Norwegian clubs, associations, and organizations are a great way to learn new things and meet new friends who enjoy similar interests. A seat may be waiting for you!
Certain clubs are strictly Norwegian which can help you take a deep dive into your heritage, while others may be more broadly Nordic or Scandinavian which will show you some similarities and differences between cultures.
There are many kinds of Norwegian special interest groups and there could be some near you! Often you can visit an event for free to see if you like it. Membership usually has a reasonable annual fee to cover the cost of the meeting space.
Norwegian Animal Clubs
There are some remarkable Norwegian animals that have very devoted fans. It’s only natural for them to get together and share their interests – and pictures!
Some of the animal clubs you might find include the following:
- Norwegian Buhund
- Norwegian Elkhound
- Norwegian Lundehund
- Norwegian Fjord Horse
- Norwegian Forest Cat
- Norwegian Red or Telemark Cattle
Some benefits of joining a Norwegian animal club might be:
- Animal advocacy, rescue, or community outreach
- Animal training, showmanship, or agility classes
- Breeder’s directory
- Breed-specific health tips
- Pedigree database
- Shows, matches, and events
Norwegian Organizations for Artists
Even during the Dark Ages where much of Europe was sticking to the basics, art culture has flourished in Norway. Interest in these Norwegian arts have spread across the globe, opening the doors to many types of clubs.
- Music: Dance, Chorus, Fiddle, etc.
- Rosemal painting
- Sewing and needlework
- Woodworking
Norwegian Organizations for Athletes
Norway is a fairly athletic country. Norwegians just love the outdoors and staying active, in general.
Here are some of the Norwegian athletic organizations you may find or create within bigger clubs:H
- Hiking, climbing, or geocaching
- Ice sports like hockey, skating, or curling
- Skiing, of every type
- Soccer, or fotball, as it’s called in Norwegian
- Water sports: boating, fishing, or swimming
Norwegian Clubs for Business and Trade
It hasn’t always been that way, but Norway has become a wealthy country. With that comes a lot of business opportunities.
In order to maximize those opportunities here are some benefits you might realize from joining a Norwegian business club:
- A nice line on your resume
- Advertising or sponsorship options
- Connections to international organizations or firms
- Information on business culture, laws, marketing, and other topics.
- Membership directories for introductions
- Networking opportunities
- Newsletters
- Special events for holidays
One of the best known organizations of this type might be the Norwegian American Chamber of Commerce (NACC).
Norwegian Clubs for Genealogy Research
Since the topic can be complex, some Norwegian organizations focus specifically on genealogy research. A group like this is called a Lag. To compile a rich pool of knowledge the lag will typically focus on a specific area in Norway.
With their experience and resources, the benefits to joining a lag to build out the gaps in your family tree can really make a difference in both the results and enjoyment of your project.
Norwegian Clubs for Individuals and Families
General purpose Norwegian clubs can be very educational and great fun, too!
While some are specific to a group like women (Lakselaget) or Norwegian nationals (Nordmanns-Forbundet), most of them are open to anyone, so go ahead and ask! One of the largest Norwegian groups that is open to everyone is the Norwegian-American Sons of Norway fraternal club, with lodges in the United States, Canada, and Norway.
Create or Join a Club
Government support from embassies and agencies for formal things like passports and laws are great. Museums are wonderful for seeing artifacts or presentations. An association or club specific to your interests, however, can be one of the best ways to learn about Norwegian things and meet new people on an ongoing basis. Many people make lifelong friends and memories in these organizations.
If there is a Norwegian club near you, give it a try. If there isn’t one nearby, join a virtual group (forums, Facebook, etc.) or grab a few neighbors and consider starting a club of your own!
Hello, My mother was 100% Norwegian and I would love to learn how to do Rosemaling painting. I live in Langley B.C. and I’m unsure of how to find a class for this. Are you able to assist me in this?
Thank you.
Classes come and go but there’s often something going on at the Sons of Norway; BC is in District 7. Granted it is a bit further, but the Nordic Heritage Museum in Seattle, WA also has many events.
My father is half Norwegian, his mother (my grandmother) was full Norwegian. Where would I find a place teaching Norwegian or of Norwegian culture?
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