The self-proclaimed Norwegian capital of the United States, Milan is a small Southwest Minnesota town with a vibrant community fabric. Its Scandinavian roots are planted beside a community of newcomers from the Federated States of Micronesia who began arriving 25 years ago. Both cultures will be on display at the Taste of Syttende Mai celebration.
“We celebrate our past, but we also celebrate who we are today,” said Ann Thompson, who helps coordinate the event. “I think it’s really important for communities to have celebrations that people recognize and look forward to every year. I think it builds community pride and puts us on the map.”
Our partner the Milan Community Foundation has granted money to support the gathering over several years.
History of Taste of Syttende Mai
Literally “May 17,” Syttende Mai commemorates the signing of Norway’s constitution in 1814. In Milan, the festivities will be hosted on May 16, 2026. There will be a parade, live music by Skålmusik, kids activities, scavenger hunt and games.
Ann grew up in Milan, the fourth generation of her family to call this town home. She owns Billy Maple Tree’s Gift Shop downtown and is a board member of the Milan Community Foundation, among many other volunteer commitments.
“In my dad’s museum in Milan, we have pictures from the Syttende Mai from the early 1900s. It kind of went by the wayside. Then 21 years ago some people reinvented it, and they called it a Taste of Syttende Mai,” Ann said.
One of the highlights is the Smorgaas Tea put on by Kvitseid Lutheran Church. The congregants work tirelessly to create a variety of Norwegian delights like lefse, krumkaaka, Norwegian meatballs, blod klub, rommegrot and more. The homemade spread is something to experience.
The parade is another can’t-miss festival favorite. It’s packed with quirky fun, according to Ann. A small but mighty showing of floats make their way through town, including many entries from the Micronesian community.
“Just because we do it one way one year doesn’t mean it always has to be that way. My hope is that our festival will grow and evolve with our changing community, and it already has,” Ann said.
About the Milan Community Foundation
Since its founding in 2004, the Milan Community Foundation has received $91,030 in gifts and granted out $91,793. This local community foundation is a vehicle for making charitable contributions for the benefit of the community through a permanent endowment fund that enables people to give back and fulfill the dreams for tomorrow.
“More has gone out than has ever gone in, and the current balance of the endowment is more than $178,000. That’s the power of endowments,” said SWIF Community Gift Officer Jeff Vetsch.
In addition to a Taste of Syttende Mai, the grants have supported a wide range of activities, projects and needs. This includes art initiatives, summer recreation, cooking classes, fire department equipment, and maintenance of the former school building that now houses several community‑focused programs.
After several quieter years, the Milan Community Foundation is ready for a fresh chapter. The foundation is poised to re-energize its mission, rebuild momentum, and invest once again in the people and ideas that make Milan a vibrant community. To that end, the foundation is seeking new board members who are interested in community building and collaborative leadership.
Each of our 31 community foundation partners is guided by a local advisory board of leaders who know their communities best. These board members raise funds, recommend grants, share stories of local impact, and champion the good work happening in their towns. Their commitment ensures that neighbors have the resources and support they need to create lasting, positive change.
How to Get Involved
Board service is a great way to meet new people, among many other benefits. If you’re interested in serving on the board for the Milan Community Foundation or any of our local affiliates, reach out to us at [email protected].