Did you know that a large portion of North Dakotans are of Scandinavian descent? Many Swedish, Norwegian, Danish, Icelandic, and Finnish people immigrated to this state in the late 1800s and early 1900s. With them, they brought their history, heritage, and of course those delicious family recipes, many of which have remained in families to this day. Every year, this heritage is celebrated in the largest festival of its kind in all of North America. This Scandinavian festival in North Dakota is a must-see.

Norsk Høstfest in North Dakota is an annual Scandinavian festival that has become the largest in all of North America. Thousands of people turn out to celebrate the "Scandamonium" through food, activities, shopping, and more.

The festival brings together the history, heritage, and fun from these cultures. Tons of vendors, entertainers, and all kinds of activities for people young and old will be here. It usually takes place in late September and is held in Minot, North Dakota.

There's so much shopping here, you could spend the whole day browsing. Handmade items, beautiful artwork, and traditional Scandinavian pieces are presented for sale by many artisans and craftspeople.

You can even learn how to make some of these traditional pieces through the many learning activities. Learn about weaving, carving, and even cooking — a big part of the event.

Food is one of the Norsk Høstfest's most important parts. There is lefse galore as well as a crowd favorite, the spud dog. This hotdog is served in a baked potato instead of a bun with baked potato toppings like sour cream and cheese. Talk about yummy!

There will be plenty of live entertainment, as well. Watch the Viking battles, see traditional Scandinavian dances, and watch skilled hands create amazing works using methods passed down for generations.

Don't forget about the music! Live music from Scandinavian bands as well as many other music genres will be held at the festival.

Even huge concerts will be taking place. There is certainly something for everyone here, and it's a must experience for every North Dakotan, no matter your heritage.

Norsk Høstfest is held every year in the fall in Minot, North Dakota, at the North Dakota State Fair Center on the North Dakota State Fairgrounds. To learn more and to find out when the largest Scandinavian festival in North Dakota is taking place this year, visit the Norsk Høstfest website. There you'll find a full schedule of events, list of vendors and entertainers, applications to sign up for some of the activities, and information about how to plan your trip - including information about camping at the festival grounds.

While you're in Minot celebrating Scandinavia, you should visit the Scandinavian Heritage Park.