Hyllningsfest

Not many people have heard of Hyllningsfest, but to Swedes, it is a huge holiday! Every other year, there is a weekend in October that everyone goes back to Lindsborg for Hyllningsfest. Usually, the day will start out with a parade. The parade has the typical marching bands, old cars, dignitaries, and such, but what is special about this parade is all Swedish traditions played out, like the Tompte (kind of like the Swedish Santa Clause) comes and walks the parade. All day, the whole park is filled with crafts, demonstrations, games, talks, and all sorts of fun activities. Another fun part of it is that everyone dresses up! Swedish clothes tend to be very colorful and busy. Everyone has a Swedish costume, usually for the girls, it is a long skirt with a colored, patterned apron worn on top with a white blouse and a scarf. 

 One of my favorite memories of Hyllningsfest was getting to dress up in my favorite Swedish costume, and playing around the park with my cousins and friends. I also enjoy getting to see all my family. No matter how far away they live or what is going on, everyone tries to make it back for Hyllningsfest every time- including my extended family! 

Hyllningsfest is taking place this weekend in Lindsborg, and my brother and his wife and kids are coming from Chicago, my other sister from KC and her little guy, and the rest of my family in town are all going. Sadly, since i have a volleyball tournament, i won't make it, but i have enjoyed growing up with the tradition and will always try to make it back in years to come. 

One of the many reasons i love being Swedish and in this family is because family is a huge thing in our lives. No matter what is going on, we always do our best to have a fun family get-together every year.