Jessica Ackerman, Minot

The 44th Norsk Hostfest is just weeks away. Your $44 admission ticket gets you access to free side stages, free demonstrations, and fun for all ages. Thanks to the generosity of Cornerstone Bank, kids under 12 receive free general admission to the festival.

Kids and parents won’t want to miss Koo Koo Kangaroo. The Minneapolis-based duo will be rockin’ on the Skien Mezzanine, and they’ll have everyone on their feet boppin’ to their electric dance music. Koo Koo Kangaroo didn’t start as a kids’ band, but their interactive dance shows were such a hit with adults that parents began asking the duo to perform at their kids’ schools and birthday parties. Their silly, often ridiculous, shows feature songs about only eating pizza, moving yo’ body, and fanny packs. Concerts usually feature a kids’ dance competition, so get the little ones ready to bust a move.

Interactive activities don’t stop at the mezzanine. “The Troll Jamboree” is a troll storybook seek ‘n’ find game created by local artist Max Patzner. Max’s incredible artwork will be hidden throughout the Hostfest halls. Your job is to find them all, scan the QR codes, and unlock whimsical stories. I can’t wait to set off on the adventure along with my kids and my parents for cross-generational fun. We’ll be making a pitstop at the lefse booth — butter with white sugar, please!

We’ll also be making a stop at the Williston Games booth to check out the No. 1 party game from Denmark, KLASK. I’m told it is a fast-paced tabletop version of air hockey that takes seconds to learn and only five minutes to play. We’re due for something new on family game night.

A new parade will grace the Hostfest halls showcasing bunads. I’m looking forward to this daily display of traditional folk dress after seeing so many beautiful and special bunads while in Skien this past May — each bunad has a story. The parade begins at 10:45 a.m. and will be led by Hardanger fiddler, Bud Larson. It ends at 11:15 a.m. in Oslo Hall where the bunad show takes place. Community members are invited to volunteer as models. Visit Hostfest.com to sign up.

I look forward to seeing you Sept. 27-30 at the festival!