Norwegian-American College Christmas

Photo: Nick Greseth / Luther College Photo Bureau
Luther College in Decorah, Iowa, was founded by Norwegian immigrants in 1861. The college offers one of the nation’s largest and most respected music programs, with more than 40% of the student body participating in one of over a dozen ensembles. Christmas at Luther annually features over 700 musicians.

Almost without exception, all of the Norwegian Lutheran colleges produce a special Christmas concert each year, often featuring numerous ensembles, both vocal and instrumental, and drawing alumni and friends from far and wide. Most are regularly featured on regional broadcasting services. This year, those strong traditions had to be adapted to ensure safe listening—and performing—during the COVID-19 pandemic. We’ve compiled links to the concerts of six of the major performances that you can enjoy virtually this year to add to your Christmas spirit.

Luther College in Decorah, Iowa: Christmas at Luther
St. Olaf College in Northfield, Minn.: St. Olaf Christmas Festival
Concordia College in Morehead, Minn.: Concordia Christmas Concert
Pacific Lutheran University in Tacoma, Wash.: A PLU Christmas
Augustana University in Sioux Falls, S.D.: Augustana Christmas Vespers
Augsburg University in Minneapolis: Advent Vespers

Films of Norway_bunad