In 1997, Clifton was named the “Norwegian Capital of Texas” and its heritage is kept alive through events like the Norwegian Country Christmas, which offers a weekend of history and fun for those wanting to experience a Norwegian style of Christmas. Central to the Christmas celebrations was also all the work being done in establishing the Cleng Peerson Institute, CPI, spearheaded by Clifton Mayor Fred Volcansek.
Part of this holiday event was a lighted Christmas Parade, where the Norwegian Consul General Jostein Mykletun was this year's Grand Marshal, with his wife Sonia Mykletun. A tour to St. Olaf’s Church, Our Savior’s Lutheran Church at Norse and the Jens Ringness home, and an authentic Norwegian Christmas lunch could also be enjoyed.
In addition, The Bosque Arts Center, a fine arts complex housed in the former Clifton Lutheran College, held its yearly Christmas Open House. The Center was beautifully decorated to reflect Clifton’s Norwegian and pioneer heritage, and the gift shop was filled with Norwegian souvenirs.Visitors could also enjoy seasonal museum exhibits, Norwegian foods and shop for homemade Christmas gifts like candies, paintings, pottery, crafts and jewelry.
~ All photos by Elin Ovestad Gaard ~