Festgoers find plenty of fun

By SARA SYVERSON

Journal Staff Writer

NEW ULM -- First time goers to Heritagefest seem pleased with their experience as the first weekend of the fest draws to a close Sunday evening.

Heritagefest continues next weekend at the Brown County Fairgrounds.

"Tremendous fun," said first time Heritagefest-goer Jim Jennings, of Eagle Lake, "I love the three tents. They need more of this to set the world back on track. It's a real plus for New Ulm."

Jennings wife, Joyce said, "It's well worth it. I'm glad we came. We've lived in the Eagle Lake and Mankato area for years and can't believe we've never come. I'm glad we made it."

Wayne and Pia Heiselman, of Madison, also said it was their first year here. Wayne met his wife, Pia while he was stationed in Germany in the Army.

"I like it (Heritagefest), "said Heiselman, "They could have more imported German beer and German food, but it's pretty nice -- we enjoy it."

Charles and Jan Benson, first time Heritagefest-goers arrived Saturday from Minneapolis.

"I've enjoyed it," said Jan, "We've seen all the arts and crafts area and listened to the entertainment. We'll possibly be back sometime -- that's not too bad for a group of Scandinavians."

Her husband, Charles said, "Whoever did the flowers did a wonderful job."

Another couple who was traveling with the Bensons, Donald and Bev Erickson, also said it was their first time here for the festival in New Ulm.

"I think it's very well organized," said Bev, "I think it would be nice if they had an area of German heritage things for demonstrations ... German food (making) and arts (making)."

Not only does Heritagefest draw newcomers but it continues to draw people to come to celebrate year after year, as well.

One couple, Bill and Eva Thomas, of Mankato, said they have not missed one Heritagefest since it began 26 years ago. Eva is originally from Germany and she turned 19 years old when her family took a boat over from Germany to America.

"Yeah, we've been here every year," said Eva, "I like the music at Heritagefest-- especially the Concord Singers."

Heritagefest Executive Director Leo Berg said that things are going very well this year so far.

"It's going very good," said Berg, "The bands are full of energy ... they seldom get heat like this in Europe."

A highlight today will be a Tuba Mania parade with over 100 tubas which will occur on the grounds today and a concert will be held at 2:30 p.m. on the grounds, Berg said.

A finale concert with all of the bands will be held at 10:30 p.m in the Rosen tent on the grounds. The band will play the national anthems of the countries and also several numbers will be done at that time.