A touch of Norway for a unique community event Saturday

Wednesday, February 22, 2023 6:53 pm

Toppling Goliath Brewing Company in Decorah is hosting that experience as part of the first-ever “Koselig: A Day of Cozy Joy” event Saturday, Feb. 25. 

Koselig, simply put, is a way of life – and likely one reason why Norwegians are considered among the happiest people on Earth. 
Pronounced “koosh-lee,” Koselig is a concept deeply-rooted in Norwegian culture that describes a feeling of coziness, warmth, contentment and relaxed interaction. Toppling Goliath Brewing Company in Decorah is hosting that experience as part of the first-ever “Koselig: A Day of Cozy Joy” event Saturday, Feb. 25. Co-sponsored with Vesterheim National Norwegian-American Museum and Folk Art School, this unique take on the Koselig philosophy will showcase folk music, traditional Norwegian fare and an art demonstration, with a sense of community at its core.

The art of ale bowls
Often handed down as family heirlooms, hand-carved ale bowls are a Norwegian tradition used for celebration and in daily life. Rebecca Hanna of Decorah will demonstrate this art from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the taproom. Hanna is passionate about many Norwegian folk arts, especially woodworking. 

Music by Erik Sessions
Decorah’s own Erik Sessions will entertain from 1 to 4 p.m., in the taproom. This well-known artist has been making music for decades. Skilled in Scandinavian fiddle techniques, Sessions brings music in keeping with Koselig tradition, alongside Bluegrass, Celtic, American Old-Time and Balkan tunes. 

The Wildwoods
Hailing from Lincoln, Neb., The Wildwoods will perform from 6-9 p.m. This enchanting Folk/Americana trio has been praised by Paste Magazine as “focused and charmingly human.” The Wildwoods’ delicate melodies and descriptive lyrics come from nature, love, experiences from the road and growing up in Nebraska. 
The folk/Americana trio work to harmoniously and delicately blend their voices to create a sound so nostalgic that you may find yourself dreaming and longing for those sweet memories from your former days.

Norwegian fare
Toppling Goliath taproom will be serving up Koselig “comfort” with special themed menu items from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The taproom is open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 25.

Koselig coupons
Vesterheim in Decorah offers coupons for use during the Koeslig event before Feb. 25. Those attending the event on Feb. 25 will also receive coupons for use at Vesterheim following the Koselig event. For more information, visit  www.tgbrews.com/events/koselig.