Decorah families will be able to visit Vesterheim without paying admission during the museum’s next Free Second Saturday program, which is scheduled for Saturday, Aug. 8. The monthly event will pair all-day museum access with a hands-on activity introducing visitors to rosemaling, a traditional Norwegian decorative art.
Vesterheim will be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. during the event. The family rosemaling activity is scheduled for 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., giving participants a three-hour period to create their own pattern while exploring the museum.
What to know before visiting
- Event: Free Second Saturday
- Date: Saturday, Aug. 8
- Museum hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Rosemaling activity: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Admission: Free
Rosemaling is a traditional Norwegian decorative-art design. The family activity will focus on creating a rosemaling pattern, giving participants an introduction to the art form alongside access to Vesterheim’s museum offerings.
A recurring free program in Decorah
Free Second Saturday is held on the second Saturday of each month, according to the supplied event information. The recurring program combines free admission with family activities and offers local residents and visitors an opportunity to experience the Decorah museum without an admission charge.
There is a timing discrepancy in the supplied material. The article metadata lists publication on Aug. 22, 2026, and an update on Aug. 23, 2026, even though the event is identified as Saturday, Aug. 8. The text also says the event information was published Aug. 7, 2026, and updated Aug. 11, 2026. Visitors should verify the date and schedule with Vesterheim before making plans in case the details have changed.