The Salmon Festival in Lærdal
Join an exciting and activity-filled festival weekend celebrating the wild Atlantic salmon and life in and around the Lærdal river! The Salmon festival combines nature experiences, culture, local food, and activities for the whole family. Over the course of three days, you can take part in everything from fly-fishing workshops, inspiring talks, and guided spawning walks to yoga, climbing, concerts, dancing, and pizza buffets. Whether you want to learn something new, stay active outdoors, or simply enjoy the lively atmosphere by the river, there is something for both children and adults.
Join an unforgettable Salmon Festival weekend
The festival offers everything from talks and author conversations about wild salmon and local gin, to unique nature experiences along the Lærdal river. Join guided spawning walks where you can observe salmon during the spawning season, or take part in fly-fishing workshops suitable for both children and adults. Here, you can learn how to cast a fly rod or improve your technique. If you are eager to prepare for your next fishing trip, Saturday’s fly-tying workshop gives you the chance to create your own salmon flies.
On Saturday evening, the festival continues with concerts, great food, and the opportunity to hit the dance floor during the Salmon Festival party with DJ Trym. The festival concludes on Sunday with a relaxing yoga session led by Anne Marie Torheim from Fjordyoga, followed by brunch at Laksen Kafé & Bakeri and another guided spawning walk.
Most of the programme is free and open to everyone. However, entry to the evening events (18+ age limit) requires either a day pass or a festival pass.The entire festival programme is suitable for both locals and visitors with an interest in nature, wild salmon, and local food traditions.
Admission to the exhibitions at the Norwegian Wild Salmon Centre is free throughout the weekend. Laksen Kafé & Bakeri will also offer a special festival menu during the weekend, featuring fish soup and baked potatoes.
Program
Location
Øyraplassen 14, 6887 Lærdal
The Salmon Festival in Lærdal
Explore Lærdal
Historic Guided Walk in Old Town Lærdal
Join a guided tour through the charming streets of Old Lærdalsøyri and learn about the towns interesting history.
Wild Salmon Visitor Centre in Lærdal
Get to know wild salmon through an immersive exhibition. Explore their anatomy, senses, diet, and life cycle. Follow their journey from the river to the ocean and back again to the fjord and river. Along the way, learn about salmon ecology, the challenges they face, and their importance to people - past and present.
Borgund Stave Church and guided walk on the King's Road
Borgund Stave Church, dating back to the 12th century, is one of the best-preserved stave churches in Norway.
Laksen Bakery and Café
A rich variety of freshly baked goods based on local produce with local and international flavour.
Scenic day trip to Lærdal & Stegastein
Join a day trip to Lærdal filled with beautiful nature, interesting history and Norwegian salmon.