For the seventh year in a row, a unique holiday tradition is back for Minnesota families: the lefse drive‑thru operated by longtime lefse maker Kim Englund. Each Saturday morning from November 7 through the Christmas holidays, the modest deer‑stand‑turned‑drive‑thru on County Rd 1 north of Evansville opens its windows from 10 a.m. to noon, offering fresh packs of Norwegian flatbread for $6.
From Deer Stand to Holiday Staple
Kim, who has been preparing lefse for years, first sold her flatbread at Christmas vendor shows. When the pandemic shut down those events, she and her husband repurposed a nearby deer stand into a seasonal drive‑thru. The quick‑service model lets busy families pick up a pack of three lefse without leaving their cars, preserving the holiday ritual while respecting modern schedules.
A Family‑Focused Tradition
Many Minnesotans grew up with lefse on the holiday table, often served with butter and white sugar rolled inside the soft, potato‑based tortilla‑like bread. Some families add brown sugar, jelly, or cinnamon; a few even experiment with savory fillings such as beef or eggs. Kim’s drive‑thru provides a convenient way for those who love the taste but lack the time or skill to make it from scratch.
“We’ve been doing this for seven years now,” Kim said to KARE 11. “It takes a lot of preparation—making lefse every night to have enough for Saturday—but it’s worth it to see families gather around a shared tradition.”
Supporting Local Economy and Community
The lefse stand not only sustains a family‑run business but also reinforces the region’s cultural heritage. By keeping the tradition alive, Kim contributes to the local economy, drawing visitors from surrounding towns who might also stop at nearby farms, diners, or craft shops.
Local residents appreciate the convenience and the sense of continuity. “My family has been making lefse for generations, and now we can pick up a fresh pack without the whole kitchen mess,” said one shopper. “It’s a small thing, but it makes the holidays feel more like home.”
Practical Details
The drive‑thru operates only on Saturdays, from 10 a.m. to noon, beginning November 7, 2026. It is located off County Rd 1, north of Evansville, which lies northwest of Alexandria along Highway 94. Customers should expect a short line, especially during the first few weeks, as word spreads about the seasonal offering.
Kim prepares the lefse the night before each Saturday, ensuring the flatbreads are warm and pliable. Each pack contains three pieces, perfect for sharing or gifting. Payment is accepted in cash or by card.
Keeping the Holiday Spirit Alive
In a time when many holiday customs have shifted to digital or fast‑food alternatives, the lefse drive‑thru stands as a reminder of the value of hands‑on, family‑centered traditions. It offers a tangible connection to Norwegian roots while celebrating the broader Minnesota community’s love of simple, home‑cooked flavors.
Whether you’re a lifelong lefse enthusiast or a newcomer curious about the treat, the drive‑thru provides an easy, festive way to add a taste of heritage to your holiday celebrations.
Original reporting: News Talk 1340 KROC-AM – News and Talk – Rochester News Radio — read the source article.
