Pull Up a Chair: The Longest Table Returns April 23

Due to circumstances beyond our control, we have made the difficult decision to cancel this year’s Longest Table event. If you purchased a ticket, you may return it to the place where you purchased it for a full refund. For those interested in Scandinavian culture, we encourage you to attend Nordic Fest, May 12-16.

Pull Up a Chair: The Longest Table Returns April 23

There’s something powerful about gathering around a table—especially one designed to bring an entire community together. On Wednesday, April 23 at 6:00 PM, the Longest Table returns to Thief River Falls for an evening centered on connection, culture, and shared experience.

This year’s event celebrates Scandinavian heritage while intentionally welcoming both newcomers and long-time residents to sit side by side, share a meal, and build relationships that last far beyond the evening.


A Meal Rooted in Tradition

Guests will enjoy a traditional Scandinavian-style dinner featuring:

  • Swedish meatballs
  • Mashed potatoes
  • Lefse
  • Rømmegrøt
  • Fruit soup
  • Green beans

Each dish tells a story—of heritage, of family, and of the traditions that have shaped this region for generations.

What is Rømmegrøt?

If you’ve never tried rømmegrøt, you’re in for something special. This classic Norwegian dish is a rich, creamy porridge made from cream, flour, milk, and butter. Traditionally served warm and topped with butter, sugar, and cinnamon, rømmegrøt is both comforting and celebratory—often reserved for holidays and gatherings. It’s a true taste of Scandinavian culture.


Music That Connects Generations

The evening will also feature live music by Renee Vaughan, performing on the nyckelharpa, a traditional Swedish keyed string instrument. Its rich, resonant sound adds an authentic and memorable layer to the experience—bringing history to life through music.


More Than a Meal

The Longest Table isn’t just about food—it’s about belonging.

Whether you’re new to the community or have called this place home for decades, this event creates space for meaningful conversations, shared laughter, and new connections. It’s about sitting down together, learning from one another, and strengthening the fabric of the community—one table at a time.


Event Details

  • Date: Wednesday, April 23
  • Time: 6:00 PM
  • Location: Northland Community and Technical College – Gunderson Commons
  • Tickets: Advance purchase required

Reserve Your Seat Today

Seats are limited—and this event has quickly become one of the community’s most anticipated gatherings.

If you’ve been thinking about attending, now is the time to secure your ticket. Bring a friend, invite a neighbor, or come on your own and leave with new connections.

Tickets available through April 12 at Ingram’s Candy Store, Sara Jane Boutique, and the Thief River Falls Chamber of Commerce. (Check online for store hours.)

Don’t wait—this table fills fast.

Renee Vaughn

Performance by Renee Vaughan, following dinner. Visit the Renee Vaughan website for more information on her music.

Thursday, April 23

6:00 PM

Northland Community & Technical College
Gunderson Commons
1101 Highway 1 East
Thief River Falls, MN

Food Allergies

Please be advised that the food served at this event may contain or come into contact with common allergens including, but not limited to: dairy, eggs, wheat, soybeans, tree nuts, peanuts, fish, and shellfish. We cannot guarantee that any food or beverage item will be completely free of allergens due to shared preparation and serving areas.

Guests with food allergies or special dietary needs are encouraged to notify event organizers in advance and to exercise discretion when making food choices during the event.

Youth Voices: Sharing Culture & Tradition

Calling Local Students!

Do you have a story to tell about your family, culture, traditions, or what makes Thief River Falls feel like home? We invite students to participate in Youth Voices: Sharing Culture & Tradition during Welcoming Week on Saturday, September 12 at the Thief River Falls Public Library.

Participants will have the opportunity to share a 5-7 minute story or reading that celebrates culture, heritage, belonging, or community. Five students will receive a $100 stipend in appreciation of their participation.

Interested? Contact Brittany Rolf at brolf@advancethiefriver.com to learn more or sign up.

Help us celebrate the stories that bring our community together!

Register Your Event

Welcoming Week belongs to everyone and everyone has a role to play in making our community welcoming. Businesses, organizations, civic groups, and nonprofits are encouraged to host their own welcoming activities during Welcoming Week.

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