Vesterheim’s “Free Thursdays” Offers Crafts and Food

Every Thursday admission is free at Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum and the museum is open until 8:00 p.m. thanks to Decorah Bank & Trust Co. Once a month the museum offers a special event in connection with these “Free Thursdays.”

The event in January will be on Thursday the 21st from 4-7 p.m., when visitors of all ages can try hands-on activities inspired by the exhibition “Sacred Symbols, Ceremonial Cloth.”

Vesterheim volunteers will be in the museum for “A Taste of Vesterheim,” February 11 from 5:00 to 6:30 p.m., to serve free Norwegian heart waffle samples, just in time for Valentine’s Day.

Don’t forget to check out the “Free Thursdays” specials at the museum stores.

Vesterheim uses the story of Norwegian Americans to explore aspects of identity and culture common to everyone. The museum cares for over 24,000 artifacts, among which are some of the most outstanding examples of decorative and folk art to be seen in this country.

Founded in 1877, Vesterheim is the oldest and most comprehensive museum in the United States dedicated to a single immigrant group. This national treasure includes a main complex of 16 historic buildings in downtown Decorah, and an immigrant farmstead and prairie church just outside the city.

From May 1 – Oct. 31, Vesterheim is open daily, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., with hours extended until 8:00 p.m. on Thursdays. From Nov. 1 – April 30, Vesterheim is open Tuesday through Sunday 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., with hours extended until 8:00 p.m. on Thursdays and is closed Monday. For more information on the museum’s exhibits, activities, and membership opportunities, consult Vesterheim’s website at vesterheim.org, call (563) 382-9681, or write to Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum, 523 W. Water St., P.O. Box 379, Decorah, IA, 52101-0379.

Source: Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum