Famous for fierce warriors and unmatched seamanship, the Vikings were a prominent part of European history. This weekend, local residents will have the chance to experience some of that rich culture first-hand at the ninth annual Nordic Heritage Festival.

The festival, hosted by the Norwegian Heritage Society, will take place from noon to 9 p.m. Saturday at Building 21 of the Douglas County Fairgrounds.

Visitors will have the chance to experience and explore all aspects of Nordic culture, from food and crafts to dance and music. Viking living history re-enactors will give performances as well as Scandinavian dancers, musicians and other entertainers.

Besides live performances, the festival will also be flowing with Scandinavian foods, traditions, art and culture. Booths and demonstrations will be open from noon to 4:30 p.m., live entertainment begins after 4:30 p.m. and a Scandinavian potluck dinner is set for 5:30 p.m.

Activities will include storytelling, embroidery, costume displays, needle felting, Nordic games, rosemaling, spinning and weaving, wheat weaving and woodworking.

For more information, visit www.nordicheritagefes.com or call 843-7535. Suggested donation is $5.