Skip to main content

Julefest: From the Archives

Untitled design

For nearly five decades, Julefest has brought the warmth, joy, and magic of the Nordic holidays to the heart of Ballard. As we gear up for the 2025 celebration, November 21-23, take a walk down memory lane with photos from past Julefests.

2005:

A shopper peruses hand-painted décor at the Julefest marketplace in 2005. Since moving into our new building in 2018, our Julefest vendors are now located outside, mimicking the festive outdoor Christmas markets found across the Nordic countries.

1995:

An accordion player performs at 1995's event. Each year, we invite dozens of performers to sing, dance, and entertain the crowd in Valhalla Beer Hall.

2009:

A volunteer sets out homemade cookies for Goodies2Go, one of the Museum’s longest-standing Julefest traditions, in 2009. Run by volunteers since its inception, Goodies2Go sells delicious Nordic treats that sell out every year!

1995:

Æbleskiver, Danish pancake balls that are popular around the holidays, have long been a Julefest tradition! Here, two volunteers prepare the tasty treat at Julefest in 1995. These days, we sell thousands of æbleskiver over the course of the weekend, and Museum staff and volunteers work hard to keep up with demand!

2019:

Two attendees wear traditional dress at Julefest 2019. You're encouraged to dress in your best bunads or Nordic sweaters!

2011:

Dancers perform at Julefest 2011 (back when it was spelled "Yulefest"!)

Julefest 2023-141

Join Us at Julefest 2025 ❄

Modeled after the festive outdoor Christmas markets found across the Nordic countries, Julefest captures the essence of Scandinavian holiday traditions while adding a unique Pacific Northwest twist! Get your tickets today to join us for Julefest 2025, November 21-23.

Get Your Tickets

Scroll down for even more images from the archives! ⬇️

Photo Gallery