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Nearly 1,000 young adults from over 30 countries gathered in Sandefjord, Norway, this August for Festinord 2025. The weeklong event was organized by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and brought together people aged 18 to 35 for a program focused on faith, community, and spiritual development.
The Oslofjord Convention Centre hosted the gathering, which marked the 59th year of Festinord. The annual event has become a significant meeting point for young Christians throughout Europe and other regions. This year's theme, "Part of His Crew," invited attendees to reflect on their spiritual identity and consider their place in religious service.
Participants engaged in daily worship devotionals led by guest speakers. Elder Kevin W. Pearson, President of the Europe North Area, and his wife Sister June Pearson spoke about divine identity and belonging. Elder Mark Dundon, an Area Seventy based in Norway, addressed how faith can lead to meaningful personal change.
Elder Mark Dundon stated: “The atonement is not just there for those who transgress and need to be forgiven, the atonement is also there, for those who are victims of the consequences and choices caused by other people’s actions, to be healed”.
My HellesfromSweden shared her experience: “Festinord is an uplifting experience because you meet friends, you get to feel the spirit and feel our Saviour’s love, and you reconnect spiritually and feel the love of Christ.”
Attendees took part in service projects aimed at supporting emergency aid workers and helping children facing hardship. Alongside these efforts were physical activities such as sports games and Zumba classes. One notable feature was the “Viking Games,” which included axe throwing, archery, and team competitions designed to promote teamwork.
Leah Evensen from Norway described her participation: “It's really fun to take part in all the activities, so going to Festinord was a no-brainer. It's fun to get to know new people and just be social, while knowing that there's an opportunity to build on my faith because there are spiritual activities too. I get to do all the things I want to do, both socially and spiritually”.
Evening programs featured themed dances, musical performances, and a variety show highlighting participant talents.
Festinord traces its origins back to gatherings started by young Latter-day Saints in Sweden in 1934. After World War II ended it resumed with broader participation from neighboring Nordic countries. In 1966 it was renamed Festinord; since then hosting duties have rotated annually among Nordic nations.
As Festinord 2025 ended, many participants reported renewed commitment to their beliefs as well as new friendships formed during their time together.
