Western Iowa’s Danish villages of Elk Horn and Kimballton are kicking off the holiday season today by celebrating Julefest . The three-day event is in its 29th year. Lisa Riggs, at the Danish Windmill in Elk Horn, says it’s a time to sample tasty food, enjoy Danish hospitality and visit historical attractions.
Riggs says there are craft fairs featuring works by over 40 folk artists who are part of the Kimballton Town Hall’s Prairie Christmas boutique and quilt sale. Elk Horn Town Hall is also holding a Main Street Craft Fair that features local crafters. While in each community, visitors can watch for Father Christmas strolling Main Street between one and four P.M. on Friday. She says Saturday’s activities include a Christmas concert in Elk Horn.
Riggs says the concert begins at seven P.M. at the Elk Horn Lutheran Church, featuring talented local residents. Prior to the concert, from 4-7 P.M., visitors can stop by the fire station for the free pancake and sausage supper. Beginning at 11-A.M. Friday and Saturday, a Danish luncheon and bake sale will take place at the Kimballton Lutheran Church. Riggs says the women of the church prepare "fabulous" open-face sandwiches, Danish cookies and more.
Riggs says the Danish Immigrant Museum in Elk Horn will also serve refreshments along with an old fashioned "Julestue." She says that’s a Danish pasttime of family and friends gathering together to learn the art of making paper ornaments to decorate the Christmas tree.
The materials are provided for a small fee. There’ll also be demonstrations on how to prepare Aebelskiver, the round Danish pancake ball. Visitors won’t be able to miss the authentic Danish Wind Mill in Elk Horn. It stands 60-feet tall with 66-foot wide cross beams, the only one like it in the U.S.