Spending the Day at Julefest in "Little Norway" Poulsbo, Washington

Washington State’s Little Norway

Located on the Kitsap Peninsula, Poulsbo Washington is a quaint and delightful town affectionately nicknamed “Little Norway.” By car it’s about a 2 hour drive from Seattle, which makes a great day trip if you’re looking to get out of the big city.

Julefest in Historic Downtown Poulsbo

We had been to Poulsbo before on a previous trip to Washington State but never in the winter. After researching a few things to do in the surrounding Seattle area we settled on attending Julefest, a fun Nordic tradition put on by The Sons of Norway, Poulsbo, WA. Michelle has Nordic and Scandinavian heritage so this seemed like a great way to celebrate Christmas!

Nordic Market, Shops and Food

Julefest is a full day of fun in historic downtown Poulsbo with a Nordic Market featuring handmade crafts and jewelry. You can also try herring, pea soup and other Scandinavian treats at a Taste of Norway from 10AM-4PM.

Stroll up and down Front Street and explore all of the cute boutique shops filled with antiques, furniture, and gifts. Multiple restaurants line the street from coffee shops to European inspired fare and cozy pubs.

A must stop on your trip to Poulsbo, WA is Sluys Poulsbo Bakery. A famous family run shop filled with wonderful pastries and cookies. We picked up almond croissants and some sugar cookies for breakfast the next day.

Poulsbo’s Maritime History

If you’re a fan of maritime history make your way to the FREE Poulsbo Maritime Museum, Visitor Center and Gift Store. We popped in there on a whim and are so glad we did. Even though the museum is small there’s still a lot to see and read about the history of Poulsbo, Washington. Including how Poulsbo got its unusual spelling.

Lucia Bride and a Viking Bonfire

The day in historic downtown Poulsbo ends at Waterfront Park with the arrival of Lucia Bride making her way to shore by boat. Be sure to get down there early before 5PM for a good view. The procession of Lucia Bride culminates with a huge Viking bonfire, followed by a reading of the Winter Solstice Proclamation.

Poulsbo, Washington is definitely worth a visit, especially for Julefest. It’s not everyday you get to see a big bonfire and Vikings carrying torches!