This weekend marks Stoughton’s annual Syttende Mai Festival, which celebrates the signing of the Norwegian Constitution on May 17th, 1814, and hence Norway’s independence from a 500-year union with Denmark. Stoughton's celebration dates back to 1868, when Norwegian immigration to this part of Wisconsin was at its peak. The weekend festivities include folk dancing performances by the world famous Stoughton Norwegian Dancers, authentic Norse costumes, woodcarving, a smorgasbord of Norwegian foods, a canoe race, Viking encampment, and even an Ugliest Troll Drawing contest! A king and queen, and prince and princess are also chosen to reign over the festivities. And you know they’re not messin’ around when they start naming royalty.
This year, for the first time, I will enjoy the festival as a participant in the 35th Annual Syttende Mai Run, a 20-mile race from Madison to Stoughton. The race starts at 7:30 a.m. on Saturday at the Capitol Square. Word on the street is that there are many hills on the course, and it’s obviously a daunting distance. Nonetheless, I am very excited to run to Stoughton and partake in the traditions of my neighbors there...truly an athletic and cultural experience.
This year, for the first time, I will enjoy the festival as a participant in the 35th Annual Syttende Mai Run, a 20-mile race from Madison to Stoughton. The race starts at 7:30 a.m. on Saturday at the Capitol Square. Word on the street is that there are many hills on the course, and it’s obviously a daunting distance. Nonetheless, I am very excited to run to Stoughton and partake in the traditions of my neighbors there...truly an athletic and cultural experience.
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