The 45th Annual Kalona Historical Village Fall Festival is returning this weekend, and Director Nancy Roth says people can expect all of the things that have made the festival popular in years past. She says in addition to being a fun time, it has also served as a time for family gatherings and class reunions. Activities include: tours of the 12 historical buildings, two museums, and two quilt galleries; working demonstrations, including butter churning and blacksmithing; wine sampling from area wineries; live entertainment, including the Mid-Prairie High School band; and Mike Zahs and the Brinton Films.

Roth emphasized the importance of the festival to the city’s economy. It’s one of the biggest fundraisers for the Historical Village and Mennonite Society, as well as for the food vendors. She added, “We want to bring people to the Kalona area, and show them what is so special about our area and why people enjoy coming here.” The Fall Festival runs Friday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information and a list of activities, visit KalonaIowa.org or listen to the In Touch with Southeast Iowa interview with Roth at KCIIRadio.com.