Ephraim, Wis. (June 24, 2026) – The Ephraim Business Council extends its sincere thanks to everyone who helped make the 61st Fyr Bal Festival a wonderful celebration of the start of the summer season. From family-friendly activities and live entertainment to the ceremonial bonfire along Eagle Harbor, the festival once again showcased the strong sense of community that makes Ephraim a special place to visit and call home.
Attendees enjoyed a full day of activities and entertainment throughout the festival. The popular cherry pie and ice cream eating contests drew record breaking crowds, while children’s activities on the lawn at Ephraim Shores Resort provided music, crafts, and fun, including the Door County Bookmobile, for the youngest Fyr Bal attendees. Artisan vendors offered a diverse selection of handmade goods and experiences, from succulent creations to henna body art. Festivalgoers also enjoyed a wide variety of food options, including the Ephraim Fire Department’s famous brats, along with tacos, barbecue, fresh doughnuts, shawarma, and other delicious treats from local vendors.
The young Scandinavian Dancers kicked off the beloved Chieftain Ceremony and created a memorable moment when they selected members of the audience to come up on stage and participate in their traditional dance performance. B.D. Thorp was announced as the 61st Fyr Bal Chieftain and escorted to the main stage by a troop of Viking boys. Thorp, whose family goes back three generations in Ephraim, was honored for his involvement in the preservation of the Village, including painting over the graffiti on the iconic Anderson Dock building. He also has served on multiple municipal committees and volunteered with the Ephraim Moravian Church. After the ceremony, Thorp made his way to the shore of Eagle Harbor where he lit the towering bonfire. Zephyr Ciesar then led a Nordic Neon Dance Party that had attendees, both young and old, dancing amongst the glowing bubbles. The day’s festivities came to a sparkling close with a spectacular fireworks show above Eagle Harbor.
The Ephraim Business Council looks forward to celebrating the 62nd Fyr Bal festival on Saturday, June 19, 2027.
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