Helvetia Culture Fest
Sunday, Sept. 18th, 2011
at Pacific Crest Alpacas
12995 NW Bishop Rd ; Hillsboro , OR
As a member of the Cultural Coalition of Washington County and a “Buddy” of the Helvetia Community Association, I felt welcomed the moment I walked into their 3rd annual Culture Fest held in a huge rustic decorated barn and grounds. I left feeling as if I was entertained and educated at the same time about the rich resources of this region of Washington County . There was a true sense of cultural heritage and pride in the precious natural resources there.
The original inhabitants, the Atfalati Native Americans, are now represented by the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde. I met a farmer that told me about how a particular zone on his farm has been honored for generations and not plowed. It is an ancient burial site. Tribal performers, in full costumes, sang, danced and drummed for the guests. There were young and old, who when invited, were taught a dance. Of course, I couldn’t pass it up. The drummers even blended their beats for the “all American Pie Walk” similar to “musical chairs” game and the winner get to select a pie made by a local family or a bakery.
They had Swiss Yodeling and a concert of Alp horn players celebrating this areas heritage from Germany and Switzerland .
They had a children’s arts and crafts section, meals from Helvetia Tavern, and local wines and beers. I enjoyed picking fresh produce from the farmers and picking up handcrafted goods as well such as note-cards with scenes of their vintage barns on them.
Our Coalition was mentioned in the announcements as well as in print and on their website. They were sincere in their appreciation of our grant.
I enjoyed meeting the families who attended, participated, and planned this event. Among the guests were a anthropologist and young college students studying in this field. Near the end of the event, a bluegrass band played and folks danced. Peering into the window from the field were several interested alpacas.
It was truly a celebration of our shared cultures and pride in who these neighbors were and how they are connected to Helvetia in Oregon . I have to say though, my favorite part were seeing newborn alpacas in the fields….so adorable!
Beth Self
