New Glarus will once again celebrate its Swiss heritage and love of polka music when the Roger Bright Memorial Polkafest returns June 12-13 in downtown New Glarus.

Polkafest also pays tribute to the late Roger Bright, a beloved New Glarus musician and bandleader whose name became closely tied to polka music across Wisconsin and the Midwest. Bright helped keep Swiss and polka traditions alive in New Glarus, and his legacy remains part of the music, dancing, and community spirit celebrated each year. 

The annual festival, held under a large tent in the heart of the village, will feature two days of live polka music, dancing, food, beverages, and family-friendly activities. Organizers say the event is designed to offer something for everyone, whether visitors are longtime polka enthusiasts or simply looking for a fun summer weekend in New Glarus.

Festivities begin Friday evening with a performance by the David Austin Band from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. The band will pay tribute to the late Roger Bright, whose influence on New Glarus polka music remains well known throughout the community. Visitors will also have an opportunity to win tickets to Saturday's Beer, Bacon & Cheese event during a drawing scheduled for 9 p.m.