Downtown Stoughton will pulse with creativity and community spirit next week as Innovation Center Stoughton (ICS) joins the Stoughton Chamber of Commerce’s beloved Syttende Mai celebration with two exciting, hands-on activities. 

 New This Year:

Create a Laser Engraved Syttende Mai Medallion
On Thursday, May 15, kick off the festival by diving into digital design and fabrication with a FREE, instructor-led workshop where participants will create their very own wooden medallion using Adobe Illustrator and a laser engraver. Whether you’re looking for a memorable keepsake, keychain, ornament, or necklace, you’ll leave with a custom piece featuring Syttende Mai and Norwegian-themed designs.

Led by art and Fab Lab educator Ruth Phillips and John Basco of Eyewoodwork, the maker behind this year’s official Canoe Race and Viking Games awards, this is your chance to get creative while learning new tech skills.

 Two sessions available: 5:30–6:30 PM & 7:00–8:00 PM at 421 E. Main Street
Spots are limited — register now at: innovationcenterstoughton.org/workshops

 Saturday Kids Activity: Custom Stamp & Main Street Passport Adventure
On Saturday, May 17 from 10 AM to 3 PM, kids and families are invited to ICS for a fun and creative activity. Children will design their own rubber stamp, then explore participating Main Street businesses with an ICS Syttende Mai Passport in hand.

After collecting at least three stamps from participating local businesses, young explorers can return to ICS by 4pm to receive their laser-cut custom rubber stamp of their design to take home — combining art, local discovery, and hands-on making in one joyful experience.

 All events take place at Innovation Center Stoughton, 421 E. Main Street.

“These activities are all about blending innovation with tradition,” said ICS Executive Director, Katrina Becker. “We’re thrilled to bring something fresh to the festival while helping people—especially kids and families—connect with technology in a meaningful and fun way.”

Don’t miss your chance to celebrate Syttende Mai with a creative twist!

Follow ICS on social media or visit innovationcenterstoughton.org for more information.

Thank you to our participating businesses! Yahara Chocolate, Kismetic Studios, Ink Cap Books, Hello Art Hatchery, Gemini Games, Dairyland Dessert Cafe, Cheesers, and Becker Professional Services.