Demonstrations will run the gamut from farming and gardening to churches and weddings. Other exhibits will focus on Pennsylvania-Dutch dialect and folklore, spinning and weaving, country cooks, blacksmiths, furniture, candles, and more. The Quilt Barn will display 1,000 locally handmade quilts and wallhangings on display and for sale during the entire festival. In addition to quilting demonstrations, quilt lovers are expected to come from around the world to attend the opening day auction of 30 prize-winning quilts. The Festival is also known for its great food, much of it prepared in the Pennsylvania Dutch fashion.
Visitors can watch an ox roasting on the spit before enjoying an ox roast platter or sandwich.
Or, visitors can buy a loaf of bread as it comes out of an 18th century oven or stop at a farmer s market where they can purchase sausages, cheeses and baked goods. For the children there are special rates and special events such as the Children s Farmyard Theater, a horse-drawn carousel and a petting zoo. The Festival features special programs for seniors as well. New to this year s event is the spectacle of hot-air balloons and an expanded selection of acts on the Festival s concert stage. The Festival s Quilt Barn features a display of over 1,000 quilts and wallhangings.