Why Iowans visit Story City to celebrate Scandinavian Heritage

Scandinavian Days festivities in Story City, Iowa.

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Scandinavian Days happen every year in Story City and to celebrate Scandinavian immigrants, culture and traditions. This year, the event is June 2nd and 3rd. Shanon McKinley, Executive Director of the Story City Greater Chamber Connection explains the history of this annual tradition and how it’s evolved through the years. We also talk about Story City’s growing manufacturing sector.

What are Scandinavian Days?

A fun Viking Ship made for Scandinavian Days
A fun Viking Ship made for Scandinavian Days

Established 1965, May 17th on Norwegian Constitution day, the celebration was renamed “Scandinavian Days” in 1967. It was also switched to the first part of June for warmer weather. The event features live music, a beer garden, a live musical, a parade and a lot more.

Scandinavian Days happen on June 2nd and 3rd this year in Story City. To learn more about the full spectrum of activities, go to their official website.

The event features a beer garden, a musical, a parade, fireworks, craft, and activities for kids too. And of course there’s a Kringla and Kumla eating competition.


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Story City Manufacturing Boom

Iowa Podcast Host with Shanon McKinley, Executive Director of the Story City Chamber of Commerce and Scandinavian Days Co-Chair Nicole Engelhardt
Iowa Podcast Host with Shanon McKinley, Executive Director of the Story City Chamber of Commerce and Scandinavian Days Co-Chair Nicole Engelhardt

Due to low-cost land, cheap energy, high speed fiber connectivity, and the proximity to the 80/35 junction, Story City is experiencing a swell in manufacturing. As companies like Apple and Tesla look to increase manufacturing output in the USA, Story City is excited to get a cut of the action.

McKinley mentioned companies like EBY, Dose Manufacturing, and others are leading the way in Story City manufacturing. Story City prides itself on it’s local and welcoming culture, swinging bridge, and welcoming downtown and believes it’s a great place to manufacturer the world’s best new product.