During the Stoughton Norwegian Dancers’ February Norse Afternoon of Fun, the new king and queen are announced and join previous years’ honorees.Īlthough their reign is symbolic, the annual Syttende Mai King and Queen dress in traditional Norwegian clothing, or bunad, for the entire festival. Each year, a couple learns of their nomination in September and must keep it a secret from everyone, even friends and family, for five months. Those who wear the Syttende Mai crown receive the honor for their commitment to community service and keeping the local Norwegian culture alive. Stoughton’s Syttende Mai royalty kick off the three-day event and declare the weekend a statewide celebration. Mark your calendars for May 13 - 15, 2022 and plan to celebrate with us! Come back often to see our variety of programming.Ĭome join us for the crowning of Syttende Mai's event ambassadors in a tradition that spans five decades. These immigrants celebrated Syttende Mai unofficially, but it became an annual, city-wide tradition in the 1950s. 2020 would’ve marked the 67th consecutive year the festival has been organized by the Stoughton Chamber of Commerce. From the late 1800s to the early 1900s, Stoughton enjoyed an influx of Norwegians, and at one time, as many as 75 percent of its residents spoke Norwegian. The city-wide festival takes place every year on the weekend closest to Norway’s May 17th Constitution Day, also known as Syttende Mai. Come join us for three days of parades, amazing food and drink, arts and music, athletic competitions, and kids’ activities steeped in centuries of Norwegian culture. Stoughton's Syttende Mai festival is a weekend-long celebration of Norwegian heritage featuring fun activities and cultural experiences for the whole family. Celebrate Norwegian Heritage at the Syttende Mai Festival!