
From the Organizer
Nordic fest is an annual 3-day summer festival held in Decorah, Iowa that celebrates community and the area’s Scandinavian heritage. Started in 1967, Nordic fest is organized by a board of volunteers and offers food, activities and entertainment for the whole family.
The Elveløpet is held on the Saturday morning of Nordic Fest weekend. Hailed as Decorah’s “river run” race course along the Upper Iowa river and surrounding area. This family fun event highlights the natural beauty that Decorah has to offer.
Events
Weather
It's too far out for a forecast, so here's what weather on this date is normally like in the area. A race day forecast will replace this as race week approaches.
Typical High
84°
Typical Low
63°
Chance of Rain
33%
Based on US Climate Normals data from Decorah, 1 mi from the venue.
Host City
Population
7,597
as of 2023
Elevation
1,162 ft
Nearest Airport
LSE
La Crosse Regional Airport · 47 mi
Major Hub
MSP
Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport / Wold–Chamberlain Field · 129 mi
Time Zone
Central Time
From Endurance Grid
A small town race. Lodging near the start could be limited, so book early.
Race Location
Your Next Start Line
Every finish line starts with a single decision. Claim your spot at Nordic Fest Elveløpet, put it on the calendar, and turn “someday” into a start date.
Coming Up
Jamison Meyer Memorial 5K
14 miles away
Hawkeye Fun Days 5K
27 miles away
St. Lucas Fun Day 5 K Run
19 miles away
Pulpit to Pulpit
Less than a mile away
From Endurance Grid
Endurance Grid is here to help you understand the sport, decide if it's the right fit, and learn how to prepare. For course distances, logistics, and race-day specifics, always defer to the race organizer's event page.
With running, there's a distance for every fitness level, a community at every start line, and nothing beats the feeling of crossing a finish line you trained for.
Running is an endurance sport that rewards consistency, and showing up every week compounds in ways that will surprise you.
From 5K to marathon, running races are the most accessible entry point into endurance sport. There's a distance for every fitness level and a community at every start line.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Nordic Fest Elveløpet
Jul 25, 2026