Erntedankfest – A German Harvest Celebration

 

Join us for Erntedankfest, the traditional German Thanksgiving festival, at historic Old Economy Village! Originally celebrated in rural communities where farmers gave thanks for a bountiful harvest and took a well-earned rest, Erntedankfest is a time to honor the rhythms of the season, the fruits of the land, and the hard work of a farming year.

This immersive event brings history to life with live demonstrations, hands-on activities, artisan skills, and delicious seasonal food and drink — perfect for the whole family!

 

What to Expect

Live Demonstrations & Traditional Skills
Experience the sights, sounds, and smells of fall as our talented interpreters and craftspeople demonstrate historic trades and seasonal tasks:

• Bake Oven & Hearth Cooking

• Blacksmithing

• Woodworking

• Spinning & Flax Processing

• Sauerkraut Making

• Historic Printing Press

• Village Tours

• Linoprinting

• Ambridge Fire Trucks

• Cider Making – Apple & New This Year: Pear Cider!

Watch and taste traditional cider pressing in action! This year, we're excited to introduce pear cider, made with fruit generously donated by Dennis Lapic and the Heslet House.

 

Family-Friendly Crafts
Stop by the Sweetwater Center for the Arts SweetRide van and make your own beaded corn craft — a perfect take-home memory for kids and adults alike!

 

Free tours at Saint John's from 10:00 to 4:00. Learn more about the Harmonists Religious practices!

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Flax Remediation Lecture at 10:00 

 

Vendors, Food, & More

Local Artisans & Vendors
Browse a curated selection of handcrafted goods, including soap, jewelry, seasonal decor, and more.

 

German Food & Seasonal Treats
Enjoy delicious fare from PJ’s Catering, offering classic German dishes that pair perfectly with the season. Beverages
Relax with a drink from Fritzgibbon Meadery and Mozzotta Winery, featuring meads and wines to toast the harvest.

 

Educational Opportunities
Learn about fall and winter gardening, bee keeping, printmaking, and other heritage skills that prepared communities for winter.

Why Visit?

Erntedankfest is more than just a festival — it’s a celebration of heritage, community, and the harvest season. Whether you're exploring artisan traditions, sampling fresh cider, or simply soaking in the festive atmosphere, this event offers something for everyone.

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