Times Advocate, 1994-8-31, Page 21VIF.WFIN!)F.R
Times -Advocate, August 31, 1994 Page 21
29th Annual Bean Festival turns village into a city for one weekend a year
Favourable turnout
at 29th bean festival
The streets of Zurich were lined
with cars and people as thou-
sands arrived in Zurich for festival
Story and photos by
Catherine O'Brien
T -A staff
ZURICH - The weather on Saturday was perfect for a family out-
ing and the Zurich Bean Festival was the logical choice.
The streets of Zurich were filled early with crowds of people and
vendors at the 29th annual bean festival.
While there was some entertainment Friday night with the midway
opening, a car cruise show, fireworks and a dance; the official open-
ing wasn't until Saturday at noon.
But crowds arrived before noon to take part in a pancake and sau-
sage bteakfast and to tour the car show.
As well musicians and cloggers entertained before opening cer-
emonies.
Huron -Bruce MP Paul Steckle was among the dignitaries at the
opening. Steckle did double duty, having a bit of fun as one of the
attractions at a dunk tank.
Other attractions included bands such as Positively Stompin, chil-
dren entertainers Mr. Monkin Belly and the Amazing Biff, Dr. Wal -
lace's Frog Jumping Contest, fire-eater Bwana Moto, along with bin-
go and plenty of home cooked beans.
With 2,200 pounds of beans ready, no one had to worry abouf be-
ing hungry in Zurich. And for those who may have had their fill of
beans over the years, there were plenty of other vendors set up with
an assortment of foods.
The event wrapped up Saturday night with the annual Zurich Mi-
nor Athletic Association Bean Festival Dance.
For those feeling musical, there were a number of bands per-
forming. At right, Stephanie Dietrich of Zurich helps out during
the performance of London band African Roots. Below and fur-
ther right is local band Positively Stompin' and on left is Jamie
Beal of St. Joseph's and Jason Neeb of Zurich who opted to
spend their time looking at antique cars.
There were plenty of
places to spend any
money that was burning
in festival goers pockets
on Saturday. On left,
Yvonne O'Brien displays
a souvenir shirt that was
available. Immediately
below Dave Fisher and
daughter Megan, of New
Hamburg, try to win a
prize at one of many
midway booths.
Liberal fortunes take plunge...
...but it's all in fun
Huron -Bruce MP Paul Steckle was in the line of fire Saturday
afternoon as he participated in the dunk tank booth. A good
size crowd gathered to help Steckle cool off on such a hot of temoon. The tank was sponsored by the Zurich mennonite
Boys Club.