LINDSBORG, Kan. — Svensk Hyllningsfest is an event worth coming to. When you come to Lindsborg, it’s not hard to see the many years of heritage and tradition. Swedish settlers arrived in Lindsborg in 1869, and Hyllningsfest showcases the rich Swedish culture. Hyllningsfest is an event that occurs every other year and is definitely worth noting in your calendar.
People come from all over, with a significant portion being locals. There are all sorts of food at Hyllningsfest, including Viking on a stick and Swedish pancakes. There’s also the smorgasbord, a whole buffet of Swedish foods, and the tickets often sell out quickly for that event. Indigo Moo’d had all sorts of ice cream goodies and flavors for this event.
One way to experience the traditions at Hyllningsfest is by watching the Swedish folk dancers of all ages. Families come to support the dancers and watch them perform.
“I’ve got a high schooler that does the Swedish dancing, and I live in Lindsborg,” Renee Riedel, a Lindsborg local attending the festival, said.
When you think of Hyllningsfest, you think of traditions passed down through generations in families and a long-time commitment to the culture, at least for the locals.
“I enjoy watching the kids, and my kids danced all through elementary school and middle school,” Riedel said.
Hyllningsfest attracts a diverse crowd, including newcomers to the festival. They are of all backgrounds and heritages.
“Well, we’ve never been to Lindsborg, so I’ve never been here, and I am Scandinavian, so I felt like I really wanted to go visit this, and it’s going to be awesome.” Tawnya Davis, a first timer to Hyllningsfest, said.
Some people at Hyllningsfest have been coming for a long time, and some are brand new to the festival. Whether you are a seasoned festival goer or new to the scene, it is a family and community affair with something for everyone.
“I have my little neighbor boy, who is a second grader, and he was dancing.” Cheryle Train, who has been coming to Hyllningsfest for a long time, said. She is a seasoned festival goer, and it is her 23rd time coming to Hyllningsfest.
Hyllningsfest really brings people together and is fun for all ages. The festival offers yummy food and a variety of activities for everyone involved. The Swedish dancers are a definite crowd favorite, with almost everyone coming to watch them. To top off the fun activities and the bustle of the festival, Urban Ahlin, the ambassador of Sweden, came to speak at the last time of the smorgasbord. Svensk Hyllningsfest is a place of vibrant traditions and family fun for all.
