Stoughton Norwegian Dancers to “Shake Off the Winter Blues” at Annual Norse Afternoon of Fun
STOUGHTON, WI — As winter settles over Wisconsin, the world-renowned Stoughton Norwegian Dancers are preparing to bring a burst of color, music, and high-energy tradition to the community. The group will host its annual “Norse Afternoon of Fun” on Sunday, February 1, 2026, at 1:30 p.m. in the Stoughton High School Gymnasium.
More than just a performance, the Norse Afternoon of Fun is a local tradition designed to cure “cabin fever.” The event showcases a vibrant display of authentic bunads (hand-crafted, traditional Norwegian folk costumes), rousing folk music, and the exuberant athleticism that has made the ensemble famous worldwide. “The combination of music, rhythm, and tradition creates an energy that is hard to find anywhere else,” says Wendy Furseth, director. “It’s the perfect way for our community to come together during the long winter months, celebrate our heritage, and get excited for Syttende Mai.”
Attendees can expect a family-friendly program that bridges generations, featuring:
Gravity-Defying Tradition: A mix of humorous, acrobatic, and traditional folk dances performed by 25 elite Stoughton High School students.
The Next Generation: A special guest appearance by 20 Stoughton elementary students, who will join the high schoolers for select dances..
Interactive Fun: Opportunities for audience participation that appeal to guests of all ages.
In addition to dancing, there will be a bake sale featuring authentic Norwegian pastries and baked goods, including Lefse, which the Stoughton Norwegian Dancer parent group prepares. There will also be a raffle drawing that includes the following fantastic prizes plus many more:
1st Prize: $1,000 Cash – (donated by Hamacher Lawn Care, Evolve Insurance, SK Marketing LLC, Appliance Repair Experts)
2nd Prize: 4 Baskets and 4 Pints of Custard a Month for 1 year – Culver’s of Stoughton
3rd Prize: $500 Gift Card to Conant Automotive – Conant Automotive
4th Prize: Golf for 4 – Stoughton Country Club
5th Prize: Weber Tailgate Grill – Stoughton Lumber
Multiple Cash prizes of $100, $200 & $250
All proceeds support the Stoughton High School Norwegian Dancers. .
Event Details
Date: Sunday, February 1, 2026
Time: 1:30 p.m. (Doors open at 12:30 p.m.)
Location: Stoughton High School Gymnasium, 600 Lincoln Avenue, Stoughton, WI
Admission: Admission is $5 for adults if tickets are purchased in advance or $10 at the door. Admission is $1 for all children age 12 and under. Tickets can be purchased in advance through current Norwegian dancer families, the Nordic Nook in downtown Stoughton, or by emailing stoughtonnorwegiandancers@gmail.com.
About the Stoughton Norwegian Dancers:
Founded in 1953, the Stoughton Norwegian Dancers serve as goodwill ambassadors for their community, performing across the United States and Norway. The group is dedicated to preserving Norwegian heritage through authentic folk dance, music, and attire. For more information about the Norse Afternoon of Fun or the Stoughton Norwegian Dancers, please visit https://stoughtonnorwegiandancers.com.