Many blues enthusiasts plan their vacations around festivals, cruises, and similar events. If you’re one of those people, I enthusiastically recommend visiting the Notodden Blues Festival in Norway. It’s surprising that a town with a population of just over 13,000 hosts such an impressive blues festival, complete with its own Blues Walk of Fame honoring past participants.

Main stage entrance - Hovigs  Hangar

Since its inception in 1988, the festival has played a pivotal role in revitalizing the city. For more about the festival and its history, check out this interview with Jostein Forsberg, the festival’s director, by Stacy Jeffress of American Blues Scene here.

Art Tipaldi interviewing Mike Zito and Albert Castiglia at the Book and Blueshouse.

Elles Bailey performing on one of the many stages.

Patiently waiting to enter the hangar.

Blues Walk of Fame

The Notodden Blues Festival (NBF) is one of the largest in Europe, attracting visitors from around the world each year with its stellar lineup.

Rag'n'Bone Man - Hovigs Hangar

Jostein Forsberg playing harmonica.

The Book and Blueshouse built by the festival showing a hallway featuring posters from previous years.

No festival is complete without a beer garden!

Heddal Stave Church nearby

The festival alone is a compelling reason to visit Norway, but the country’s breathtaking fjords, mountains, ocean views, and rich history make the trip even more memorable.

Your next European Trip must include this festival.
Skål!!