What's Going on in Westby, Wisconsin?

Westby Wisconsin is located approximately 22 miles south east of La Crosse Wisconsin. The population of Westby is about 2500 and it is a small Norwegian settlement that dates back to 1848 when the first Norwegian immigrants settled in the area. The area was first populated with Sac, Fox, and Winnebago Indian tribes. In November of 1867 all land east of the Mississippi was ceded from the Indian tribes to the United States. The village of Westby was incorporated in 1896 and made a city in 1920. The town has a rich heritage and many attractions.

One of the biggest festivals in the city of Westby is the annual Syttende Mai Festival. The event was first held in 1969 and has been held every year since. The festival is full of Norwegian history and events. From Troll hunts to rosemaling, anything Norwegian goes here! A parade is held during the festival and you will witness many townspeople dressed in historic Norwegian attire. Food is served all weekend long as well as live bands playing and many other festive activities. For a full listing of the years events visit: http://www.westbywi.com/Syttende%20Mai.html. The festival is held on the weekend that is closest to May 17th which is the day of Norway's original Constitution.

Westby is also home to a wonderful bed and breakfast called the Westby House Victorian Inn. The Bed and Breakfast boasts of a stay that will return you to a simpler time and will combine history, comfort and hospitality to make your stay as relaxing as possible. Whirlpool suites, fireplaces and unique Victorian era artifacts can be found in many of the rooms in the Bed and Breakfast for your enjoyment. A full gourmet breakfast is served daily for you enjoyment. To look up prices and more information visit: http://www.westbyhouse.com/pages/westby-house.html.

Another great attraction to the Westby Wisconsin area is Living Waters Bible Camp. The camp is a year-round institution for people of all ages. Weekly summer camps are held all summer long and consist of youth and family style camps. During the spring, fall and winter months the camp is used as a retreat center and may be rented out by groups for an event. The camp is focused on Jesus Christ as our creator and has an amazing creation center that is unique to the camp and is used as a great teaching resource. Their vision statement is the verse from the Bible found in Colossians 1:28: "That everyone would know Jesus Christ as their Savior and be complete in Him." To learn more about Living Waters Bible Camp visit their website: http://www.lwbc.org/.

Westby is also home to the annual Snowflake Ski Jumping International Tournament. The ski jump is located just 2 miles northwest of Westby . The tournament is held in February and brings many tourists to the area. You can watch the top United States competitors fly through the air as they jump from the 114 meter hill. Visit: http://www.snowflakeskiclub.com/ for the full story!

Westby is located in the "drift-less" region of the Midwest. The area is home of the Mississippi River and has been left untouched for ages past. The scenery is beautiful and breathtaking throughout the area. The town's main street is lined with unique thrift shops, small cafes, bakeries and antique shops. It is a town that you will never forget and plan to return to for another visit!