Breaking News
Local News

Large crowd, perfect weather for Leif Erikson Festival in Norway

By TERRI CASTELAZ, Staff Writer 3 min read

NORWAY -- Beautiful fall weather helped bring a record crowd of more than 1,000 people to Norway's 34th-annual Leif Erikson Festival on Saturday, filling downtown with a daylong celebration of Norwegian heritage and activities for all ages.

"It was the most people I've seen, and I've heard the same from many others," said Kenzie Williamsen, Norway Downtown Development Authority coordinator. "The day was perfect."

Among the highlights was recognition of state Sen. Ed McBroom and his wife, Sarah, of Waucedah Township, as the 2026 Friends of Norway. McBroom, who has served as the city's band director for several years, and his wife were also presented with the 2026 Key to the City.

Norway High School seniors Jessa Rossler and Eli Dube were selected as the 2026 Miss Norway and Norse King, respectively.

The royal court program, organized by the Norway Area Preservation Society, drew nine participants, nearly reaching the committee's maximum of 10 students.

The festival offered activities throughout downtown, including Leif's Run, an art and artisan market, food vendors, a noon parade and the return of the Viking funeral.

More than 140 runners participated in Leif's Run, including Norway physical education students, members of the Niagara Running Club and other runners from near and far.

"One person I caught was here for a birthday from Maryland and ran in the 5K," Williamsen said.

Williamsen the reenactment of the Viking funeral drew more than 150 spectators.

Williamsen credited the festival's success to the many volunteers who helped organize and carry out the day's activities.

She recognized event creator Barb Thorne for her years of organizing the festival. Tori Normand has overseen Leif's Run for the past four years, while Faith Willis coordinated the food vendors and Monica McElroy Denissen organized the art and artisan market. Connie Johnson led the Norse King and Queen program.

Carol Sundstrom and her husband, Martin Straka, handled the Viking funeral, from setup to cleanup, and provided gifts for the royal court. Steve and Deb Tinti helped organize the Viking Bucks program, and Sara Robinson served as emcee.

Seth Anderson of Mountain Media photographed the runners and captured activities throughout the day.

Norway city staff also helped prepare for the event, coordinating street closures and providing tables, power, garbage service and other necessities.

"This event took a village, but it was a very successful day. Attendees had a wonderful time," Williamsen said.

With this year's strong turnout, organizers are already looking ahead to next year's festival.

"I have high hopes of a super-successful year for 2027," Williamsen said. "We have some ideas in the works to bring additional fun to the event."

———

Terri Castelaz can be reached at 906-774-2772, ext. 85241, or tcastelaz@ironmountaindailynews.com.

Starting at /week.