by Carstens Smith
Book signings, food tastings, craft demonstrations, and storytelling are all part of the fall events planned at Ingebretsen”'s Scandinavian Gifts this October through December. Many of the events are free. Some are treasured traditions, such as the appearance of the SvenkarnasDag Girls Choir as St. Lucias, and other are new, such as storytelling by author Dag Rossman, who writes young readers”' books based on the Norse myths.
“We”'re presenting a sampler of what we offer at the store ”“ foods, classes, decorating ideas ”“ and we hope people in the neighborhood will come in and try a few new things,” says Julie Ingebretsen, gift store manager. Every afternoon of October Sale Week, October 6 through 13, and all the following Saturday afternoons up to December 15 will feature a food tasting. Aebleskiver (a pastry similar to doughnut holes), bacon-themed foods, chocolate, and of course, lutefisk, are some of the foods that will be featured.
Representatives from the Oakeshott Institute will be at the store on Leif Ericksson Day, October 9. The Oakeshott Institute is one of Minneapolis”'s little-known treasures. British scholar and sword collector Ewart Oakeshott entrusted his collection to Minnesotan Christopher Poor so the collection would remain together and could be enjoyed by scholars and the public. True to the educational mission of the Institute, representatives will bring a display of ancient armor to Ingebretsen”'s. They will give a free talk about the Vikings and the Viking Age at noon.
Other highlights include a huckweaving mini-lesson by textile artist Katherine Kennedy on October 12. Huckweaving is a traditional Swedish needlework technique that is colorful and surprisingly easy. Chip carving, rosemaling (rose painting), acanthus wood carving, and wheat weaving will also be demonstrated. Numerous book signings are scheduled, including one with popular Minnesota cookbook writer, Beatrice Ojakangas. “We planned these events, hoping to include a little something for everyone,” says Julie. “Check our website for a detailed schedule. Or better yet, just stop by and see what”'s happening.”
