The following article was in the Kutztown University's publication the Keystone

Follow this link to article published in the Keystone about the 2005 Harvest Fescht.

The Fescht's purpose was to educate attendees on the history and culture of Pennsylvania German lifestyles. An admission fee of $5 was charged for visitors over 12 years old.

Authentic crafts, folk life demonstrations, live music, farm animals and antique cars created the festive atmosphere that was both educational and entertaining.

Some of the educational demonstrations included hearth cooking, spinning, felting and domestic activities.

Several historic buildings were opened for tours as well. Heritage House, built in the early 19th century with local limestone, was just one of the edifices open for perusing. The 130-year-old Freyberger School, an authentically restored one room schoolhouse, was home to author Dennis Boyer's performance of a one-man skit reflecting life in the Old Northwest Territory. A restored farmhouse and warehouse were also open to visitors. On display, a rebuilt 18th century log cabin housed a collection of antique carpenters' tools.

More than 15 artists were on hand with their crafts and work displayed. The handcrafted art demonstrated were basket weaving, pottery, barn star painting and date stone carving.

Dressed in Victorian-era costumes, "The High Wheelers" rode antique-style bicycles around the property.

Harvest Fescht offered an array of exhibits to visitors of all ages. Geared just for children, younger guests could learn to make butter, tin ornaments and quilts. The olden game of "hoop and stick" - where players guide a wooden hoop across the ground with a stick - was also demonstarted.

Also,Carl Mengeltoured his goat-pulled cart throughout the festival grounds, on which children were allowed to ride.

Non-profit organizations such as the Reading Berks Guild of Crafters, the Grundsau Lodge, the Weisenberg Lowhill Township Historical Society, the Pastorius House and representatives from the Berks County Graveyard preservation attended the event to hand out information about their organizations.