Summer solstice marks a time of magic and tradition in Nordic countries, where Midsummer festivities bring communities together in vibrant celebration. From dancing around maypoles to indulging in traditional foods, the customs of this enchanting holiday offer a glimpse into a world of folklore and joy. Join us as we explore five surprising Midsummer traditions that are sure to captivate your imagination and inspire your inner wanderlust. From floral crowns to all-night festivities under the never-setting sun, prepare to be immersed in the mystical world of Swedish Midsummer magic.

Celebrating Norway's Constitution Day with Pride and Heritage - On May 17th, Norwegians around the world come together to celebrate Syttende Mai, a day full of history and brimming with national pride. This day marks Norway's Constitution Day, a vibrant celebration that honors the nation's journey to independence and the resilience of its people.

Our family stories and traditions are treasures, passed down through time, linking generations together. But if we don’t share them, they can fade away. Keeping traditions alive is one of the most meaningful ways to connect with both the past and the future.

Heritage is more than history—it’s a living, breathing connection between people. When we share our traditions, we invite others into our stories and create deeper bonds with family, friends, and even new acquaintances.

One of the most beautiful ways to bring more joy into your home is by embracing your heritage and surrounding yourself with meaningful traditions. Whether you grew up with Norwegian customs or are just discovering them, infusing your home with cultural traditions can create a lasting sense of belonging and comfort.

If you’re not familiar with Wendy Jensen’s Anna and the Scandinavian Hearts series, it is a trio of children’s books written to help families connect with their heritage. The main character, Anna, is a young girl growing up in a neighborhood reminiscent of Jensen’s hometown Seattle neighborhood, Ballard.

This summer, there is a new book that I am sure all Norwegian-American children and their families will want to explore, Anna and the Woven Hearts by Wendy Jensen. We all met Anna last year in the book Anna and the Scandinavian Hearts, the first book in the series, and the new book is the latest installment in her adventure.

For many of us, there is a specific moment in our lives where we find connection to our family’s heritage. The kitchen is a familiar place to learn about traditions, or around the holiday table. But what if you don’t cook and when these once-a-year celebrations arrive you’ve got other things on your mind?

The first rule of a business idea is to find something you’re passionate about. Wendy Jensen of Ballard, Wash., literally and figuratively, poured her heart into her venture. Scandinavian Hearts was born, creating decorative hearts of different materials.

Syttende Mai, also known as Norwegian Constitution Day, is a vibrant and joyous celebration that holds deep cultural significance for Norwegians around the world. It commemorates the signing of Norway's Constitution on May 17th, 1814, marking a pivotal moment in the nation's history.