Nordic Dancers

At the heart of Nordic Fest are the beloved Nordic Dancers, a tradition that began with the very first Fest and continues to captivate audiences today.

2025 Senior Nordic Dancers. Back L to R: Dawson Irons, Margaret Gavle, Cooper Ewing, Grace Tangen, Grace Huinker, Evan Roe, Addisyn Ivy, Aiden Whalen. 2nd L to R: Marcie Dodd, Carlton Nordschow, Kennedy Carlson, Gavin Carolan, Molly Kuehner, Simone Downing, Bentley Smith, Josie Knutson, Brooks Dodd, Amanda Huinker. 3rd L to R: Ann Grimstad, Colton Elsbernd, Rachel Weis, Jack Turner, Leah Garcia-Prats, Oscar Grimstad, Natalie Holthaus, Oak Pashe, Anita Weis, Al Weis. Not pictured: Liv Anderson, Claudia Dixon, Charlotte LaBelle.

The Nordic Dancers of Decorah

Since its founding in 1967, Nordic Fest has been a vibrant celebration of Scandinavian heritage—and at the heart of it all are the beloved Nordic Dancers, a tradition that began with the very first Fest and continues to captivate audiences today.

It all started when Phyllis Leseth, a member of the original Nordic Fest Steering Committee, invited Luther College student and Norwegian native Sebjorn Rogne to teach traditional folk dances to a group of local seventh graders. Under his guidance, the students learned the graceful steps of three Norwegian dances, igniting a spark that would grow into a cherished community tradition.

2025 Junior Nordic Dancers. Back L to R: Gewn VanGerpen, Carrie Weber, Jenna Gjerde. 2nd L to R: Daxton VanGundy, Virginia Tangen, Louis Weber, Georgia Goulson, Wrenn Nikkel, Brendan Torkelson, Tessa Bril, Cashton Vercande. 3rd L to R: Felipe Barranco-Hernandez, Cannyn Ewing, Aiden Vang, Brynn VanGerpen, Kinley Young, Brogan Barnes, Charlotte Harman, Harry Gjerde. 4th L to R: Kasey Nikkel, Beckam Wicks, Andie Marso, Flint Mastny, Ruby Courtney, Evelyn Albertson, Keaton Carlson, Olivia Hunt, Isaac Salgado, Ryan Torkelson. 5th L to R: Jack Schroeher, Austyn Souza, Jace Tollefsrud, Ani Anderson, Isabella Gipp, Jackson Tollefsrud, Valetina Munoz Campos, Erza Kinson. Austyn Souza is no longer a dancer and Marta Vogel took her place.

After Rogne returned to Norway, local teacher Betty Hacker stepped in to guide the group, teaching two additional dances in time for their debut at the inaugural Nordic Fest that July. Her passion and leadership inspired generations of dancers, and the program grew steadily under her care and through the contributions of other directors over the years.

Today, the Nordic Dancers are proud cultural ambassadors for Decorah. These young performers have showcased their heritage through traditional Norwegian folk dances at festivals and events across the United States—and even internationally. Their participation is supported through honorariums, Nordic Fest booth proceeds, and community-led fundraising for special tours abroad.

2025 Nordic Dancers Orchestra Back L to R: Chris Hadley, Gabriel Hiner, Spencer Christensen, Lulu Bellrichard. Front L to R: Jayden Lundtvedt, Nina Sessions, Poppy Bellrichard, Lauren Severtson, Naomi Kutz. Not pictured: Trenton Battle, Emma Cline. *Gabriel Hiner graduated last year and is no longer part of the orchestra.

The Nordic Dancers are divided into two groups: the Junior Dancers and the Senior Dancers. Every five years, a new cycle begins—third-grade students audition for a coveted spot in the Junior Group, beginning a 10-year journey through twelfth grade. It's more than just dance—it's a commitment to culture, camaraderie, and community pride. And alongside them, the Nordic Dancers Orchestra accompanies the dancers, playing the traditional music for performances.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a long-time Fest-goer, watching the Nordic Dancers perform is a must-see experience. Come celebrate Decorah’s rich Scandinavian roots—and witness the joyful rhythm of tradition come to life!