Students at Episcopal Day School took a day trip to Norway, Denmark and Sweden during the school's annual International Day celebration last Wednesday.

The event immersed students in the food, culture, history and traditions of the Scandinavian countries.

Students ate things like Danish pastries and Swedish meatballs.

"It's real hands-on stuff," said event coordinator Laura Goodman.

Students met a real Viking, took a virtual tour of the three countries, listened to fairy tales by Hans Christian Andersen, made beaded necklaces, wore Viking helmets and even did some 'ice' fishing.

International Day was a culmination of a yearlong study by the students.

Students also learned about Norse mythology and the Dalecarlian or Dala Horse, a wooden horse statuette that began as a toy but has become a symbol of Sweden.

In all, students visited 15 booths.

EDS fifth-graders completed the afternoon with a play featuring traditional Scandinavian folk music and fairy tales, like "The Three Billy Goats Gruff."

Teacher Suzanne Bennett, who helped organize the event, said it was a real learning experience for everyone.

"We (adults) learned a lot about Scandinavia, and I bet if you asked any of the children, they will tell you they learned a lot too," she said.

Bennett credited the EDS staff and teachers as well as many dedicated parents for a great day.

"It takes a lot of volunteers to make this a successful event."

Contact Tom Embrey at 693-2473 or by e-mail at tembrey@thepilot.com.