​The United States men’s run in the World Cup may have ended on Monday, but that didn’t mean the soccer excitement in Kitsap had to fade. That same afternoon, Gabrielle McGraw, owner of Red Plantation in Poulsbo and marketing and event chair of the Historic Downtown Poulsbo Association, recognized a common question popping up on social media: what was “Little Norway” doing to celebrate Norway’s own bold World Cup run to the quarterfinals? “I’ve been enjoying the vibes around FIFA, and how it’s bringing people together,” McGraw said. “I don’t think we anticipated it would become as big as it has.”
With a quick burst of networking and planning between the city and downtown businesses, Poulsbo’s own “Viking Row” was organized for Saturday at noon at Waterfront Park, in advance of the 2 p.m. World Cup match between England and Norway. The event aims to echo the viral energy and fan momentum Norway’s supporters have generated during the country’s first five World Cup games, where star striker Erling Haaland and his teammates electrified crowds by advancing to the quarterfinals with a victory over Brazil—sparking widespread celebration with “rowing” chants from fans. The match will pit Norway against England at 2 p.m. on Saturday, July 11, with a chance to reach the semifinals on the line.
What exactly is a “Viking Row”? It’s a nod to the moment when Norway’s players join fans in a rousing viral chant after their win over Senegal, a moment that has sparked copycat celebrations worldwide. McGraw explained that Saturday’s Poulsbo event will begin at noon, as the Viking Row parade—featuring the group that headlines other community gatherings—marches down Front Street toward the park. Once there, attendees can join in along the park’s lawn for a rousing “Row,” mirroring the chants heard in stands and outside stadiums during Norway’s games. The scene will be filmed for a viral moment to share, and afterward participants are encouraged to stay and watch the game at local venues.
Her advice for anyone hoping to join in the row: wear as much red as possible. The Sip, Brass Kraken, Valholl Brewery, Poulsbo Wood Fired Pizza, The Skal House Pub, State 42, and the newly opened Aiger’s Public House will all have screens going for the game, McGraw noted. “As the businesses downtown, we need this; we’ve needed some fun,” she added.
For more details, check the Historic Downtown Poulsbo Association’s Facebook page, where you’ll also find videos from Saturday’s event. This feature originally appeared in Kitsap Sun, with a nod to the SEO context around “Little Norway looking to make waves for Norway’s World Cup game.”