Of all the performances we do, Swiss Fest is probably best known as our trademark event of the year, having been held almost every year since the chorus' inception in 1963.

Held in the Grand Hall of Monroe's Turner Hall, the program consists of traditional Swiss folk music and entertainment that audiences look forward to year after year. In addition to choral selections performed by the Monroe Swiss Singers, and our companion organizations from New Glarus, the Männerchor New Glarus and the New Glarus Yodel Club, there is accordion music, Swiss flag-throwing, Talerschwingen (Swiss coin-rolling), alphorn music and yodeling. Other performers who will be joining us on stage are John Wegmueller and Vincent Peterson on the Swiss button box (Schwyzerörgerli); accordion duets by Heinz Mattmann and John Wegmueller; a skit about a Bavarian woodcutter and a Swiss Langnauerli player, and others.

Another highlight of this year's program will be the introduction of the new 2008 Green County Cheese Days Ambassador as well as the unveiling of the event's new logo.

Following the program itself is an old-time dance, which this year will be played by the ever-popular Greg Anderson Band. At the very first Swiss Fest in 1963, the Jack Busch Orchestra of Cuba City, Wisconsin played the dance.

Also, before and following the program, the Turner Hall Ratskeller will offer a special ala carte menu featuring Swiss cuisine.

Some things have changed about Swiss Fest over the past four decades. In the 1960's, much of the program was presented in Swiss...not only music, but skits and jokes too...because many people in our area still spoke and understood the language. Our audiences now, while still appreciative and supportive of our rich Swiss heritage, consist of very few people who still know Swiss. Consequently, we do more translating and explaining to our audiences, which makes our performances not only entertaining, but educational too!

And, in true Swiss Fest fashion, there are always a few little shenanigans too! You can't leave without a smile on your face!

General seating advance sale tickets are $7 and are available in the Turner Hall Ratskeller, by calling 608-325-3461, or from any Monroe Swiss Singer. The at-the-door price is $10. Ticket prices include the program and the dance. The price is $1 for students K-12, and pre-schoolers are admitted free with an adult. Doors open at 1:15 p.m. Admission for the dance only is $7.