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Swedish Heritage Center Update

Published 11:30 am Thursday, October 1, 2026

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From left, Midsomar Queen Karen Rosenboom, Heritage Center president Julie Johnson, and Midsomar King Roger Johnson. The Statuette Julie is holding is Victor the Viking. - Photo Courtesy of Marilee Groth

Hej hej (“Hej hej” means “hello” or “hi” in Swedish, and doubling the word adds extra warmth, friendliness, and cheerfulness ) from the Swedish Heritage Center.  We wanted to update you on some upcoming activities at the Center and also review our busy summer.

Of course, our big summer news was the Midsomar Celebration which took place in the Oakland Park on June 7th.  This year we didn’t have the 40 mph wind w/ 90+ degree heat temps, but we did have rain! That put the “damper” on our kids’ activities (face painting, rock painting), and some of our vendor displays. We were able to crown our 2026 Midsomar King and Queen – King Roger Johnson and Queen Karen Rosenboom. We had special music from the Baptist Praise Band and enjoyed traditional Midsomar food provided by the Heritage Center. Maybe the 3rd year is the charm, and we’ll have no heat – no wind – and no rain (at least on Sunday – we certainly can’t pray for “no rain!)

A new fun treasure hunt has begun with a gift given to us by a family who recently lost a loved one. “Victor the Viking” – a plaster-of-Paris statuette, has taken up residence and will be hiding in all areas of the building.  It’s your assignment to try to find out where “Victor” is hiding and report to the kitchen crew that you’ve found “Victor”. 

Plans have been finalized for a Quilt Show on October 4th from 11:00 – 1:00, showcasing the Logan Valley Quilters. Quilts will be displayed upstairs over the pews and you will be encouraged to explore our local quilting ladies talents. We’ll also celebrate Oktoberfest with a roast pork dinner.

November is the traditional Thanksgiving meal, complete with everything Grandma would make for the family table. It is our busiest meal, and also one where we see a lot of take outs because of the farmers working on harvest. Take outs are so encouraged – a nice hot meal for the farmers working hard in the field – and Mom, you get to take the day off cooking —  Just give us a call and we’ll have your meals boxed up and waiting for you.

And finally December – the 2ND SUNDAY OF THE MONTH – when we celebrate Sankta Lucia Festival, and have a large Swedish appetizer smorgasbord, followed by some musical entertainment and the crowning of our Sankta Lucia “Queen Lucy.” Remember to check out our gift shop for your unique gifts for special friends.