Established as The Skamokawa Eagle in 1891
Established as The Skamokawa Eagle in 1891
The Finnish-American Folk Festival of Naselle will be in full swing on Friday, 10 a.m., and continue through the weekend to Sunday afternoon.
The fesitval includes a variety of events including exhibits of photography, craft, historical kitchen crafts, flowers, art, genealogy as well as outdoor exhibits. It offers a chance to shop for local and Finnish-American gifts, to sample the Finnish foods, and to learn and participate in lectures and workshops. There will also be the Paavo Nurmi Run, and the Parade of the Mummus (Grandmas.)
As for performers, this is a good year with 10 groups and individuals coming from out-of-town to entertain while nine local groups are representing the wonderful local talent that is available and preparing for the festival.
Among the favorites returning are the Katrilli Dancers from Seattle and the Scandinavian Dancers of Astoria; Carl Wirkkala and the Ghost Town Band; the Naselle Finn-Am Choir, Wilho Saari on kantele; and the Barbershop Quartet.
Among those performing from out-of-town are the Livakat/ Evergreen Kanteles, a talented group, Terhi Mikki-Broersma, an accordionist & pianist and singer; the lovely violinists and guitar players of the Sillanpaa family and two soloists born and raised “in the valley," Kelsi Nelson, soprano, as well as Jerry Wirkkala on guitar solo.
Audience participation is encouraged in sing-alongs, reading at open mics, walking in with the Mummus at the opening ceremony, discussions, learning to play kantele, and in many demonstrations throughout the day.
Dancing is encouraged both Friday and Saturday afternoon in the courtyard while Philip and Birgit Ages perform in their friendly and welcoming way as Drew Fertig leads dancers in learning new steps, and also Saturday night while Toby Hanson and the Smilin’ Scandinavians bring forth their smooth and lively tunes.
The anniversary of Peaceful Hill Cemetery will include soloists like Richard Ellis who will participate in what promises to be a moving and meaningful event.
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