🎉 Annual Norwegian Kumla & Ham Supper

🍞 Ethnic church suppers may not be as common as they once were, but one beloved tradition is thriving once again! The annual Norwegian Kumla and Ham Supper at Ullensvang Lutheran Church in Thor made its comeback two years ago after disappearing well before COVID-19 — and it’s going strong.

🥔 Last year’s by-ticket-only event required 200 pounds of processed potatoes to feed nearly 200 guests. That’s quite a crowd for a town of just 181 residents! 😮

📅 Event Details

Date: Thursday, March 12
Location: Ullensvang Lutheran Church, Thor, Iowa

🍽 Take-out orders are welcome!

🏔 A Perfect Setting for Norwegian Heritage

Thor is a fitting place for a Norwegian heritage meal. Nearly 150 years ago, north central Iowa was settled by waves of Norwegian immigrants. Thor, located in Norway Township, is named after the Viking deity who presided over the feasting hall of Valhalla in Norse mythology. ⚡

The church itself is named after the historic stone Ullensvang Church in the fjord country of western Norway, dating back to Viking times. Before Christianity, the Ullensvang site was a center of Viking worship and culture. 🏴

🌞 A Seasonal Celebration

Interestingly, most Kumla suppers are held in March, around the time of the spring equinox. Imagine how meaningful the end of winter must have been in far northern lands a thousand years ago. ❄➡🌿

Many Kumla feeds are also held on Thursdays — the day named after Thor himself. A fitting coincidence! 💫

🧣 Dress the Part!

All Vikings attending are kindly reminded to leave axes, hammers, and swords at the door. 🪓 🪔

Guests are encouraged to celebrate their heritage by wearing:

• 🧥 Icelandic or Norwegian sweaters
• 👗 Nordic folk costumes
• 👕 Norwegian-themed T-shirts
• 🔴 Red sweaters, jackets, or shirts — just like at the Winter Olympics!

🎤 Live Auction & Church Benefit

A live church benefit auction begins at 6:30 p.m. 📢

Funds raised will help cover the cost of repairs to the church hall roof. 🏠

Everyone is welcome! 🙌

📞 For More Information

Marion Denklau: 515-378-3231
Lois Nerem: 515-378-3144