Norway House Going Viking Award — 2026

Each year, the Norway House Founders’ Council presents the Going Viking Award to recognize those who embody a spirit of bold adventure, purposeful ambition, and courageous action. Rooted in the history of Norwegian exploration and the values that guide Norway House’s mission, this award celebrates the people and/or organizations who dare to push beyond the expected—and inspire others in doing so.

Minnesota author Tom C. Veblen—the great-nephew of the renowned Norwegian-American economist Thorstein Veblen, and shaped by the Scandinavian immigrant communities of the Red River Valley in Minnesota—captured the spirit of this award in his writings on the “Going Viking” spirit:

To be adventuresome, explore, discover, to exert oneself, aspire, to take a stab at, have a go or crack or whack, or a shot at; to pursue hard, bold, dangerous, or important undertakings…

The award may recognize an individual or organization. While Norwegian heritage and ties to Norway House's mission are a natural fit, nominees of all backgrounds are encouraged—what matters most is embodying the “Going Viking” spirit.

All nominations are carefully considered, though selection is not guaranteed.

Presented during Vinterfest at Norway House, December 1, 2026