Abrahamson and other Swedish-Americans were instrumental in starting a Vasa Hambo contest at the Scandinavian Festival and providing colorful flag displays along with the singing of Scandinavian national anthems for the opening ceremonies. The festival is co-sponsored by the Scandinavian American Cultural and Historical Foundation which maintains the Scandinavian Cultural Center in the university's Pearson Library. Numerous other Scandinavian, and now Baltic organizations, make the festival a bigger and better event each year. Jim Gulbranson, a participant since the beginning, said the event was destined to be a success. Like other members of the committee, Gulbranson sees the event as an opportunity to teach people about the Scandinavian culture and more recently about the Baltic cultures.
Visitors come from all over the United States.
Food booths have expanded to offer everything from pickled herring and polse to lefse, krumkake and freshly made rosettes. A 16th century Swedish Royal Court roams along with musicians and folk dancers throughout Kingsmen Park, the main site of the festival today. Craft booths, food and art demonstrations fill the Scandinavian Marketplace and theatrical performances, lectures and concerts round out the entertainment.