Gustav and Gunnar, Peterson’s twin giant gnomes, invite you to join us in celebrating history, community spirit, and finding fun in simple things. Gammel Dag (meaning “good ol days”) is our way of sharing our Scandinavian heritage with its folk arts, music, dance, fashion, and tasty foods.
Gammel Dag is not your standard craft fair. Several of our talented artists will not only be demonstrating their skill but will offer you a hands-on experience to try their particular form of art. Most Midwesterners have heard of rosemaling, hardanger, and wood carving, but are you familiar with hedebo? Or psaligraphi? Sami-inspired jewelry? At Gammel Dag you won’t just see the finished product, you can watch the process or maybe even try your hand at something new.
Gammel Dag is packed with a variety of food and activities that all ages can enjoy. We already mentioned the folk art demonstrations. The bandstand entertainment alone could occupy you all day. Maybe you have children that want to be active so have them ride the kiddie train, help them with the scavenger hunt, paint a t-shirt, or make a flower crown. Grown-ups might enjoy the vintage “base ball” game, our gnome boutique, or a visit to the wisdom booth and hear some gnomisms. Everyone will enjoy our old-time parade!