Poulsbo is known affectionately as Little Norway, but its other nickname is the Viking City. The charming little city is located on the Kitsap Peninsula, and if you’ve ever been, you know it tends to steal your heart. And one of the best times to go is in May, when Poulsbo’s Scandinavian founders are celebrated at Viking Fest.

Viking Fest is an annual 3‑day celebration of Poulsbo’s rich Scandinavian heritage.

Poulsbo Viking Fest Facebook And, yes, it is certainly a great excuse to dress like a viking.

This year’s festival dates are May 17 - 19, so it’s right around the corner.

Poulsbo Viking Fest Facebook This is a fantastic small town celebration you won’t want to miss.

There are plenty of events, contests, attractions, and festivities during the three day event, but the main highlight is definitely the Viking Fest Parade held on Saturday.

Poulsbo Viking Fest Facebook The parade has between 80 and 90 attractions and typically kicks off in the late morning.

The little ones in your life will definitely love the carnival and street fair, which they can enjoy on all three days.

Poulsbo Viking Fest Facebook Rides, games, crafts, art, and delicious food await them.

Speaking of food, you should come to the festival hungry.

Poulsbo Viking Fest Facebook You’ll find plenty of local food trucks and vendors selling tasty local goodness.

And if you’re REALLY hungry, you can sign up for the donut eating contest.

Poulsbo Viking Fest Facebook You’ll have 15 minutes to eat a King Olaf Donut, which weighs a whopping 3 pounds. But if you do win, you get a $100 gift card ($200 if you finish it!) and your name in the Guinness Book of World Records. They also have donut contests for children.

The festival also includes plenty of live music and whimsical competitions like strong man contests and a fish toss.

Poulsbo Viking Fest Facebook This is the kind of small town celebration you rarely see anymore.

Mark your calendar for the third weekend in May and check out Viking Fest. And while you’re there, spend plenty of time exploring Poulsbo — it’s worth it.

Poulsbo Viking Fest Facebook

And, yes, it is certainly a great excuse to dress like a viking.

This is a fantastic small town celebration you won’t want to miss.

The parade has between 80 and 90 attractions and typically kicks off in the late morning.

Rides, games, crafts, art, and delicious food await them.

You’ll find plenty of local food trucks and vendors selling tasty local goodness.

You’ll have 15 minutes to eat a King Olaf Donut, which weighs a whopping 3 pounds. But if you do win, you get a $100 gift card ($200 if you finish it!) and your name in the Guinness Book of World Records. They also have donut contests for children.

This is the kind of small town celebration you rarely see anymore.

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