About
Occurring in October of odd numbered years, the residents of Lindsborg host a community-wide festival and don traditional Swedish folk costumes to celebrate the Swedish pioneers who settled the Smoky Valley in 1868 – 1869. The festival features art and crafts, special foods, ethnic music, and other special entertainment while Swedish folk dancers and musicians add to the flavor of the festival.
Newcomers have as much fun "becoming Swedish" as do the long time residents. This community closeness may be the highest tribute we can pay to the immigrants who also exemplified this kind of unity – a fitting legacy for future residents of the Smoky Valley.
Folk dancing and folk music lend a unique character and spirit to Svensk Hyllningsfest. The Dancers – from eager young grade school students who have been practicing for months, to the Lindsborg Swedish Folk Dancers (high school age students) and the Lindsborg Folkdanslag (their adult counterparts) – are charming and enthusiastic performers. The festival also features live demonstrations of cooking, arts, crafts, and folk costumes among others. The parade, featuring area marching bands, floats, antique cars, and other parade entries, is a key attraction.
The Svensk Hyllningsfest Committee is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization pledged to continue to preserve and provide educational opportunities associated with the Swedish-American heritage within the Smoky Valley of Central Kansas.
