Valborg: A Swedish Spring Celebration

Valborg, short for Valborgsmässoafton, (also known as Walpurgis Night in English and Walpurgisnacht in German) is one of Sweden's most cherished Spring holidays. Originally, it was a way to mark the changing seasons and keep evil spirits at bay – but today, it's a joyful community celebration that rejoices in Spring and the coming of warmer days ahead. Valborg is celebrated by gathering around bonfires on the last day of April for storytelling, songs, speeches, food and drink. Sounds fun, eh? Let's do it!

What to Expect: This will be an outdoor celebration at Ida's house soon to be known as 'Caveside Wellness'; a backyard wood-fired sauna and healing space. There will be 3 separate fires going to gather around. Yes there will be singing, yes there will be bucket loads of merriment! The event is free to the community but will be potluck & BYOB style. All ages welcome. You're welcome to bring a friend or the whole family.

What to Bring:

• Potluck dish or something to grill on the BBQ
• BYOB
• Folding camp chair
• Dress appropriately for outside fun
• Sauna attire, water bottle & towel if partaking (see below)

Sauna Use: The sauna will be fired up for those that would like to partake. I am asking for a $15-$30 sliding fee for sauna usage. If you do, you will need to sign my liability waiver and attest that you are NOT under the influence of any alcohol or substances.
Here's a list of what to bring & wear

• Sauna attire: sarong, swimsuit, tank/sports bra, & shorts; inside the sauna is clothing optional but you MUST cover up when outside the sauna
• Towel
• Non-glass water bottle

When: Wednesday April 30th from 6-10pm
Drop on by for a bit or stay the whole time!

Where: Caveside Wellness
525 E Fairfield St. Gladstone, OR 97027
Plenty of parking around Max Patterson Park

Cost: Free!
Potluck & BYOB
$15-$30 sliding fee if you want to use the sauna
www.idacavewoman.com/payments
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