While Ballard may be losing a bit of its Nordic undertones with Scandinavian shops closing, there is still a rich cultural heritage here and Seattle’s Convention and Visitors Bureau (SCVB) wants visitors and locals to know about it. The SCVB is highlighting the Nordic past with the newly-released Nordic American Heritage guide. According to the guide, “By 1910, Scandinavians were the largest ethnic group in Washington State, comprising over 30 percent of the foreign-born population.” The guide is part of a series which includes the African American Heritage guide, the Native American Heritage guide and the Asian American Heritage guide.
“Travelers continue to be interested in cultural and heritage tourism, traveling to experience the places and activities that authentically represent the stories and people of the past and present,” said Tracey Wickersham, SCVB Director of Cultural Tourism.” The history and culture of our region interests visitors because that is what helps make our place on earth unique and shapes our modern day community. We are delighted to offer this new resource to share Seattle’s Nordic heritage with our visitors and locals.“
The guide features attractions around Seattle such as the Old Norway Hall (now Raisbeck Performance Hall) at 2015 Boren Avenue and here in Ballard such as the Leif Erikson Statue at Shilshole Bay Marina. It also highlights festivals and events like Syttende Mai parade and Viking Days. The guide isn’t just Seattle-focused, it also features Nordic heritage in other parts of Puget Sound.
The Nordic American Heritage guide is available online here.
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