In partnership with Finlandia Foundation Columbia-Pacific Chapter, Portland Finnish School, and New Sweden Chapter, we are happy to invite you to celebrate Vappu on the Fogelbo grounds next to Nordia House. There will be traditional Vappu foods to enjoy and a no-host bar with beer, wine, and sodas.

This is a free family event with a sing-along and activities for children. Bring your lawn chairs and blankets. Outdoor Kubb, weather permitting, will be played on the Fogelbo lawn.

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So what is Vappu?

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Vappu (Valborg in Swedish and Walpurgis in English) is celebrated annually on April 30 and May 1. It marks the end of winter. May Day is a national holiday to celebrate Labor Day in Finland and the time for festive student traditions. People dust off their spring clothes and graduation caps and wear them around town and on picnics in the parks. Balloons are everywhere for kids and adults alike!

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People enjoy eating sima with munkki, which is a sweet mead with doughnut. This is the one time in the year when the people in Finland make and eat tippaleipa, similar to a funnel cake. Makkara ja perunasalaatti is the savory dish that is traditionally served.

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Parking: We encourage guests to use public transportation or ride-sharing services. Our 50-space parking lot is open on a first come, first-served, basis and limited street parking is available on SW 89th & 90th Avenues.

 

Accessibility: Nordia House has two accessible parking spots in our main lot facing SW Oleson Rd. Both the main entrance facing SW Oleson Rd. and our side entrance facing SW Taylors Ferry Rd. are wheelchair accessible. All restrooms have accessible stalls but no power doors. We will do our best to accommodate your needs upon arrival. Please call 503-977-0275 or email info@nordicnorthwest.org to arrange further assistance.