THE SCANDINAVIAN ATHLETIC CLUB

THE SCANDINAVIAN ATHLETIC CLUB post thumbnail image

What stands today was not commercially developed—it was built by the community itself. Members constructed soccer fields and running tracks by hand, repurposed a barn into locker rooms, and funded improvements through grassroots efforts—down to selling traditional Swedish foods like pickled herring sandwiches.

While deeply rooted in history, SAC Park is fully equipped to support modern events:

  • Flexible indoor and outdoor event configurations
  • Event coordination support
  • Cash bar services
  • Space for entertainment, dining, and activities
  • Adaptable layouts for weddings, parties, and corporate functions


THE CLUB



THE
DOMEROOM


THE PAVILLION

Founded in 1924 by Swedish immigrants in nearby Worcester, the club began as a soccer-driven gathering place for a growing Scandinavian community seeking connection, identity, and belonging. By 1928, members purchased land on Lake Street in Shrewsbury—laying the foundation for what would become a century-long institution.

In 1929, the now-iconic wood-domed dance pavilion was added, transforming SAC Park into not just an athletic hub, but a cultural center where generations have gathered. Many local families trace their stories back to dances held under its timber-framed roof.

Today, SAC Park remains one of the last enduring Scandinavian community spaces in the region—what members have called “the last outpost” for Scandinavian-American culture in Central Massachusetts.


Located in
Shrewsbury, MA



SOCIAL EVENTS


HISTORICAL

THE PAVILLION:
A Living Community
Space.

SAC Park continues to function as both a private event venue and an active community hub. At a time when many cultural clubs have closed due to cost and declining membership, SAC Park remains active—because it continues to serve a real purpose:
providing a place for people to gather, celebrate, and belong.

VIEW

  • Experiences Rooted in Tradition

    Dance & Social Gatherings Dance has been central to SAC Park since its earliest days. From historic social dances to modern country line dancing events, the tradition continues—bringing people together in the same space where generations before them met, celebrated, and built relationships.

  • Scandinavian Athletic Club Celebrates 100 years

    SHREWSBURY | Nov 30, 2024 – The Scandinavian Athletic Club (SAC) is saying “tack så mycket” for an eventful 100 years. The SAC calls 438 Lake St. in Shrewsbury home, and for the last century, the group has offered an important common space for the Central Mass. Scandinavian community. On Sept. 28, SAC members celebrated…

Community Programs

Youth soccer programs and local team practices still take place on the grounds.


Annual traditions like Midsummer celebrations and holiday festivals bring the community together

Cultural events preserve Scandinavian
music, dance, and food traditions.

Multi-generational membership ensures
continuity and stewardship