ELK HORN and KIMBALLTON, Iowa – Getting into the holiday spirit is easy in the Danish Villages. Celebrated the weekend after Thanksgiving, the 42nd Julefest offers visitors a way to kick start the Christmas season. For forty one years, this magical festival has warmed hearts and provided a way to celebrate all things Danish. Julefest promises an array of traditional Danish food and tasty treats such as pastries, wine, glögg, and pebbernødder. Search for unique Christmas presents and decorations at gift shops and specialty stores, in both towns. Make the most of a winter’s day – tour the newly reconstructed Danish Windmill, enjoy the latest exhibits at the Museum of Danish America.

Danish Windmill w/lights (Photo submitted)

New this year is the Danish Windmill’s Silent Auction at the Elk Horn Fire Hall 1 -6 on Saturday the 28th along with a Vintage Quilt Show sponsored by Log Cabin Quilt Shop. For this year only the Danish Windmill is sponsoring a Frikadeller Meal to Go from 4 to 7 at the Elk Horn Fire Hall. RSVP only 712-764-7472 to reserve your ticket. The Master Grillers out of Kimballton are the caterers.

Relish in the festive atmosphere of the villages – both towns will be decorated for Christmas and the streets lined with Danish and American flags. Pick up a brochure with a map of the local merchants and happenings at any of the Danish Villages businesses. Pancake breakfast, Polar Run, two craft fairs and evening concert have been canceled for 2020.

Safety is a priority this year and we will be following CDC guidelines for events. Schedules will be subject to change. Masks required. Contact the Danish Windmill at (800) 451-7960 or visit www.Danishvillages.com for more information.