Heritage Night highlights the community through food, entertainment, and family camaraderie. The first Heritage Night was held in the early 1970’s, in conjunction with Viterbo University (then “Viterbo College”). The event had a German dinner in Marian Hall, followed by the Marine Band in the Fine Arts Center and a couple of other entertainment acts. In the beginning there were about four food vendors. As Viterbo grew, the event was moved to the La Crosse Center, where it is held today. Traditionally a big name entertainer (i.e. Paul Anka, Andy Williams) was brought in for the “arena” and about 10 vendors were in the “exhibition hall.” Today, food and entertainment can be found in both halls.
Local nonprofit groups participate by hosting a booth and showcasing their culinary abilities for attendees to purchase. Food choices range from authentic German dishes to Russian Borscht and Norwegian Lefse, to Irish and Native American dishes. The nonprofit groups keep their earnings to support their community causes. Some of the original vendors are still participating in Heritage Night; St. Elias Orthodox Church, Logan Show Choir Parent Organization, Zion Evangelical Church, and St. Thomas More Church.
Entertainment is also abundant during Heritage Night. Non-stop performances by local dance groups, show choirs, and school and local bands can be heard throughout the evening. Each group receives a stipend donation for their time and effort during Heritage Night.
This great family event draws in 1500 to 2000 people every year to the La Crosse Center.
Wednesday, September 28, 2011 from 4:00pm – 9:00pm
At the La Crosse Center
Admission $5
Arena Entertainment Host: Amy DuPont
Exhibition Hall Entertainment Host: Rick Pervisky "Dr. Rock"
Entrance Band: Oktoberfest Singers (4-7 pm)
| Time |
2011 Heritage Night Entertainment |
Location |
| 4:15—4:45 PM |
Riverfront Singers
|
Arena |
| Grumpy Old Men |
Exhibition Hall |
| 4:45—5:15 PM |
Amanda's Dance Academy |
Arena |
| Grumpy Old Men |
Exhibition Hall |
| 5:30—6:00 PM |
UW-L Concert Choir and Vocal Jazz Ensemble |
Arena |
| Village Dancers |
Exhibition Hall |
| 6:15—6:45 PM |
Happy Twirlers Square Dancers |
Arena |
| Apple Annies |
Exhibition Hall |
| 6:45—7:00 PM |
Announcements & Introductions of the Oktoberfest Royal Family |
Arena & Exhibition Hall |
| 7:00—7:30 PM |
Onalaska High School Pan Project
|
Arena |
| Click'n & Grin'n Cloggers |
Exhibition Hall |
| 7:45—8:15 PM |
Central High School Show Choir "Grand Central Station" |
Arena |
| The Fat Daddies |
Exhibition Hall |
| 8:15—8:45 PM |
Onalaska High School Show Choir "Hilltoppers" |
Arena |
| The Fat Daddies |
Exhibition Hall |
| 2011 Heritage Night Food Vendors |
| Bantry International Friendship Association |
La Crosse Three Rivers Pow Wow Committee |
| Causeway Interfaith Volunteer Caregivers |
Logan Show Choir Parent Organization |
| Central High Debate Team |
North Presbyterian Church |
| Coulee Region R.S.V.P. |
Our Savior's Lutheran Church |
| German International Relations Committee |
PIE - Partners in Empowerment |
| La Crosse Citizen Advocacy |
St. Elias Orthodox Church |
| La Crosse Dubna Friendship Association |
St. Thomas More Church |
| La Crosse Lions Club |
Western Foods Program |
| |
Zion Evangelical Church |
The 2011 Heritage Night Sponsor is Festival Foods
