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.

2026 Senior Nordic Dancers. Front L to R: Brooks Dodd, Molly Kuehner, Oscar Grimstad, Liv Anderson, Natalie Holthaus, Jack Turner, Leah Garcia-Prats, Rachel Weis, Gavin Carolan, Josie Knutson, Oak Pashe, Director Anita Weis. 2nd L to R: Director Marcie Dodd, Evan Roe, Addisyn Ivy, Colton Elsbernd, Kennedy Carlson, Claudia Dixon, Aiden Whalen, Simone Downing, Bentley Smith, Director Al Weis. 3rd L to R: Director Ann Grimstad, Cooper Ewing, Grace Tangen, Carlton Nordschow, Grace Huinker, Dawson Irons, Maggie Gavle, Director Amanda Huinker. Not pictured: Charlotte LaBelle and Brody Darling

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.

2026 Junior Nordic Dancers. Front L to R:  Jack Schroeher, Isabella Gipp, Evelyn Albertson, Beckham Wicks, Valentina Munoz Campos, Jackson Tollefsrud. 2nd L to R: Olivia Hunt, Issac Salgado, Ani Anderson, Jace Tollefsrud. 3rd L to R: Charlotte Harman, Ezra Kinson, Kinley Young, Flint Mastny, Ruby Courtney, Keaton Carlson, Andi Marso. 4th L to R: Brogan Barnes, Wrenn Nikkel, Felipe Barranco-Hernandez, Brynn Van Gerpen, Aiden Vang, Georgia Goulson, Harry Gjerde. Back L to R: Marta Vogel, Daxton VanGundy, Virginia Tangen, Louis Weber, Cannyn Ewing, Brendan Torkelson, Tessa Bril, Cash Vercande

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.

2026 Nordic Dancers Orchestra Front L to R: Jayden Lundvedt, Poppy Bellrichard, Emma Cline, Naomi Kutz, Director Chris Hadley. Back L to R: Nina Sessions, Spencer Christensen, Trenton Battle, Lauren Severtson. Not Pictured: Lulu Bellrichard

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!