Amana Colonies Wurst Festival starts Friday

AMANA — The seventh annual Amana Colonies Wurst Festival will be held in the historical Amana Colonies this Friday and Saturday.

This year, come early to enjoy the Wurst Kickoff Party Ever on Friday from 5 to 8 p.m., featuring grilled brats and a beer tent. The Sunrunners will be playing and admission is free for this event.

On Saturday, gates open at 11 a.m. Check out all the local and regional sausage makers competing to be the First in Wurst. Cool off at the beer tent with local made beer, wine, and soda while enjoying music from Brad & Kate and more performers. Live music is from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Even the kids can join in on the fun at Kinderplatz, located near the Colonies Medical Clinic. There is the Dachshund Scavenger Hunt, where you can win a free soda from Millstream Brewing Co. if you can find the hidden dogs at participating businesses. There also will be Wurst crafts and games from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The annual Dachshund Derby will take place at 5 p.m. at the Market Barn. The fastest wiener dog will receive a $100 Amana Colonies certificate.

Cost on Saturday is $5, with children under 12 free. Or, Join the alumni from Iowa’s Wurst University for $20. Tuition includes a Wurst University shirt, meal plan tickets and an official diploma from Dean Wiener himself.

For a complete list of activities at Amana Colonies Wurst Festival, visit amanacolonies.com/things-to-do/festivals or call (319) 622-7622.