Westby, population of 2,332, is in Vernon County. It was settled in the late 1840s by Norwegian immigrants. It is named after the general store owner and Civil War Union Soldier, Ole T. Westby. The name "Westby" translates to "Western City." The town’s downtown reflects its Norwegian heritage and hosts two famous annual festivals—Syttende Mai and the Snowflake Ski Club Ski Jump.
Westby's most popular event is the Syttende Mai festival, an annual three-day event held in mid-May. The festival stems from Westby's Norwegian roots, Syttende Mai being a Norwegian holiday ("Syttende Mai" translates to "Seventeenth of May") celebrating Norway's independence and the signing of the Norwegian Constitution.
The festival's main attractions are the cultural shops, where many Norwegian products are sold; the food stands; and the troll hunt. At the start of the weekend, a small troll, standing several inches tall, is hidden somewhere within the city limits. A clue is posted downtown on each of the three days until someone finds the troll.
Westby has one of the largest ski jumps in the United States, where the Snowflake Ski Club hosts an annual ski jump event at the end of January and the beginning of February. The event includes a parade to introduce all of the participating countries, a competition for "Snowflake" royalty, and opportunities for local businesses to sell their wares. The event attracts competitors from all over the ski jumping world.
To learn more about the history of Westby and the area, check out the link to Westby Area Historical Society. Click here.
When not enjoying one of these two festivals there are plenty of things to do in Westby. Shop the unique shops downtown. Get a bite to eat (don't forget the pie at Borgen's Cafe), get cheese curds at a local creamery or a bottle of wine at a local winery. Check out Dregne’s Scandinavian Gifts, the Snowflake Ski Club or play a round of golf at Snowflake Golf Club, swim in the local pool, hike, fish, and more.
To find our more about what there is to do in and around Westby, go to the Westby Chamber's website: click here.
