The annual Swiss Days festival in Midway returns this weekend, serving as a key tradition for the growing city to maintain its small-town roots and Swiss heritage. The event, which has evolved from a local farmer's market 79 years ago into one of the state's most attended craft markets, features a weekend of community activities and handmade goods.
Festival Logistics and Growth
The Swiss Days market is scheduled to operate from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. As the event has grown, the city has implemented a free shuttle service to address parking issues caused by visitor vehicles overrunning the town's small streets.
A Tradition of Volunteerism
The festival is entirely managed by volunteers each year. While the city could hire companies for manual labor, organizers maintain that sourcing food from local farmers and relying on volunteers preserves the event's heart. Many local youth and teenagers assist by setting up tents, putting up parking lot barricades, or running scone stands.
Handmade Vendor Standards
To maintain the festival's unique character, all vendors must offer handmade products. While more than 300 vendors apply for participation, the final selection is limited to approximately 160 booths through a jurying process.
Preserving Swiss Heritage
The festival aims to honor the history of the Swiss settlers who founded Midway. Traditions include Swiss and German musical entertainment, Swiss food options such as the iconic lemon yodel, and the Swiss Miss royalty program for local youth girls.
Community Connection
Aja Phillips, who joined the Swiss Days committee 16 years ago, noted that the event provides a rare opportunity for residents to connect with their community. She observed that while many people leave for the Labor Day weekend, many others choose to embrace the festivities and the community connection they provide.
Maintaining Small-Town Identity
The event remains a central part of Midway's identity despite the city's rapid growth. Local organizers emphasize that by keeping traditions such as the volunteer-led structure, the town maintains its respect for its heritage and its small-town character.
