Julebyen, Knife River’s annual Christmas Festival, is going virtual this year. Expect the local goodies and celebrations with the addition of a family-friendly hike.

Starting on Friday, join in a self-guided walk along the Knife River hiking trail.

Start at the Shilhon trailhead at the end of Shilhon Road. Head toward the lower trail outlet on Shilhon Road, which heads north from the Highway 61 Expressway above Knife River.

Keep your eyes peeled for trolls and an obstacle course along the 0.9-mile Hidden Folk Trail. You’ll eventually arrive at a bin of edible and biodegradable ornaments and a tree awaiting decorations.

The Hidden Folk Trail is open Dec. 4 through Jan. 1.

Along the way, enjoy a tale written by Scandinavian story-teller Lise Lunge-Larsen .

The Julebyen online market is open now, and locally sourced and handmade goods are on tap: Pickled beet, jellies and james from Chelsea Morning Farm or Sarah Flicek 's jewelry or Yker Acres holiday boxes packed with meat.

There's also a virtual authors and illustrators "book tent," featuring works by Amy Pendino , Kari Vick and more.

Julebyen (pronounced yule-eh-be-en) is a Scandinavian and German heritage tradition featuring decorations, gifts, food and celebration. The tradition is centuries old, and Knife River has hosted the area event since 2013.

Visit Julebyen.us for more information, or contact Carl Ojard Carlson at 218-834-5950 or carolojardcarlson@gmail.com .

If you “go”

What: Knife River Julebyen Scandinavian Christmas festival

When/where: online now at Julebyen.us ; Hidden Folk Trail is open Friday through Jan. 1, start at the end of Shilhon Road in Knife River.

More info: julebyen.us