Swiss Fest

If you are looking for something to do this weekend near the Twin Cities, head to the Berne Swissfest. (Below clipped from their webpage)

Berne Swissfest, Minnesota, USA (54th annual)
The Charm of an Old World Festival, Family Entertainment at its best!
Saturday and Sunday August, 4th/5th 2007

Once a year the descendants of the Swiss settlers bring Berne back to life. More than a thousand visitors come to see the festival each August, conceived as a means of keeping the Swiss heritage alive and vital. Visitors come from many states and even some foreign countries to see this Swiss Festival.

Family features:
Historical Village
Fahnenschwingen (Flag Throwing)
Steinstossen (Stone Throwing)
Bauernmalerei (Box Painting)
Kinder Corner
- William Tell
- Swiss Story Telling
- Sackgumpen (Sack Races)
Bobbin Lace Making
Bratzel Making

Entertainment:
Swiss Alphorn (104 kB)
Swiss Dancing
Handbell Concerts
Style Show
Swiss Yodeler
Stage Programs
Swiss Band
There are continuous activities throughout the day before and after each program.

Special Guest Entertainer from Switzerland:
Astrid Schuler - a very popular Jodlerin - Schwyz, Switzerland
Pius Egli - accordionist, accompanist - Horw, Switzerland
Guest Woodcarver from Switzerland
Mario Fuchs - Hofstetten, Switzerland. A very gifted woodcarver.

There will be many other craft people demonstrating Bauernmalerei painting, bobbin lace making, using a spinning wheel, scissor cutting and other special craft.

Food fair - Traditional Swiss Entrees:
Hot Meals
Raclette
Fancy Desserts
Swiss Pastries
Breads
Swiss Cheese
Berner Platte, famous Bern platter will be served in the food tent on Saturday from 5:00 until 7:30 p.m.

American Entrees:
Bratwurst
Toasted Raviolis
Beverages
Cheese Curds
Hot Potato Salad
Soft Serve

Opening hours:
Saturday August, 4th 2007 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Sunday August, 5th 2007 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Sunday Special Special Swiss-American Sunday Worship Service 10:00 a.m.

Admission:
Adults $ 4.00
Children - 12 and under $ 2.00
Families $ 10.00
Pre-school free
Parking free

Contact:
by mail: Berne Swissfest, 23148 County Highway 24, West Concord, Minnesota 55985
by phone: 1-800-322-2478 (toll free)
by e-mail: bernechurch @ pitel . net