Locals and Tourists Take Solvang During Danish Days

Viking Ship

SOLVANG, Calif. — Heil og sæl! (pronounced: hail oh sail), meaning “healthy and happy” in Old Norse, was a common greeting heard throughout Solvang’s annual Danish Days celebration this year. The Viking expression, still used today, reflects the deep roots of Viking culture in Danish history—and those roots were on full display during the three-day festival held Sept. 19–21.

Visitors from around the world gathered in the Danish-inspired town to celebrate its founding and immerse themselves in cultural traditions. Each day featured a full schedule of activities, from fairy tale readings in the town square to Viking reenactments and parades that closed down the main roads.

On Saturday, local artisans and small businesses set up booths to showcase their appreciation for Danish culture and sell handmade crafts. Locals and tourists browsed tables filled with hand-painted nesting dolls, jewelry, watercolor prints, pottery and more.

Watercolor artist Natalie Groves shared the inspiration behind her whimsical artwork: Solvang’s fairytale architecture and the imaginative stories told by her husband and daughter. Her prints included a variety of scenes, from Danish landmarks to playful wildlife. A few featured a haunted house with ghosts escaping through the chimney—perfect for spooky season—foxes on a bicycle ride through the forest, and a frog playing a guitar on a rock. Her work, rich in detail and color, draws inspiration from artists like Jan Brett, Jill Barklem and Beatrix Potter.

For families, there was a kids’ corner with LEGO play stations, while adults enjoyed the beer garden offering Carlsberg and selections from local breweries. Live bands took the stage to entertain the crowd throughout the day.

Every corner of town featured a Danish-themed experience—from food vendors to interactive workshops. One of the most popular attractions was the folk dancing lesson, where Danish dancers led the crowd through traditional steps. For those seeking more adventure, there was even axe-throwing to help attendees unleash their inner Viking.

The Vikings of Bjornstad, a nonprofit group dedicated to preserving Viking history, were also in attendance. Dressed in period gear, they taught visitors about Viking weaponry, crafts and daily life. They shared stories of their outreach efforts, including school visits, summer camps and cultural events designed to keep Viking traditions alive.

Of course, no trip to Solvang is complete without a stop at Mortensen’s Danish Bakery. Guests lined up outside the popular shop to enjoy flaky, buttery Danish pastries. In addition to traditional treats, Mortensen’s also offered chocolate rum balls, pistachio bars and owl-eye cookies—adding a sweet touch to the weekend festivities.

Danish Days offers something for everyone, blending culture, history and fun. If you missed it this year, be sure to plan a visit next fall—Solvang’s most festive weekend is worth the trip.