New features for Viking Fest May 16-18 | Viking Fest

Published 2:51 pm Friday, May 2, 2014

POULSBO — The 2014 Viking Fest will feature some new contests. One is particularly challenging and involves eating a two-pound glazed and chocolate-frosted doughnut.

Sluys Bakery is sponsoring the Donut Konkurranse — the latter word is Norwegian for “competition.” According to Kathy Foresee of the Viking Fest Corporation, the two top finishers will face off for the title, the contest decided by who eats the most of their two-pound dunker.

It’s the third contest for those seeking gustatorial glory during Viking Fest, May 16-18. Look for competitive eater Victor “The Devastator” Dew to defend his Lutefisk-Eating Contest title (he ate 7 pounds to win the 2012 title and more than 4 pounds to win the 2013 title). Chris Posten may return to defend his Oyster-Eating Contest title.

Those who pride themselves on their cupcake-making skills will want to sign up now for the Kupcake Krigen — the latter word Norwegian for war. Ditto for the Message in a Bottle Race, the proceeds of which will help pay for the 3rd of July fireworks show. Go to www.vikingfest.org to sign up.

There will also be running races and stand-up paddleboard races. Consider celebrating Norway’s Constitution Day — that’s what Viking Fest is about, by the way — with a healthy walk around Little Norway; join Volkswalk, a noncompetitive group walk around Poulsbo.

And, of course, Viking Fest will feature the big parade on May 17, the Viking Village, live entertainment, vendors, and carnival.

Other timely stuff you should know about this year’s Viking Fest:

— Carnival wristbands go on sale May 5 at AmericanWest Bank, 18960 Highway 305, Poulsbo.

— The final day of Viking Fest, May 18, will have longer hours than previous years: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., instead of 4 p.m.