Swedish Festival Coming to Oakland in June

Valkommen (Welcome) to Oakland, the Swedish Capital of Nebraska.

Oakland is a community rich in Swedish heritage, being named after John Oak, a settler who arrived here in 1855 with many other Swedish families. He is also responsible for the migration of five more Swedish families to the area in 1866.

In honor of this heritage, a Swedish Festival is held bi-annualy, with many festivities during a three-day period in June. This year, the festival will be held Friday, June 19th-Sunday June 21st. Oaklander Karl Lundquist is the chairman for the three-day event. He is being assisted by several other members and organizations of the community.

Below is the current list of events as they stand now. There may be additions as the Festival nears.

Friday, June 19th:

Swedish Coronation at the Methodist Church at 7:00 p.m.

Swedish Tractor Pull to be held downtown at 3rd/4th Street at 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, June 20th:

Swede Stampede Fun Run at the park at 8:00 a.m.

Swedish Pancakes at Golden Oaks from 7:00-9:00 a.m.

A Parade at 10:00 a.m. to begin at the north end of Oakland Ave. (Main St.) by Case’s and end at 2nd Street, the corner of Nifty Thrifty and Creative Connections.

A craft show will be held at the Vet’s Building from 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.

An Art Show will be held at the Rosen Room from 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.

There will be music throughout the day, beginning at 11:00 a.m.

A live band will play (The Seen) from 8:30-10:00 a.m. at the stage located between 3rd and 4th Street on Main Street.

There will be various entertainment throughout the day at the Swedish Heritage Center.

Sunday, June 21st:

Worship Service will be held at the Oakland Park at 10:00 a.m. with a Chamber luncheon to follow.

Please stay tuned to Kat Country Hub for further updates as the event nears.