for us because we get to see our plans and efforts come to fruition.
This year is going to be cool because we are going to be blogging from the event, and sending tweets, too, to all of our readers from the event site. If you aren't following us on twitter yet, make sure you start because we will be making a number of announcements there. Also, it's the best place to go to find out about news flashes and announcements of new blog posts.
Ok, I'm off to finish a couple more things before heading out. Come on back this weekend and next week to learn about all the cool things happening at the 2009 Norsk Høstfest! And don't forget--members in attendance can get a 15% discount on the Norwegian Buffet at En To Tre!
Why's it so important to get it all done today?
Because I'll be busy all next week, basking in the glow of the Norwegian Mecca that is Norsk Høstfest! That's right, come Monday morning I get to shake the overcast city-scape and wing my way to sunny downtown Minot, North Dakota! I'm really excited about going because being at an event with that many people who really into their Norwegian heritage is an awesome thing to see and it really re-charges my batteries. I find it to be very refreshing.
But it's not all fun and games. We put a lot of work into our presence at the event--in fact, we've been prepping for the 2009 event since last November. Rarely is there a time of year when we aren't thinking about Norsk Høstfest. Whether we are planning, executing or holding wrap-up meetings, it's a year-round thing for us. But that, too, makes the event a lot of fun for us because we get to see our plans and efforts come to fruition.
This year is going to be cool because we are going to be blogging from the event, and sending tweets, too, to all of our readers from the event site. If you aren't following us on twitter yet, make sure you start because we will be making a number of announcements there. Also, it's the best place to go to find out about news flashes and announcements of new blog posts.
Ok, I'm off to finish a couple more things before heading out. Come on back this weekend and next week to learn about all the cool things happening at the 2009 Norsk Høstfest! And don't forget--members in attendance can get a 15% discount on the Norwegian Buffet at En To Tre!
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Sons of Norway Presents: En To Tre
Yup, you read the title correctly--no need to clean the glasses or do a double-take. Sons of Norway is now the presenting sponsor of En To Tre, the finest dining experience at Norsk Høstfest! This is an awesome new facet to our title sponsorship of Oslo Hall. But what's even better is that Sons of Norway members will get a 15% discount on Authentic Norwegian Buffet meals!
All Sons of Norway members have to do to take advantage of this great deal is go to click here and scroll down to the Sons of Norway logo to get your discounted tickets. It's a great deal and trust me when I say that it's some of the best food you'll find at Norsk Høstfest. Don't get me wrong, I enjoy deep fried food as much as the next guy, but it's a nice change to sit down to a meal of smoked salmon or roast beef with a spiced, aioli remoulade sauce. Sounds good, right?
Just remember that seating is limited, so you'll want to make your reservations ASAP to ensure you get a chance to sample this amazing culinary fare. And if you go, be sure to stop by the Sons of Norway booth in Oslo Hall and say hi!
All Sons of Norway members have to do to take advantage of this great deal is go to click here and scroll down to the Sons of Norway logo to get your discounted tickets. It's a great deal and trust me when I say that it's some of the best food you'll find at Norsk Høstfest. Don't get me wrong, I enjoy deep fried food as much as the next guy, but it's a nice change to sit down to a meal of smoked salmon or roast beef with a spiced, aioli remoulade sauce. Sounds good, right?
Just remember that seating is limited, so you'll want to make your reservations ASAP to ensure you get a chance to sample this amazing culinary fare. And if you go, be sure to stop by the Sons of Norway booth in Oslo Hall and say hi!
Monday, October 6, 2008
Daniel O'Donnell and Sons of Norway
As you know, Sons of Norway was giving out autographed Daniel O'Donnell t-shirts to new members who joined at Hostfest, as well as to those who renewed their membership. Well, now we have some video of Mr. O'Donnell talking about the shirts. Take a look here.
Also, in the background you'll see a number of Sons of Norway staff and members sporting the new t-shirts, which are sure to be a big hit with O'Donnell's fans!
Also, in the background you'll see a number of Sons of Norway staff and members sporting the new t-shirts, which are sure to be a big hit with O'Donnell's fans!
Friday, October 3, 2008
Norsk Høstfest: Day 3
Today was very exciting and very busy. All morning we had current members renewing and new members joining so they could get their hands on the two Norsk Høstfest exclusive gifts we were giving away! People loved the cookbook and the autographed t-shirts. Big thanks to Astrid Karlesn Scott and Daniel O'Donnell for helping us out!
Also, I have some great photos for you to look at from Høstfest.
Bjøro Håland sharing a quiet moment with a fan.
International President, Dan Rude and Fraternal Director, Eivind Heiberg meeting Daniel O'Donnell
International President, Dan Rude being interviewed with Daniel O'Donnell for a T.V. show
Also, I have some great photos for you to look at from Høstfest.
Bjøro Håland sharing a quiet moment with a fan.
International President, Dan Rude and Fraternal Director, Eivind Heiberg meeting Daniel O'Donnell
International President, Dan Rude being interviewed with Daniel O'Donnell for a T.V. showThursday, October 2, 2008
Norsk Høstfest: Day 2 & 2nd Big Announcement
Today was awesome! The booth in Oslo Hall was hopping with activity, we had a number of new members join and A LOT of members renew their membership! Best of all, our International President Dan Rude was on TV!
Today at about noon, there were some TV stations on hand to interview Høstfest entertainer Daniel O'Donnell and Dan was part of the interview! This is where the 2nd big announcement comes in. You see, for two days we will be offering a second recruitment incentive--an autographed Daniel O'Donnell t-shirt, signed by the man himself!
Because of this offer, the TV stations wanted to interview Dan Rude about it, and about Sons of Norway. Dan did a great job and it created quite a buzz around Høstfest!
So, beginning tomorrow, anyone who joins Sons of Norway will receive one of these awesome t-shirts! So come on out and join! This is for two days only and once Høstfest is over, this offer will be, too.
In the meantime I'm trying to get a copy of the TV interview so I can convert it for the blog.
Have a great day everyone!
Today at about noon, there were some TV stations on hand to interview Høstfest entertainer Daniel O'Donnell and Dan was part of the interview! This is where the 2nd big announcement comes in. You see, for two days we will be offering a second recruitment incentive--an autographed Daniel O'Donnell t-shirt, signed by the man himself!
Because of this offer, the TV stations wanted to interview Dan Rude about it, and about Sons of Norway. Dan did a great job and it created quite a buzz around Høstfest!
So, beginning tomorrow, anyone who joins Sons of Norway will receive one of these awesome t-shirts! So come on out and join! This is for two days only and once Høstfest is over, this offer will be, too.
In the meantime I'm trying to get a copy of the TV interview so I can convert it for the blog.
Have a great day everyone!
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
Norsk Høstfest: Day 1
Today was the first day of the festival and the Minot Fairgrounds were hopping with activity. Since this is the largest Scandinavian festival in America, people travel from all over the North America to be a part of the excitement. As I was walking to the festival I passed motorhomes with license plates from all over the U.S. and one thing really struck me-everyone here is so nice! It's about a quarter mile walk from the hotel to the festival and the entire way there I had complete strangers waving, saying hello and wanting to chat when they saw my Sons of Norway polo shirt. It's a great thing to be surrounded by so many people who are all so nice and happy.
The day itself went by very quickly. I met a lot of members from around the world and signed up a few new members as well. Overall, it was a great day for everyone and, in terms of membership retention, the cookbook I mentioned yesterday was very popular! More to come tomorrow!
The day itself went by very quickly. I met a lot of members from around the world and signed up a few new members as well. Overall, it was a great day for everyone and, in terms of membership retention, the cookbook I mentioned yesterday was very popular! More to come tomorrow!
Norsk Høstfest: Big Announcement #1
I've got a big announcement for everyone! This year we have a couple of new recruitment incentives at Norsk Høstfest and I'm about to announce the first!
This year, at Norsk Høstfest, we will be offering a free, autographed copy of "Authentic Norwegian Cooking" by Astrid Karlsen Scott! This hardcover cookbook is amazing and has a lot of great recipes and accompanying photos. We've been working since this past summer, trying to put together a deal and now I can finally announce it!
Anyone who signs up for Sons of Norway membership, or renews their current membership will receive this gorgeous book. Enjoy!
This year, at Norsk Høstfest, we will be offering a free, autographed copy of "Authentic Norwegian Cooking" by Astrid Karlsen Scott! This hardcover cookbook is amazing and has a lot of great recipes and accompanying photos. We've been working since this past summer, trying to put together a deal and now I can finally announce it!
Anyone who signs up for Sons of Norway membership, or renews their current membership will receive this gorgeous book. Enjoy!
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
Norsk Høstfest: More Setup
Well, day 2 was a long one. First we spent much of the day putting the final touches on the Sons of Norway booth in Oslo Hall. The team was assembling displays and tables, unpacking materials to be handed out and making some final preparation for this year's recruitment and retention incentives. There was a lot of activity in getting ready for tomorrow, but I'm sure all the hard work is going to pay off.
Once the booth was completed the team headed back to our hotel to get ready for some exciting events being hosted by Norsk Høstfest. First there was the Governor's reception that was hosted by Chester Reiten, the president of Norsk Høstfest and N.D. Governor John Hoeven. There were probably 100 people in attendance, including celebrities, like country music sensations Bjoro Haland and Charlie Pride, Sons of Norway International President Dan Rude and official representatives from Skien, Norway.
After that, a number of our party went to go see the Beach Boys, and followed it up by attending a reception held by Bache Cognac. It was a great time and a great opportunity to meet others in the Norwegian-American community. On a side note, if you ever have the opportunity to try some Bache Cognac, I highly recommend it.
By the time this last reception was over, we had all had a very full day and it was time to go home and rest up for tomorrow, the first day of Norsk Høstfest. Check back tomorrow to learn how hte first day went!
Once the booth was completed the team headed back to our hotel to get ready for some exciting events being hosted by Norsk Høstfest. First there was the Governor's reception that was hosted by Chester Reiten, the president of Norsk Høstfest and N.D. Governor John Hoeven. There were probably 100 people in attendance, including celebrities, like country music sensations Bjoro Haland and Charlie Pride, Sons of Norway International President Dan Rude and official representatives from Skien, Norway.
After that, a number of our party went to go see the Beach Boys, and followed it up by attending a reception held by Bache Cognac. It was a great time and a great opportunity to meet others in the Norwegian-American community. On a side note, if you ever have the opportunity to try some Bache Cognac, I highly recommend it.
By the time this last reception was over, we had all had a very full day and it was time to go home and rest up for tomorrow, the first day of Norsk Høstfest. Check back tomorrow to learn how hte first day went!
Monday, September 29, 2008
Norsk Høstfest: Setting Up
It's been a long day, but a good one. Sons of Norway staff members arrived in Minot this morning for Norsk Høstfest setup. We spent most of the day over at the North Dakota State Fairgrounds setting up our booth. We suspended some large 8x10 foot Sons of Norway banners from the ceiling of Oslo Hall, as well assembling our tables and laying down carpet. Tomorrow we'll set up the rest of the booth environment in anticipation for the opening of the festival on Wednesday. There should also be some photos ready to post tomorrow night as well, so make sure to come back and check them out.
On a related note, today was Odin Lodge's 100th anniversary celebration over in Rugby, N.D.! Congratulations to lodge president Elaine Nelson and all the lodge members! It's always a special event when a lodge celebrates its centennial, so if you know anyone from that lodge, make sure to congratulate them!
More to come tomorrow from Minot and the Norsk Høstfest festival grounds.
On a related note, today was Odin Lodge's 100th anniversary celebration over in Rugby, N.D.! Congratulations to lodge president Elaine Nelson and all the lodge members! It's always a special event when a lodge celebrates its centennial, so if you know anyone from that lodge, make sure to congratulate them!
More to come tomorrow from Minot and the Norsk Høstfest festival grounds.
Friday, September 26, 2008
Next Week: Norsk Høstfest 2008!
Beginning on Monday, the blog will be running daily updates from Norsk Høstfest in Minot, ND. For those of you who've never been, it's a great time for the whole family. I highly suggest you check it out if you have the chance.
Norsk Høstfest is America's largest Scandinavian festival and for 4 or 5 days in October tens of thousands of people from all over North America flock to Minot to celebrate Scandinavian culture. I've gone 4 or 5 times in the last 10 years and every time has been better than the last. The festival is certainly quite a sight.
For those in attendance, there's going to be more than 200 internationally recognized artisans, craftsmen and chefs as well as some of the best entertainment around. And the best part? It's all under one roof. It makes for quite an experience with all the sights, sounds and smells of Scandinavian culture.
Once again Sons of Norway is going to be a part of that experience. As the major sponsors of Oslo Hall at Norsk Høstfest, we will have a large booth where we will be promoting Norwegian heritage and culture, recruiting new members and sharing in fraternity and fellowship with current members.
For those of you who can't be there this year, have no fear. On Monday morning I'll be heading out to Minot, with a few other Sons of Norway staff members, so there will be a number of blog posts from the festival floor! Make sure to check back throughout the week to read about all the excitement!
Norsk Høstfest is America's largest Scandinavian festival and for 4 or 5 days in October tens of thousands of people from all over North America flock to Minot to celebrate Scandinavian culture. I've gone 4 or 5 times in the last 10 years and every time has been better than the last. The festival is certainly quite a sight.
For those in attendance, there's going to be more than 200 internationally recognized artisans, craftsmen and chefs as well as some of the best entertainment around. And the best part? It's all under one roof. It makes for quite an experience with all the sights, sounds and smells of Scandinavian culture.
Once again Sons of Norway is going to be a part of that experience. As the major sponsors of Oslo Hall at Norsk Høstfest, we will have a large booth where we will be promoting Norwegian heritage and culture, recruiting new members and sharing in fraternity and fellowship with current members.
For those of you who can't be there this year, have no fear. On Monday morning I'll be heading out to Minot, with a few other Sons of Norway staff members, so there will be a number of blog posts from the festival floor! Make sure to check back throughout the week to read about all the excitement!
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