Welcome back to monthly posts of Nordic events happening virtually around the country and in person in Southern California. Every summer I take a hiatus from monthly posts and usually return in the fall. September, however, was disrupted by the passing of Norway’s beloved King Harald which affected me more than I expected so I wrote about my thoughts on his passing instead.
Happy Cinnamon Bun Day to those of you reading on October 4. Are you lucky enough to have a Scandinavian bakery near you? Visit Where to Find Scandinavian Bakeries in the US if you’re unsure or curious. Or visit Kristi Bissell at True North Kitchen and follow one of her recipes for authentic cinnamon buns, either the Norwegian skillingsboller or Swedish kanelbullar. You can’t go wrong with either one.
🎥 Nordic Film News 🍿
Some exciting news for fans of Nordic film this month!
🇳🇴 Fjord, a legal thriller family drama written and directed by Cristian Mungiu, is being released October 9 at select theaters. Fjord stars Norwegian Oscar-nominated actress Renate Reinsve (from Sentimental Value and The Worst Person in the World) and is about an immigrant Romanian family living in Norway who is subject to an investigation and faces the scrutiny of the local judicial system.
If you are local to the Los Angeles area, there is a special screening of Fjord on Saturday, October 10, at 5:45 p.m. at AMC Century City which will be followed by an in-person Q&A with the director. Tickets are available through AMC Theaters.
🇸🇪 View The Trip to Piedmont written and directed by Alexandra-Therese Keining on Tuesday, October 20, and Wednesday, October 21, in Newport Beach. Featured in Newport Beach Film Festival’s Swedish Spotlight, it is about four newly retired friends who go together to Italy, where one of them has inherited an olive farm. The idea is initially to sort out the legal aspects and sell the farm. But once there, the question arises; what do they really have in Sweden to return to? View screening details and ticket information here.
🇫🇮 On Sunday, October 25, the Scandinavian American Cultural & Historical Foundation in Thousand Oaks presents a screening of the 2023 Finnish film Fallen Leaves written and directed by Aki Kaurismäki. It is “a timeless, hopeful and ultimately satisfying love story about two lonely souls’ path to happiness – and the numerous hurdles they encounter along the way. Set in contemporary Helsinki, and shot through with Kaurismäki’s typically playful, idiosyncratic style and deadpan humor, this tender romantic tragicomedy is a timely reminder of the potency of movie-going from one of cinema’s living legends.” View screening details.
Online book clubs have selected their fall reads. Check out Online Nordic Book Club Meetings to see what is being read when. Does anything look interesting to you?
💻 Online Events 🎧
Cultural Connections: Contemporary Rosemaling (Sunday, 10/4)
Explore rosemaling as a contemporary art form inspired by the natural world. In this webinar, Tara will share ten original botanical designs based on plants of the boreal ecosystem—including Trout Lily, Rowan Berry, Lady’s Slipper, Blue Flag Iris, Wild Rose, Coral Root, Arrowhead, Pipsissewa, Marsh Marigold, and Maple Leaf—and demonstrate how traditional rosemaling brushstrokes can be reimagined to capture their unique forms and character. Tara will also briefly explore the connection between rosemaling, contemporary botanical art, and the history of plant classification through Carl Linnaeus and his apprentice Anders Dahl, whose name lives on in the dahlia.
ASI Food Programs: Winter Squash in the Nordic Kitchen with Kristi Bissell (Thursday, 10/15)
While winter squash is a newer transplant to the Swedish garden, in recent years it has become an increasingly popular ingredient in both sweet and savory dishes. Join Kristi Bissell as she demonstrates several cozy Nordic-inspired recipes from her blog True North Kitchen, including a pumpkin rye sweet bread and a butternut squash galette. Students are sure to leave with new ideas and skills for putting this seasonal produce to good use!
Nordic Street Food with Patrice Johnson (Saturday, 10/24)
Do you have a favorite Nordic street food? From hot dogs, smørrebrød, and kebab to tjukklefse (thick bread), falafel, and waffles, Nordic street foods are as diverse as the people and landscape. We’ll dabble in some of the most popular street foods from the region and learn the stories behind these fabulous flavors. This class is currently sold out, but you can request to be added to the waitlist.
Scandinavian Flat Plane Figure Carving: Carving a Santa (11/4, 11/11, & 11/18)
Join carver Charles Banks for three Wednesdays in November as he guides you through the creation of your very own flat plane figure. Following the tradition of flat plane figure carving, you will use only a single knife to carve out this character. You will receive an overview of the history and traditions of this style of carving, be introduced to the cuts and techniques of the reductive carving process, and learn finishing techniques – all culminating in your very own carving. Limited sports left. Enrollment deadline: October 21.
December Family Book Adventure: The Christmas Sweater by Jan Brett (Registration deadline 11/10)
Register by November 10 to join Vesterheim for this family-fun reading adventure which begins December 1. Decorah School librarian Shannon Horton will get you reading, thinking, creating, and even up and moving – indoors and out! The registration covers the cost of a kit including a copy of the book, materials you’ll need for the fun hands-on activities, a special treat from Vesterheim, and directions for downloading and using the Goosechase app.
ASI Food Programs: Lingonberries in the Nordic Kitchen with Kristi Bissell (Thursday, 11/12)
You might have tasted it alongside a plate of Swedish meatballs – but have you really dug into the many other uses of the lingonberry? Join Kristi Bissell as she demonstrates a number of Nordic-inspired recipes from her blog True North Kitchen featuring one of the Nordic countries’ most important culinary exports. Kristi will discuss possible sources for different lingonberry products available outside of the Nordic countries as well as ways to put these various products to use, from condiments to beverages to desserts.
Cozy Cabin Cocktails with Emily Vikre (Friday, 11/13)
Emily Vikre of Vikre Distillery will give tips and tricks to help make the perfect cocktail to enjoy your time away at the cabin. Be prepared to concoct delicious cocktails that will make you never want to go back home. Limited spots available at time of publication.
Nordic Morning Bakes with Kristi Bissell (Saturday, 11/14)
Start your day the Scandinavian way with a collection of cozy breakfast bakes. In this cook-along class, Kristi will prepare three Nordic-inspired recipes that showcase the warm flavors and wholesome ingredients of the North: Cardamom Banana Bread, Swedish Apple Muffins, and Lingonberry Baked Oatmeal. This class is currently sold out, but you can request to be added to the waitlist.
Norwegian Milk Cakes with Stewed Apples, Puffed Barley, and Cream with Nevada Berg (Saturday, 11/21)
Join celebrated cook and author Nevada Berg in making traditional milk cakes, mjølekaker. These delicate, paper-thin cakes have been a baking staple for centuries, cherished as both an everyday treat and a celebratory indulgence. In this class, we’ll pair them with vanilla bean eplegrøt (stewed apples) and puffed barley – two new recipes from her upcoming cookbook, set for release in early 2027. Come ready to learn, eat, and have fun! This class is currently sold out, but you can request to be added to the waitlist – or add her upcoming cookbook, My Norwegian Table: Where Meals Become Stories, to your wishlist.
Cultural Connections: Decorative Wall Paintings of Sweden (Sunday, 11/22)
Curious if Swedish Dalmålning, Bonadsmålning, and Norwegian Rosemaling are art cousins? You’re in luck! Join vibrant folk artist Pieper Fleck Bloomquist on a journey into the enchanting world of Swedish Wall Painting. Step back to the 18th and 19th centuries, when lively wall hangings brightened Swedish farmhouses, capturing the playful spirit of their creators. With a treasure trove of photos from her Swedish adventures, Pieper unveils the secrets of historical painters—captivating designs, stories, and the materials that brought these masterpieces to life. Spots available at time of publication.
ASI Nordic Table Demo: Glögg Party with Kristi Bissell (Thursday, 12/10)
Celebrate the season Swedish style with a glöggmingle or Mulled Wine Party! Kristi Bissell of True North Kitchen will share some of her favorite seasonal recipes, including her take on Swedish mulled wine or glögg, a trio of mini open-faced sandwiches, and a Pear Cardamom Cake. Whether you are inspired to host a feast or incorporate these recipes into other seasonal meals, you’ll be set with great options for savory and sweet nibbles throughout the holidays.
How to Host a Gløgg Party with Kristi Bissell (Saturday, 12/12)
Celebrate the season Scandinavian-style with a festive collection of recipes perfect for holiday entertaining. In this online cook-along class, Kristi will prepare two traditional Nordic holiday beverages, a classic Red Gløgg and a festive White Gløgg, along with elegant Blue Cheese and Pear Smørrebrød Appetizers and crisp Pepparkakor Cut-out Cookies. This class is currently sold out, but you can request to be added to the waitlist.
Rye Three Ways (Or Maybe Four!) with Patrice Johnson (Saturday, 12/19)
Got jul? Our Rye Three Ways (Maybe More!) class will get your ready to celebrate the holidays – Rye Style. We’ll cover all of the bases and basics for a rye themed jul party with appetizers, main courses, dessert, and of course specialty cocktails and mocktails. Spots available at time of publication.
Which events or experiences look interesting to you?
Whether you’re planning a trip to the stunning fjords, the vibrant cityscapes of Oslo, or the charming coastal towns, learning Norwegian will enhance your experience and help you connect with the locals in a more meaningful way. Join Dr. Maren Anderson Johnson and learn Norwegian words and phrases. A kit of materials including a workbook that supports the video instruction and a sweet treat from Vesterheim is included in the cost of registration. On-demand class content is available for 90 days from the time of purchase.
Ever wonder why sølje pins have those shiny dangles with silver disc drops? These discs are called “spoons” or “shells” in Norwegian. Silver has long been a protective element against evil and abduction by the hulder folk in Scandinavia. Legend has it that if you run into the devil wearing your sparkling sølje, he would see his own reflection and run away! Don’t run away from a chance to create your own silver- and gold-washed earrings in this short class designed to introduce you to the beauty of Scandinavian silverwork. A kit including the materials you need to create two pairs of earrings in a variety of combinations, and you’ll receive information about how to access the online course materials (content is available for 90 days from the time of purchase). The level of instruction is beginner friendly.
Set off on your Swedish adventure with this fun class taught by Jean Hanslin—expect lots of interaction and smiles! Over three weeks, the class will focus on letters, numbers, and greetings in dialogues, songs, and poems. This class is suitable for new beginners to Swedish (Beginning I level) of all ages, from 10 to 100. For more advanced classes with Jean Hanslin, see her upcoming classes 
Traveling to Sweden soon or just thinking about it? Want to know the essential phrases to use with your friends and relatives? Have some questions about what to see and where to go once you get there? This language and travel course, taught by Gregg White, will get the traveler to Sweden off to the right start. If you are not ready to commit to a full language course but want a brief introduction to Swedish and the lovely country where it is spoken, then this course is for you.
This course, taught by Gregg White, introduces the history of Sweden. In six weeks, this class will cover the geography (the country), the history (the nation), and the political system (the state) of Sweden. The class will learn how these three important factors shaped what we know as “Swedishness”, from the melting of the ice-age glaciers to the development of the “third way” of social democracy. Materials provided by the instructor; students will be given links to handouts they can print before each class. Advanced registration required.
Join San Francisco-based chef and author Nichole Accettola for an introduction to her newest cookbook, 
If there was ever a fruit that defined summer in the Nordic kitchen, it would be the strawberry. In honor of this spectacular fruit’s seasonal arrival, join Kristi Bissell as she demonstrates a trio of Nordic-inspired recipes from her blog 
Have you heard the myth that Finnish is an impossibly difficult language? Curious to find out more about its structure and vocabulary? During this three-session course taught by Daniel Haataja, we’ll look at Finnish from a linguistic perspective and discuss what makes it different, but not necessarily difficult. We’ll also explore how the language has changed over time and continues to evolve today. No knowledge of Finnish is required, but you may leave the course with a strong desire to start learning the language.
The Sámi are an Indigenous people of the Arctic Circle who reside across four political borders of Norway, Sweden, Finland, and the Kola Peninsula of Russia. The semi-autonomous nation of the Sámi people is called Sápmi. The readings discussed in this 3-part lecture/discussion series led by instructor Dr. Áila O’Loughlin introduce participants to topics in Sámi philosophy as they engage with Sámi metaphysics/worldview and questions in practical environmental ethics, such as moral obligation to so-called ‘natural objects’ such as water and rocks, natural resource stewardship, the green transition, language, and identity.
What do mashed potatoes, shrimp salad, and curry remoulade sauce have in common? All are common hot dog toppings across Scandinavia! Whether for a quick weeknight supper or a fun summer entertaining spread, Scandinavia provides plenty of fun twists on the average hot dog. Join Kristi Bissell from the blog 
Across North America, many Norwegian-American families are rediscovering forgotten or hidden elements of their ancestral past. Among these histories are connections to the Sámi. Yet for generations, Sámi identity was often silenced or obscured due to assimilation policies, social stigma, and pressures to conform to dominant national identities. This webinar explores the historical roots of that silence and the contemporary journeys of rediscovery now taking place among descendants in the diaspora.
Hardangersøm is Norwegian drawn thread work. In this online class, you will learn basic Hardangersøm stitches as you make an ornament. Instructor Shan Rayray will take you step-by-step through each of the stitches. The class will consist of three sessions over three weeks. Each session will be accompanied by a video tutorial that you can refer to between class sessions as you complete each step.
Are you curious about the Icelandic language? Are you looking for a quick and low-pressure way to get excited and prepare for an upcoming visit to Iceland? This two-hour introductory workshop, taught by Daniel Haataja, is the perfect way to get a feel for Icelandic, pick up some grammar, and learn how to pronounce some words for basic conversation.
Join Vesterheim for an afternoon of meringues with a battle between the Norwegian kvæfjordkake and the Swedish pinocchio. Instructor Patrice Johnson will show you how to make both meringues and it will be up to you which one will come out victorious, even though the ones who get to eat the meringues will be the real winners.
Join Vesterheim instructor Laura Berlage in September for a family journey into the wonderful world of needle felting. Laura will guide you through the tips and tricks needed to walk away with your very own little fox. This program has been designed for families to experience on their own schedules. There is no live Zoom event and no scheduled class time – your family can participate anytime during the month when it works for your schedule! On the first of the month, you will receive an email with the links and information about how to access.
Anders Zorn, a world-famous artist from Dalarna, left us iconic paintings that immortalize the beauty of Swedish landscapes and traditions. Did you know he also noticed that folk music was losing popularity at the turn of the last century? He therefore took action, creating the Zorn Badge to reinvigorate Swedish folk music by recognizing and awarding accomplished folk musicians. In this lecture by instructor Ingela Haaland, participants will learn more about Anders Zorn, the artist, the person, and the innovative thinker, and explore his artistic work, his home province of Dalarna, and his impact upon the folk music traditions of Sweden that flourish to this day.
If you have already tackled one of the Introduction to Basic Strokes of Rosemaling classes or have similar experience, Vesterheim welcomes you back with fun sessions to continue your journey and learn basic stroke work with a new pattern and project! Develop your technique further and meet new friends. The class will include demonstrations and plenty of hands-on practice. The class will be taught using acrylic paint. Enrollment deadline July 30.
Norwegians in Southern California can celebrate in person on Sunday, May 17, at the Norwegian Church’s 
Ever wonder why sølje pins have those shiny dangles with silver disc drops? These discs are called “spoons” or “shells” in Norwegian. Silver has long been a protective element against evil and abduction by the hulder folk in Scandinavia. Legend has it that if you run into the devil wearing your sparkling sølje, he would see his own reflection and run away! Don’t run away from a chance to create your own silver- and gold-washed earrings in this short class designed to introduce you to the beauty of Scandinavian silverwork. You’ll receive a kit with the materials you need to create two pairs of earrings in a variety of combinations and instructions on how to access the online course materials. Content is available for 90 days from the time of purchase. Level of instruction is beginner friendly.
Whether you call it pulla, kardemummabröd, or coffee bread, a classic Nordic bread combines floral cardamom, a crunchy sugar topping, and a beautiful braided presentation into a show-stopping yeasted loaf. Finland and Sweden’s answer to a challa, Cardamom Bread is commonly enjoyed as part of a fika or coffee hour, but is equally at home on the breakfast table—it makes especially stellar french toast! Since it’s hard to find in bakeries, your best bet is to tackle it at home, and luckily Kristi Bissell of the blog 
Beginning June 1 and available all month, your family can participate anytime during the month when it works for your schedule! On the first of the month, you will receive an email with the links and information about how to access. The $35-per-family price covers the cost of a kit including a copy of the book, materials you’ll need for the fun hands-on activities, a fun craft, a scavenger-hunt-type adventure, and a special treat from Vesterheim.
Kristian Bugge and WB Reid’s live performance at Vesterheim will be livestreamed on Zoom for an online audience. The program will focus on tunes from the rich, Danish fiddle repertoire, spiced up with a few songs in Danish and English. Expect everything from wild polkas and groovy jigs to lyrical waltzes, fiery reels, and happy hopsas. Plus, they will play the exotic “Sønderhoning” dance tunes from the famous, Danish Island of Fanø.
This second book tells the story of a Jewish couple from Oslo who were killed by the border guides whom they thought would lead them to safety in Sweden. At the same time, the reader learns about the author’s wife’s grandmother whose family did safely make it to Sweden but whose home and belongings were taken from them by the Nazis in Norway. Additionally, during the author’s research and writing process, he discovered unknown information about his own family’s involvement during this period as well. It was a dark and difficult period during Norway’s past. I am in awe of how the author was able to tell these painful stories in such an engaging and engrossing way. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️