BAY RIDGE — FASTELAVN, THE DANISH VERSION OF MARDI GRAS, comes to Bay Ridge on Saturday, Feb. 7. The Scandinavian East Coast Museum sponsors this annual event, held in advance of the penitential season of Lent, which is observed in many Lutheran countries, including in Denmark, Norway and Sweden. Lent begins early this year, on Feb. 18, which will be Ash Wednesday.
Bay Ridge carries a rich Scandinavian history dating back to the immigration waves of the mid-19th century and again post-World War II. The Scandinavian East Coast Museum has for several years sponsored Fastelavn, which is celebrated with the decoration of spring branches, the enjoyment of special cream buns and of course costumes.
The $75 admission ($45 for children age 14 and under) to this significant cultural event includes a four-course meal and games. Swedish-American Bay Ridge resident and second-generation accordion player Ellen Lindstrom, who tours New York, the tri-state and the mid-Atlantic region, will present Scandinavian music. Hosting the event is Vesuvio’s Restaurant on Third Ave. For reservations call Victoria at 929-745-4839.
Participants at past Fastelavn celebrations have dressed up as Vikings, royalty and even the Academy Awards statue, according to previous Brooklyn Eagle coverage.
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