About Us

July 5, 1965, marked the very first Alpenfest, originally known as The Alpine Festival.

At the time, U.S. Plywood was building a particle board plant in Gaylord. The manufacturing process had been developed and patented by Swiss businessman Fred Fahrni. This new plant brought jobs to the area and created a strong market for local aspen and pine, which were used to produce Novaply.

The community embraced this new chapter and came together to celebrate. Groups created pins, Alpine hats, and dirndls in preparation for the festivities, while local businesses decorated their storefronts with Swiss-inspired displays.

The Alpine Festival was an instant success, bringing people together in a meaningful way. Nearly 60 years later, that same community spirit continues as Alpenfest carries on the tradition.