American festival Vanse Farsund

Adam from Visit Sørlandet went to the American Festival in Vanse Farsund and had a great time!

I have been to Farsund many times now and I was especially interested to see the American Festival that I had heard so much about.

The weather was perfect. Not a cloud in the sky and warm temperatures. I got there at about 2pm because I wanted to see the line dancers that were scheduled to start at that time. 

The Festival goes from Thursday to Sunday in the last weekend of June every year and each year it is getting more and more popular. This year was no exception. It is held in Vanse at 8th Avenue where there are American stores, cars, flag and memorabilia everywhere. It is actually like that all year, but even more so during the festival.

There are stalls dotted everywhere selling hamburgers and hot dogs. There are kids rides and swing and a massive theme park set up especially for the festival.

This festival is the biggest in the region, so the locals do their best to put on a good show for everyone. Each day it packed with different activities, games and live music. If you like country music, then this is the place to be.

There is Kjell Elvis who, like his name suggests, is an Elvis impersonator. The stage area was jam packed when he played. He loves to interact with the audience and there is usually a lucky lady or two that will get on stage with him for a dance or a hug.

Others bands and musicians from Norway and the United States play at the festival with live music keeping visitors entertained. Twice a day there is the highlight of the day, the parade. This is where a long line of American classic cars, motorbikes and floats drive along 8th avenue to a pleased crowd. There are Disney characters throwing candy to the kids along the road, bands playing music on floats and of course Elvis in his limousine.

Vanse is a small place, but has a big heart. You can stop and talk to anyone there who are more than happy to share a story or a laugh. It does not matter if you are not Norwegian, they cal all speak English at this festival.

I met lots of people at the festival. I met Finn who is the main man organising the event.

I also met a lovely couple who drove to the festival in their 17 metre long camper van!

There were also two sisters that were having a great time.

There was Farsund's watchman.

Some girls from Oslo who love to dress old retro style. Not just for the festival, but always.

You can find some more information about the American festival here.

All photos: Adam Read Visit Sørlandet. Dra på ferie til Farsund