Midway Swiss Days takes place on Friday and Saturday over Labor Day weekend every year and draws tens of thousands of visitors and vendors from all parts of the country to mix, mingle, and enjoy the wares, food, and activities. With two fun-filled days, be sure to bring some comfortable shoes so you can explore all the booths and food vendors. The fun goes all day Friday and Saturday.

Shop ‘Til You Drop
The Midway Town Square houses well over 100 unique craft booths. The vendors spend countless hours preparing for this annual event and decorating their booths to fit the Swiss theme. Vendor booths offer one-of-a-kind items for home décor, clothing, photography, art, wood working, and lots more. Whether shopping for yourself, your family, or for a fun gift, you are sure to find some great treasures at Swiss Days. And, in more recent years, the festival has grown so much that neighboring businesses in the area participate with their storefront locations just off Midway Town Square – allowing for even more shopping fun. At this event, you really can shop ‘til you drop! 

Good Times with Good Eats
The FOOD! This is reason enough to experience Swiss Days in all its glory. At Midway Town Square, you will find many traditional Swiss dishes including knockwurst sandwiches, Bratzeli cookies, Zopf (a braided Swiss bread), ham and Swiss sandwiches, and don’t forget the lemon yodel – a whole new spin on lemonade! Midway Swiss Days also has several of their own favorite recipes that are served up fresh, including Swiss tacos (essentially a Navajo taco), scones, Swiss chicken sandwiches, and Swiss ice. (Please note, all food vendors are CASH ONLY – so plan to bring some moolah with you.) 

Live Entertainment
Dancing, singing, and musical performances are all part of Swiss Days as well. Local talents grace the stage and join the parade to show off their artistic abilities and share their love for the arts with the community. This year the Swiss Days line-up includes talented master yodelers, the Swiss Bells, choirs, dancers, musicians, and our very own Swiss Miss Royalty. The entertainment is really the icing on the scone (or cake) providing an all-around fun and unique Swiss experience in the Heber Valley. And if you feel up for it, don your lederhosen – they are definitely a popular article of clothing during Swiss Days. 

Tips, Tricks, Dos & Recommended Don’ts

• Arrive early on Friday morning for the best parking and to get first access to the booths. But, be prepared. You will be joined by a few thousand of your shopping compatriots.
• Parking can be hard to find and expensive. Look for the parking shuttle as a smart and affordable parking option. There really isn’t “front row” parking at this event. The shuttle is the best way to get to and from.
• All food vendors are CASH ONLY – so plan to bring money with you. Small bills preferred. ATM machines will be onsite as well.
• Wear comfortable, closed-toed shoes and light, breathable clothing. It will be crowded and it does get hot. And carry water to stay hydrated.
• If you have an infant, bring a baby carrier – NOT a stroller. Navigating the packed walk paths is very difficult with a stroller. Save yourself the hassle and headache and pack your little on in a carrier instead.
• If you bring younger kids, look for the dedicated children’s area with a bounce house and climbing wall. It is a fun and safe area for them to use up some energy and have a great time at Swiss Days.
• In previous years, Swiss Days has offered a package drop off option. Look for this location to hold your items while you continue perusing through the booths. This service is well-loved by veteran Swiss Day shoppers.
• If you get too hot or tired, sit under any of the multiple shaded areas and take a break. Plenty of food vendors will be onsite both days.
• No dogs are allowed as this is not a dog-friendly venue or event. Please leave your furry friends at home. (Certified service animals are an exception.)

 
Additional Festivities
The Swiss Days festival also includes a 10k and fun run, a chuckwagon breakfast, and a parade on Saturday.

If you plan on staying the weekend, the world-renowned annual Soldier Hollow Classic Sheepdog Championship is a great event that runs from Friday, September 3rd through Monday, September 6th at the Soldier Hollow Nordic Center. Come witness the world’s top sheepdogs and handlers as they show the true meaning behind “man’s best friend” and the special bond between canine and trainer.

Stay Updated: Keep an eye on the Swiss Days Facebook page for ongoing updates about this year’s festival: www.facebook.com/midwayswissdays

Previous Blog Posts:
Nightlife in Heber Valley
Arts & Culture in Heber Valley