Warrens Cranberry Festival

Button Design Contest - Enter Today!

2012-01-19T11:13:00.000-08:00

Design the official Button for the 2013 Warrens Cranberry Festival.

Click here for a complete set of rules.

Design the button for next year's 41st Annual Festival in 2013. This button will be used for all official Festival Souvenirs, including t-shirts, festival buttons, etc.

The Festival will reveal the 2013 button design at the 2012 Cranberry Festival.

2013 Festival: September 27-29, 2013
Design must be in color
6" in diameter (round)
Entries can be hand-drawn or computer generated
You may submit up to three entries, but only one entry can win a cash prize

Adult and Youth categories of entry
Cash Prizes for both categories

2012 - January Newsletter - "The Cranfest Scoop"

2012-01-17T10:20:00.001-08:00

Click here to read this month's newsletter! The first for 2012!

In this month's issue:

Festival Volunteers are recognized

February Meeting Details

2012 Button Sale Locations & Details

2012 Membership

Donations to Date

Royalty News

Cranberry Cuisine

Calendar of Events

Cranberry Trivia

Membership Form

Volunteer Form

New Year's Cranberry Appetizers & Drinks

2011-12-30T08:49:00.000-08:00

There is only one more day left until the end of the year...and with that evening comes parties, celebrations and get-to-gethers. So, here are a couple appetizer and drink recipes that are sure to give your New Year's celebration that extra kick...tart and beautiful in color, the cranberry is not just for your Thanksgiving table anymore.

Happy New Year!

Cranberry Crab 'N Cheese Appetizers
(2011 Processed Recipe Entry)

10 ounce container "Savory Garlic Cooking Creme" (found by the cream cheese)
1 tablespoon Spicy Brown Mustard
1/3 cup Celery, diced
1/3 cup Almonds, sliced and chopped
3/4 cup dried cranberries
1 cup Imitation Crab, diced
1 box Multi-Grain Crackers
Chives, dill weed, etc., optional

In a medium bowl combine cooking creme and mustard. Stir in celery, almonds, dried cranberries and crab. Refrigerate until ready to serve. Spoon a teaspoon of filling onto each cracker and garnish with fresh green herbs if desired. Yield: 2 1/2 cups - 40 crackers

Cranberry Horseradish Dip
(1990 Processed Recipe Entry)

1 cup whole Cranberry Sauce
1/2 cup Ketchup
1/4 cup Lemon juice
2 Green Onions, chopped
2 tablespoons Celery leaves, chopped
2 tablespoons prepared Horseradish
1 tablespoon prepared Mustard
1/4 teaspoon Garlic Salt

Combine all ingredients in a food processor or blender. Process until smooth. Serve with cooked, chilled Shrimp. Yields: 2 cups

Wild Cranberry Slush
(1996 Processed Recipe Entry)

1 3-ounce package raspberry Jell-O
1 cup boiling Water
2 cups cold Water
2 cups Vodka
4 cups Cranberry Juice
1 12-ounce frozen Orange Juice
1 12-ounce frozen Lemonade

Mix the above ingredients in the order listed. Pour into a 5-quart container. Freeze. To serve, place a generous scoop of slush into a glass and top with 7-Up or Ginger Ale. Yields: 5 quarts

Cranberry Lime Punch

2011-12-29T08:11:00.000-08:00

This cranberry inspired drink is sure to please all those that attend your New Year's party. Enjoy!

Cranberry Lime Punch
(1999 Processed Recipe Entry - Youth Division)

12 ounces frozen Cranberry Juice Cocktail concentrate
2 cups Water
1/2 cup fresh Lime Juice
1/4 cup granulated Sugar
5 cups Ginger Ale
1 Lime, sliced
Ice (cubed or crushed)

Combine cranberry juice cocktail, water, lime juice and sugar in a punch bowl or large pitcher. Stir until sugar dissolves. Stir in Ginger Ale, lime slices and ice. Serve immediately.

Cranberry Vodka

2011-12-28T08:36:00.000-08:00

Here is another drink recipe inspired by that tart little fruit, that is sure to be a hit at your New Year's party.

Cranberry Vodka
(1992 Fresh Recipe Contest Entry)

5 cups of fresh or frozen whole Cranberries
Rind of 2 Oranges, cut into strips
2 1/4 cups Water
1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
2 cups Vodka

Combine the cranberries, orange rind, water and sugar in a large heavy saucepan. Bring to a boil, stirring often to dissolve the sugar. Cool completely. Mix in the vodka. Cover the cranberry mixture and let stand for 2 days at room temperature. Strain cranberry mixture through a sieve. Fill glasses with ice and cranberry vodka and serve. This mixture will keep one month - be sure to refrigerate.

Yield: 5 cups

Hot Cranberry Swizzle

2011-12-27T11:09:00.000-08:00

With the New Year's holiday just around the bend - here is a cranberry inspired recipe that is sure to warm you right up!

Hot Cranberry Swizzle
(1992 Processed Recipe Contest Entry)

3/4 cup Brown Sugar
1 cup Water
1/2 teaspoon Cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon Allspice
1/4 teaspoon Salt
1/4 teaspoon Nutmeg
2 16-ounce cans jellied Cranberry Sauce
2 cups Water
4 cups unsweetened Pineapple Juice
red food coloring (optional)
12 Cinnamon Sticks

Combine and mix brown sugar, water, cinnamon, allspice, salt and nutmeg in a large saucepan and heat to boiling point. With a knife, cut through jellied cranberry sauce several times to break into smaller pieces; add to the boiling mixture and return to boiling point. If necessary, beat mixture until smooth. Add remaining ingredients and simmer about 5 minutes. Serve hot in mugs with cinnamon stick stirrers.

Yields: 3 quarts

Cranberry Turtles!

2011-12-22T12:37:00.000-08:00

Christmas is just 2 days away! Here is a recipe inspired by that tart little fruit that is indiginous to the great state of Wisconsin!

Cranberry Turtles

5 oz of pecan halves
12 caramels
2 oz of Craisins
3/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

On a cookie sheet arrange pecan halves together in groups of four, with one end of each pecan meeting at a center point of each group. Place approximately nine Craisins on top of each group of pecans.

Unwrap caramels and place them in a small mixing bowl. Microwave one minute on HIGH and stir. Continue to microwave caramels in 30-second intervals until melted. Work quickly in dropping approximately 1 teaspoon of caramel mixture over the top of each nut/Craisin formation.

Place the chocolate chips in a small mixing bowl. Microwave one minute on HIGH and stir. Continue to microwave chips on HIGH in 30-second intervals until melted. Drop approximately 1 tablespoon of chocolated over the tops of the caramel/nut/Craisin formation.

Yield: 1 dozen

(past Processed Category Recipe Entry)

2011 December Newsletter - The Cranfest Scoop

2011-12-16T10:30:00.000-08:00

Click here to read this month's newsletter!

In this month's issue:

Festival seeks volunteers

Festival volunteer who has the Christmas Spirit

Monthly meeting changes

Holiday Wishes

Membership

Donations to date

Monroe County Community Service Donation

Royalty News

Cranberry Cuisine

Calendar of events

Cranberry Trivia

Membership and Volunteer forms

2011 November Newsletter

2011-11-22T07:38:00.000-08:00

Click here to read the November issue of The Cranfest Scoop.

In this month's issue:

Letter from the President

2011 Festival Overview

2011 Festival Election Results

2011 Festival Youth Volunteers

2011 Donations to Date

Royalty News

Cranberry Cuisine

Calendar of Events

Cranberry Trivia

Membership & Volunteer Forms

Cranberry Leftover Idea Recipes

2011-11-22T06:56:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving is just a few days away and we thought it would be appropriate to share some cranberry inspired recipes to use up all that leftover turkey from your holiday dinner.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Cranberry Turkey Tacos - Submitted in the 1991 Recipe Contest

Ingredients:
1 80z can jellied cranberry sauce
1/2 cup mild picante sauce
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
2 cups cooked turkey, shredded
10 taco shells
Garnishes: shredded lettuce, chopped tomatoes, chopped onion, and shredded cheese

In a medium saucepan combine cranberry sauce, picante sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, cumin and turkey. Mix thoroughly. Cook over medium heat until thickened, about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Spoon into taco shells. Top with garnishes and serve.

Yield: 5 servings

Zesty Cranberry Turkey Salad in Tortilla Cups - Submitted in the 1996 Recipe Contest

Ingredients:
2 tablespoons corn oil
1 teaspoon cumin
6 flour tortillas (7 or 8 inch)

Dressing:
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup cranberry juice cocktail
1/4 teaspoon ground red pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt

Salad:
3 cups cooked turkey
1 (5-6oz) can water chestnuts, sliced
1 cup frozen peas, thawed
3/4 cup dried cranberries
1/2 cup green pepper, chopped
1/4 cup green onions, sliced
1 medium sized orange, peeled and cut into chunks
2 tablespoons cilantro, finely chopped
Garnish: Cilantro sprigs, orange sections, and assorted lettuce leaves

Mix oil and cumin in a small bowl. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Wrap stacked tortillas in foil. Heat 5-7 minutes, until softened. Lightly brush oil mixture on both sides, then gently press each into a 10-12oz custard cup. Bake 15-20 minutes until tortillas are crisp and lightly brown. Remove tortillas from custard cup and cool on a wire rack. In a large bowl, combine all of the dressing ingredients. Add salad ingredients and toss to mix. Just before serving, spoon salad mixture into tortilla cups. Arrange on a platter garnished with cilantro, oranges and assorted lettuce.

Yield: 6 servings

Grilled Turkey Sandwiches with Stuffing and Cranberry Relish
Recipe Courtesy Emeril Lagasse, Courtesy Martha Stewart Omnimedi, Inc.

Ingredients:
5 tablespoons mayonnaise
8 thick slices of French Batard Bread (or other dense bread such as ciabatta or boule)
6 oz Emmenthaler cheese, grated
10 oz roast turkey breast, sliced
1/2 - 3/4 cup leftover Thanksgiving stuffing (optional)
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
8 tablespoons cranberry sauce
4 tablespoons butter, melted
Sweet Potato Chips, for serving (optional)

Cooking Directions:

Lay the bread on a work surface and spread a little over 1 tablespoon of mayonnaise on 4 slices of bread.

Sprinkle the cheese on half of the bread slices, top with the turkey, and season with salt and pepper. Spread 2-3 tablespoons of the stuffing over the turkey, if desired, then spread the cranberry sauce on the remaining 4 slices of bread. Close sandwiches, pressing each on tightly together. Brush both sides of the sandwich with some of the melted butter.

Heat a grill pan over medium-low heat and brush the pan with the remaining butter. Place the sandwich in the hot pan and grill for 5-8 minutes per side, pressing the top of the sandwich with another pan. The sandwich should be hot and the cheese should be melted. Continue process until all the sandwiches are grilled.

Serve immediately, with sweet potato chips if desired.

Cranberry Relish Recipes

2011-11-11T07:21:00.001-08:00

Because it is November and the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday is fast approaching we thought it would be appropriate to share some cranberry inspired recipes for that Thanksgiving favorite RELISH! So, here are some relish recipes that were entered in our Recipe Contest in past years.

Enjoy and Bon Appetit!

Cranberry-Orange Relish - Submitted in 1986

4 cups fresh cranberries
2 small oranges, quartered and seeded
1 1/2 cups sugar

Grind cranberries and oranges in a blender or food processor. Stir in sugar. Cover and store in the refrigerator or freezer until ready to serve.

Yield: 3 cups

Wild Cranberry Relish - Submitted in 1999

1/2 cup wild rice
2 cups boiling water
1 package fresh cranberries
1/2 cup frozen orange juice concentrate, thawed
1/2 cup triple sec
1 teaspoon ground nutmeg or orange zest
1 cup frozen peas, thawed
1/4 cup honey roasted walnuts, chopped
Whole walnuts & crisp lettuce leaves to garnish

Place rice and water in 2-quart microwavable dish and cover. Microwave on high 15 minutes, stirring and checking occasionally that all water has not evaporated. Wash and sort cranberries. In batches, chop in blender or food processor until cranberries are desired consistency. Blend orange juice, triple sec, and nutmeg; pour over cranberries in shallow covered dish. Just before serving, stir in wild rice, thawed peas (raw), and chopped walnuts. Spoon atop lettuce leaf and garnish with whole walnuts.

Yield: 4-5 cups

Cranberry -Apple Relish - Submitted in 1993

2 cups brown sugar, firmly packed
1/3 cup red wine vinegar
5 apples (firm and tart)
1 tabelspoon fresh ginger root
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
12 ounces fresh cranberries

Place brown sugar and vinegar in a large skillet. Bring to a boil over high heat. Pare, core and dice apples. Peel ginger root and cut into 1-inch long strips. Add apples, ginger root, and cayenne pepper. Cook 2 minutes. Add cranberries and cook until the first few burst. Reduce heat to medium. Simmer 5 minutes. Remove from heat. With a slotted spoon, transfer cranberry-apple mixture to bowl. Cook sauce until slightly thickened and reduced, about 3 minutes longer. Pour over mixture in bowl, cover and store in the refrigerator at least one day before serving, to allow flavors to develop and relish to thicken.

Yield: 10 servings

2011 October Newsletter - Warrens Cranberry Festival

2011-10-17T12:37:00.000-07:00

Click here for the October edition of The Cranfest Scoop!

In this month's newsletter:

2011 Festival Overview

2012 Button Designs

2011 Contest Winners

2011 Parade Winners

2011 List of Membership

2011 Youth Volunteers

Donations to Date

Royalty News

Cranberry Cuisine

Calendar of Events

Cranberry Trivia

Membership & Volunteer Forms

2011 Video Contest Rules

Warrens Cranberry Festival Contests!

2011-08-26T13:10:00.001-07:00

Click here for a variety of contests that you can enter to win!

2011 Contests:

Scarecrow
Biggest Berry
Video
Photography
Vegetable and Sunflower
Flower
Quilt

August Newsletter

2011-08-19T09:00:00.000-07:00

Hot off the presses! Read all about it! 2011 August Newsletter - click here for the Cranfest Scoop!

In this month's issue:

Letter and greetings from the President

Warrens Premier Night Update

Wisconsin State Fair Update

2011 Membership

Volunteers are needed for 2011!

Donations to Date

Royalty News

Cranberry Cuisine

Calendar of Events, Souveniers and Cranberry Trivia

Contests & Parade

Membership & Volunteer Forms

Warrens Premier Night A HUGE Success!!

2011-08-10T12:15:00.001-07:00

Click here to read all about the Warrens Premier Night event that occurred on August 8, 2011.

Warrens, WI will appear in an upcoming episode of the award winning television show, Discover Wisconsin. "Warrens - The Cranberry's Big Gig" will air Saturday, August 13, 2011, at 10 a.m. on Fox Sports North (FSN) and Fox Sports Wisconsin (FSW) and the same time on ComCast Sports Chicago. It also airs Sunday, August 14, 2011, at 5 p.m. on WXOW TV 19 (ABC) in La Crosse and WQOW TV 18 (ABC) in Eau Claire.

A little over 300 people attended the Warrens Premier Night at Three Bears Lodge, in Warrens, WI. There was great food, fun prizes and even a special taped message from Governor Scott Walker. Special guests included Stephanie Klett, Wisconsin's Secretary of Tourism and former host of Discover Wisconsin and Greg Smith, Broadcast Sales, Discover Wisconsin.

July Newsletter - The Cranfest Scoop

2011-07-20T11:25:00.001-07:00

The July newsletter is hot off the presses! Click here to read all about it!

In this Month's Issue:

Warrens Premier Night, August 8, 2011

August Membership Meeting rescheduled, August 9, 2011

Volunteers Are Needed

2011 Membership List

Donations to Date

Royalty News

Cranberry Cuisine

Cranberry Trivia

Calendar of Events

2011 Souvenirs

Contests & Parades

Membership & Volunteer Forms

Beautification Form

Warrens Premier Night - August 8, 2011

2011-07-19T12:12:00.000-07:00

The Village of Warrens will be featured in an upcoming episode of the award winning television show, Discover Wisconsin, "Warrens - The Cranberry's Big Gig" and everyone is invited!

Warrens Premier Night

Monday, August 8, 2011

Three Bears Resort, Warrens, WI

Cocktails & Hors d'oeuvres - 5:30 p.m

Dinner - 6:00 p.m. (Showcasing Three Bears Resort Culinary Cuisine)

Program & Door Prizes - 7:00 p.m.

$10 per person (Table Reservations for (8) eight available)

Special Guest - Stephanie Klett, WI Secretary of Tourism

Click here for your invitation!

2011 Warrens Cranberry Festival Contests

2011-07-12T13:18:00.000-07:00

The Warrens Cranberry Festival is pleased to announce there are five contests to enter.

Pictorial Cancellation Contest - Design a pictorial cancellation or postmark unique to the Warrens Cranberry Festival.

Photography Contest - Show off your photography skills for a chance to win a gift certificate or ribbon.

Vegetable & Sunflower Contest - Bring your most unusual and spectacular vegetables and sunflowers.

Flower Contest - Show off your best blooms!

Quilt & Needlework Contest - Get crafty with this sewing and needlework competition.

Click here for more information!

2011 June Newsletter - The Cranfest Scoop

2011-06-16T10:38:00.001-07:00

The June newsletter is available now. Click here to read all about it! In this month's Issue:

Festival Seeks Volunteers

Judge the 2012 Button Design

Contests & Parade Information

2011 Membership List

Festival Donations to Date

Royalty News

Cranberry Cuisine

Cranberry Trivia

Calendar of Events

2011 Souvenirs

Membership & Volunteer Forms

Beautification Grant

2011 Quilt Contest Rules

2011 Warrens Cranberry Festival Scholarship Awards

2011-06-09T08:07:00.000-07:00

The Warrens Cranberry Festival, Inc., is proud to announce the winners of its six academic scholarships for 2011. Each year the Festival awards $3,000 to local area students to aid in their achievement of higher educational goals.

This years winners are:

Heather Fleming, of Tomah, WI

Emma Heser, of Tomah, WI

Scott Kaul, of Warrens, WI

Jeannie Kortas, of Tomah, WI

Trista McGovern, of Sparta, WI

Courtney Pearson, of Warrens, WI

Click here to read all about it!

2011 May Newsletter-The Cranfest Scoop

2011-05-25T11:32:00.000-07:00

The 2011 May Warrens Cranberry Festival Newsletter is available now. Click here to read all about it! In this month's Issue:

Letter from the President

Thanks to Volunteers

2011 Warrens Craberry Festival Scholarships Awarded

Contests & Parades

Neighbor for Neighbor Food Drive Donations

Donations to Date

Warrens Elementary School PTO Donation

Royalty News

Cranberry Cuisine

Cranberry Trivia

Calendar of Events

2011 Souvenirs

2011 Membership

Volunteers Needed

Membership & Volunteer Forms

Beautification Grant

2012 Button Contest Rules

2011 Quilt & Needlework Contest Rules

2011 April Newsletter/The Cranfest Scoop!

2011-04-18T10:29:00.000-07:00

The April Warrens Cranberry Festival Newsletter is available now! Click here to read all about it! In this month's issue:

2011 Recipe Contest - April 29th Deadline Is Approaching Fast!

2011 Festival Membership

Warrens Cranberry Festival Needs Volunteers

2011 Parade Information - sign up today

Neighbor for Neighbor Food Drive Drop Off Site

Donations to Date

$3,000 Donation to the Warrens Elementary School PTO

Royalty News

2011 Souvenirs

Cranberry Cuisine

Cranberry Trivia

Calendar of Events

Membership Form & Volunteer Form

Beautification Grant

2011 Recipe Contest Rules

2012 Button Contest Rules

2011 Quilt Contest Rules

2011 Recipe Contest - Deadline to Enter is April 29, 2011

2011-04-08T12:02:00.000-07:00

Are you interested in cooking with cranberries for prizes? If your answer is yes, you can enter the 2011 Recipe Contest now! The deadline to enter is April 29, 2011. Please click here for more information.

Theme: Add the Zing...Add Cranberries!

Two categories of entry: Fresh & Processed

Friday, September 23, 2011

Warrens Cranberry Festival Office (402 Pine Street, Warrens)

10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. (judging begins at 11:30 a.m.)

Contest is open to anyone 8 years of age or older

You do not have to be a Wisconsin resident to enter

Judging based on 20% uniqueness, 10% visual presentation, 50% taste & overall quality, and 20% ease of preparation

Six top prizes: Savings bonds - Sponsored by F & M Bank, Tomah, WI & a piece of Cookware - Sponsored by Kitchen Craft/West Bend, Florida

March 2011 - The Cranfest Scoop

2011-03-25T06:42:00.000-07:00

The 2011 March Newsletter is available now. Click here to read all about it!

In this month's issue:

Contest Information
Membership Drive
Membership List
Parade Information
Neighbor for Neighbor Food Drive Drop Site
Donations to Date
Souvenir Sales
Royalty News
Cranberry Cuisine
Cranberry Trivia
Calendar of Events
Membership Form
Volunteer Form

February 2011 - The Cranfest Scoop

2011-02-28T12:33:00.000-08:00

The 2011 February Newsletter is available now. Click here to read all about it!

In this month's Issue:

Letter from the President
2011 Membership Drive
2011 List of Membership
2011 Grand & Parade Marshalls Announced
Donations to Date
2011 Souvenir Sales
Royalty News
Cranberry Cuisine
Calendar of Events
2011 Contests & Parade Forms available
Membership, Volunteer and Membership Drive Forms & Flyer

2011 Quilt & Needlework Contest Rules

2011-02-28T12:26:00.000-08:00

The 2011 Quilt & Needlework Contest Rules are available now! Click here for more information.

Show your crafty side by entering this fun contest. This contest is open to the public and it's free to enter!

6 categories of entry:

Bed Quilts
Crib Quilts
Youth Quilts, Wall Hangings, Needlework (cateogry open to anyone under the age of 18)
Wall Hangings
Unclassified, Quilted or Nonquilted
Needlework

Deadline to enter is September 1, 2011

Warrens Cranberry Festival Wants To Know Your Thoughts?

2011-02-23T11:08:00.000-08:00

Inquiring minds want to know...What is your favorite thing about the Warrens Cranberry Festival?

Is it the food, shopping or entertainment? Tell us what you think!

2011 Recipe Contest Rules Available!

2011-02-15T12:59:00.001-08:00

The Warrens Cranberry Festival 2011 Recipe Contest Rules are availalbe now! Click here for a set of rules.

Theme: Add the Zing...Add Cranberries!
Two categories of entry: Fresh & Processed
Friday, September 23, 2011
Warrens Cranberry Festival Office (402 Pine Street, Warrens)
10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. (judging begins at 11:30 a.m.)
Contest is open to anyone 8 years of age or older
You do not have to be a Wisconsin resident to enter
Judging based on 20% uniqueness, 10% visual presentation, 50% taste & overall quality, and 20% ease of preparation
Six top prizes: Savings bonds - Sponsored by F & M Bank, Tomah, WI & a piece of Cookware - Sponsored by Kitchen Craft/West Bend, Florida

Check out our website http://www.cranfest.com/ for more information

2012 Button Contest Rules Available!

2011-02-11T11:03:00.000-08:00

The Warrens Cranberry Festival is excited to announce the 2012 Button Contest Rules are now available! Click Here for a set of rules.

Theme: World's Largest Cranberry Festival - Celebrating 40 Years!
40th Annual Cranberry Festival, September 28-30, 2012
Design must be in color and should be round and 6" in diameter
The contest is open to anyone of any age
Two categories of entry: Adult and Youth
Cash Prizes are awarded for 1st and 2nd place in each category

Check out our website http://www.cranfest.com/ for more information

2011 Warrens Cranberry Festival Parade Forms

2011-02-09T05:52:00.001-08:00

The 2011 Parade Forms are available now! Click here for more information.

There are 13 categories to enter in:

Commercial (Business entries) $55 fee
Speciality
Clubs & Organizations
Service Organizations
Veterans Organizations
Draft Horses
Pleasure Horses
Automobiles (Trucks & Cars)
Tractors
Novelty - Youth & Adult Entries (cash prizes available)
Nonprofit - Youth & Adult Entries (cash prizes availabe)
Marching Bands
Royalty

Visit our website http://www.cranfest.com/ or call 608-378-4200 to request a Parade form to enter.

Warrens Cranberry Festival, Inc., Announces the 2011 Grand Marshall & Parade Marshall

2011-01-21T08:37:00.001-08:00

The Warrens Cranberry Festival, Inc., announces its 2011 Grand Marshall and Parade Marshall.

Norman Anderson, Warrens, WI - named the 2011 Warrens Cranberry Festival Grand Marshall.

Robert & Vicki Nemitz, Warrens, WI - named the 2011 Warrens Cranberry Festival Parade Marshall.

Read the entire press release online.

The Cranfest Scoop - January 2011 Newsletter

2011-01-21T07:00:00.000-08:00

The January Newsletter is available online.

In this months issue:

2011 Membership Drive
2011 Membership
Donations To Date
2011 Button Sales
Royalty News
Cranberry Cuisine
Calendar of Events
Membership Form
Volunteer Form
New Membership Flyer

Cranberry Inspirations For Your New Year's Festivities

2010-12-29T06:20:00.000-08:00

Here are a two cranberry themed drinks and an appetizer that are sure to please all your New Year's guests! Happy New Year Everyone!

Crantinis
1 cup cranberry juice cocktail
1/2 cup citrus vodka or plain vodka
1/4 cup Triple Sec or orange juice
1 teaspoon fresh lime juice
Fresh cranberries, if desired Lime slices, if desired

Fill martini shaker or 3 cup covered container half full with ice. Add all ingredients except cranberries and lime slices; cover and shake. Pour into martini or tall stemmed glasses, straining the ice. Garnish glasses with fresh cranberries and lime slices on picks.

Cranberry Fizz
1 quart (4 cups) cranberry juice cocktail, chilled
1 cup grapefruit juice, chilled
1 cup orange juice, chilled
1/2 cup sugar
2 cups ginger ale, chilled

In a large pitcher or punch bowl, mix cranberry juice cocktail, grapefruit juice, orange juice and sugar until well blended. Just before serving, stir in ginger ale.

Camembert with Cranberry Caramelized Onions
1 tablespoon butter
1 small sweet onion, halved, thinly sliced
1 (8 oz) round Camembert Cheese
1/4 cup sweetened dried cranberries
2 teaspoons brown sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons sweet or dry sherry
2 tablespoons chopped fresh marjoram or 1 teaspoon dried marjoram leaves

Heat oven to 350 degrees. Melt butter in large skillet over medium heat. Add onion; cook 8-10 minutes or until very tender, stirring frequently. Meanwhile, place cheese in ungreased decorative ovenproof shallow baking dish or plate. Bake at 350 degrees for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is soft. Add cranberries, brown sugar, salt and sherry to onion; mix well. Cook 5 minutes or until sugar is dissolved, stirring frequently. Stir in marjoram; cook and stir 1 minute. To serve, spoon warm onion mixture over cheese. Serve with assorted crackers and small cocktail bread slices. Store in refrigerator. Serves 12 people.

Recipes can be found at www.pillsbury.com

Delightful Cranberry Inspired Drinks

2010-12-21T08:00:00.000-08:00

Just in time for your Holiday Parties - here are two Cranberry inspired drinks-Enjoy! Happy Holidays to everyone!

Cranberry Slush

1 large can frozen lemonade concentrate
1 small can frozen limeade concentrate
1 1/2 quarts Cranberry juice
2 cups vodka
2 cups water
7-up, Sprite, Gingerale (clear soda pop)

Mix all ingredients except the soda pop. Put in freezer and stir occasionally until mixture turns into slush (almost frozen). Spoon 3/4 cup slush and 1/4 cup soda into glass and serve.

Spiced Hot Cranberry Drink

3/4 cup brown sugar
1 cup water
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon allspice
3/4 teaspoon cloves
2 cans jellied Cranberries
3 cups water
1 quart pineapple juice

Stir together the brown sugar, water, salt, nutmeg, cinnamon, allspice and cloves. Bring to a boil. Break jelly with a fork and mix carefully with 3 cups water with a rotary beater until smooth.

Mix sugar mixture with jelly mixture and stir well. Add juice. Bring to a boil. Serve hot in cups and garnish with cinnamon sticks. Stores well in the refrigerator. Just reheat.

The Cranfest Scoop - December 2010 Newsletter

2010-12-07T14:06:00.000-08:00

The December Newsletter is available online.

In this month's issue:

Election 2010
Board of Directors
Donations to Date
Festival Opinion Survey
Royalty News
Cranberry Cuisine
Calendar of Events
Membership Form
Volunteer Form

Cranberry Heaven

2010-11-23T09:46:00.001-08:00

Just in time for Thanksgiving, try this delicious yummy delight! Cranberry Heaven - 1st Place Winner of the Fresh Cranberry Category in the 2010 Warrens Cranberry Festival Recipe Contest!

Submitted by: Judy Sommers, Bangor, WI

Topping:
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup water
4 cups fresh or frozen cranberries (1 12-ounce package)

Pick over and rinse cranberries with cold water and drain. In a medium size saucepan, bring water and sugar to a boil. Stir to dissolve sugar; add cranberries. Return to boil. Reduce heat. Simmer 10 minutes or until cranberry skins burst. Remove from heat. Cool at room temperature.

Nut Crust:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup butter
1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts)

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Put ingredients into a medium size mixing bowl. Mix with fingers until crumbly. Press into bottom of 9x13 pan. Bake 15 minutes at 375 degrees or until light brown.

Filling:
8 ounces cream cheese
1 cup granulated sugar
2 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Reduce oven to 350 degrees. Combine filling ingredients in a large mixing bowl. Beat on high until blended and smooth. Pour over crust and bake 25 minutes. Cool 15 minutes. Spread cranberry topping over filling. When cool, frost with 8 ounces of thawed whipped topping.

Yield: 12-15 servings

The Cranfest Scoop - November 2010 Newsletter

2010-11-12T06:22:00.000-08:00

The November Newsletter is now available online.

In this month's issue:

Letter from the President
2011 Button Design
Donations to Date
Festival Opinion Survey
2010 Award Winning Recipes
Calendar of Events
Photos of the 2010 Festival
2010 Contest Winners
Warrens Lions Club Article
Membership & Volunteer Forms
Hope for the Holidays
Community Christmas

The Cranfest Scoop - October 2010 Newsletter

2010-10-12T11:35:00.000-07:00

The October Newsletter is now available online. Read about the recent 38th Annual Warrens Cranberry Festival, that just took place September 24-26, 2010.

Also in this month's Issue:

Donations to Date
2010 Award Winning Recipes
2010-2011 Royalty News
Calendar of Events
2010 Contest Winners
2010 Video Contest Rules
Membership and Volunteer Forms
Photos from the 2010 Festival

2010 Vegetable Contest & Sunflower Rules

2010-07-30T07:26:00.000-07:00

This contest is open to the public and anyone is welcome to enter any vegetable or sunflower grown.

Check-in: Items must be brought between 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m., Wednesday, September 22, 2010, to the contest site, located in the entertainment tent, inside the Ball Park. Chairperson of the contest is Joe Pearson.

New this year! Biggest Pumpkin Contest. All contests will be judged after 6:30 p.m., Thursday, September 23rd. All entries must be displayed until 5:00 p.m., Saturday, September 25, 2010. Please bring entries thoroughly cleaned.

NEW Contest for Cranberry Festival Visitors - Guess the weight of the biggest pumpkin. Winner will be announced during the parade Sunday, September 26, 2010.

For a complete set of rules please visit our website www.cranfest.com or you can call our office 608-378-4200 or office@cranfest.com

July Cranfest Scoop (2010)

2010-07-22T08:15:00.000-07:00

The July issue of The Cranfest Scoop is now available online. Read about Ocean Spray Mobile RV Cross Country Tour. Which will be making an appearance at the 2010 Warrens Cranberry Festival. See what our Royalty have been up to and try some refreshing cranberry themed recipes for those fun summer get-togethers.

Also in this issue:

2011 Button Contest
Donations to Date
Calendar of Events
Vegetable, Scarecrow, and Flower Contests
Membership Form
Beautification Form
Volunteer Form

2010 Flower Contest Rules

2010-07-22T07:55:00.000-07:00

Categories:

1. Fresh Flower, Dried Floral, or Living Plant Arrangements
2. Silk Flower Arrangements
3. Imagination Arrangements (Fresh or Silk)
4. Cranberry Arrangements
5. Wreath/Any Type (Living, Silk, Fresh Cut, Dried)

To Enter:

All participants must have their arrangements at the Warrens Elementary School Gymnasium by 10 a.m., Friday, September 24, 2010.

For more information and a complete set of rules and entry form, please visit our website www.cranfest.com or call our Office 608-378-4200.

2010 Scarecrow Contest Rules

2010-07-22T07:42:00.000-07:00

This is an excellent project for school, daycares or other organizations. All you have to do is use your imagination.

Categories:
Most Unique: The most unusual or original Scarecrow.
Traditional: Design a traditional American Scarecrow that might watch over your garden.

To Enter: Please submit a written description of your entry on the back of the entry form. The Contest Chair and Committee reserve the right to not accept any Scarecrow which they feel may be offensive to the general public.

Please bring your Scarecrow to the Warrens Cranberry Festival Office between the hours of 8 a.m. and 4 p.m., the week of September 7-10, 2010. They will be displayed on light poles throughout Warrens, WI, during the 2010 Festival.

For more information and a complete set of rules and entry form, visit our website www.cranfest.com or call our Office 608-378-4200.

2010 Farmer's Market Contract Now Available

2010-06-08T13:38:00.000-07:00

2010 Farmer's Market contracts are now available at www.cranfest.com Below are some notes to keep in mind when applying.

Farmer's Market applications:

A Wisconsin Sellers Permit is required with all applications.
Cranfest reserves the right to accept or reject any application based on space available or merchandise sold.
A copy of your liability insurance covering your rented booth spaces must be in the Cranfest Office prior to setup. This may be mailed or faxed to Cranfest. For more insurance information, click here.

June Cranfest Scoop (2010)

2010-06-04T08:49:00.000-07:00

The June issue of The Cranfest Scoop is now available online. Read about Farmer Bob & Johnny the World's Funniest Tractor, who will be making an appearance at the 2010 Warrens Cranberry Festival. See what our Royalty have been up to and try the Craisin Glazed Steak recipe at your next backyard barbeque.

Also in this issue:

Warrens Cranberry Festival Scholarships
Local Students Report on Washington D.C. Trip
Meet the new Festival Coordinator
Donations to Date
Calendar of Events
Photography & Video Contest Rules
Membership Form
Beautification Form
Volunteer Form

2010 Video Contest - NEW!!!

2010-06-03T06:21:00.000-07:00

New for 2010, create your own video footage from the 2010 Warrens Cranberry Festival.

All Videos Must:

Be no longer than 2 minutes
Be taken at the 2010 Warrens Cranberry Festival
Be submitted in .avi, .mov., mpg or .wmv format
Not exceed 7MB

All Videos will be judged on creativity, message clarity and relevance to the Warrens Cranberry Festival and overall impact.

Entries:
Submit your entry by dropping or mailing a DVD disk. Mailing Address: PO Box 146, Warrens, WI 54666. Street Address: 402 Pine Street, Warrens. Or you can email the completed video to office@cranfest.com All entries must include, name, mailing address and telephone number.

Entry Deadline: November 1, 2010

For more information and a complete set of rules visit our website www.cranfest.com or call our office 608-378-4200.

2010 Photography Contest

2010-06-03T06:08:00.000-07:00

This contest is for amateur photographers. Definition of an amateur: one who cultivates any art or pursuit for the enjoyment of it, instead of professionally or for financial gain.

Color or black & white photos maybe submitted. Please submit 5x7 photos mounted with a single matte using rubber cement. If you use a digital camera, please submit photos with 600 dpi or better.

Categories:

Wisconsin Cranberry Marsh (includes crop and harvest)
Highlight pictures from Warrens Cranberry Festival
Wisconsin flower & plant life
Wildlife of Wisconsin
Scenery of Wisconsin
People of Wisconsin

To Enter: Please print your name, mailing address, and phone number (area code) on the back of the mounted picture. Print category (and number) of each photo below name. Title optional. You may have one entry per category.

Entry Deadline: September 3, 2010. You can submit your entries by mail or you can drop them off in person at the Warrens Cranberry Festival Office. Mailing Address: PO Box 146, Warrens, WI 54666 or Street Address: 402 Pine Street, Warrens.

Judging: All entries will be judged September 6, 2010. Winning entries will be on display at the Warrens Elementary School during the Festival Weekend. Friday, September 24 - Saturday, September 25, 2010.

For more information & the complete set of rules for this contest, please visit our website www.cranfest.com or call the office at 608-378-4200.

Warrens Cranberry Festival Hires Festival Coordinator

2010-06-03T05:57:00.001-07:00

Heidi Parr is the Festival Coordinator. In this position, Heidi will coordinate publicity for the Festival, as well as maintain the Festival Website and other social media facets and assist with a variety of administrative tasks. Heidi received an Associate in Applied Science/Administrative Assistant Degree from Western Technical College in 2001. Heidi and her husband, Tracy, reside in Warrens.

Craisin Glazed Steak

2010-05-21T12:37:00.000-07:00

Ingredients:

2 boneless beef top loin steaks, cut 1-in thick
1/2 cup Craisins
1 large garlic clove
1/2 teaspoon dry mustard
1 teaspoon liquid smoke
1/2 cup chili sauce
1/2 cup chopped onion
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon pepper
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1/2 cup water

Combine Craisins, onion, garlic, brown sugar, dry mustard, and pepper in a food processor, process until finely chopped. Add liquid smoke, oil, chili sauce, and water. Process until well mixed. Transfer glaze to a small saucepan. Simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally. Place steaks on a broiler rack (use non-stick cooking spray) or on the BBQ grill. Season steaks with salt and pepper. Broil or grill steaks for 7 minutes. Turn steaks, spread top and sides with glaze. Broil or grill for additional 7 minutes or until desired doneness.

Yield 4 servings

Warrens Cranberry Festival Awards 2010 Scholarships

2010-05-18T12:46:00.000-07:00

Warrens Cranberry Festival announced the winners of its six academic scholarships for 2010. Each year six scholarships are awarded to local area students to help them achieve higher educational goals.

Daniel White of Tomah was awarded the $500 Alice Walworth Nemitz Memorial Scholarship and plans to attend Western Technical College. To be eligible for the award, students were required to be residents of the Tomah Area School District and be accepted into a two- or four-year course of study involving the arts.

Branden Steinmetz of Tomah was awarded the $500 Kay Johnson Memorial Scholarship and is pursuing a degree at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse. The scholarship requirements include being a resident of the Tomah Area School District as well as a current or former member of the Tomah High School Marching Band. Applicants were to be accepted into a two- or four-year course of study with demonstrated intent to continue musical performance.

Travis Wilder of Warrens was awarded the $500 Ken Peterson Memorial Scholarship and plans to attend the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. Residents of the Tomah Area School District who were accepted into a two- or four-year program with an emphasis in Agri-Business, Ag-Science or Environmental Study were eligible to apply.

Heather Fleming of Tomah was awarded the $500 Ken Rattle Memorial Scholarship is pursuing a degree at Mid-State Technical College. Students in the Tomah Area School District who were accepted into an Agricultural Program were eligible to apply.

Molly Prise of Tomah was awarded the $500 Warrens Cranberry Festival, Inc., Scholarship and plans to attend the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse. To be eligible for the award, students were required to be accepted into a two- or four-year course of study with an emphasis on education.

Mitch Rezin of Tomah was awarded the $500 Dale Trowbridge Memorial Scholarship and is pursuing a degree at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. The scholarship requirements included being a resident of the Tomah Area School District and pursuing a career in Law Enforcement.

To find out more about Warrens Cranberry Festival Scholarships, call 608-378-4200 or email cranfest@cranfest.com. The 2010 Warrens Cranberry Festival will take place September 24-26.

Warrens Students Report on their DC Trip

2010-05-13T06:09:00.000-07:00

At the May 10th Warrens Cranberry Festival meeting, Warrens Elementary students Cassidy Fox, LeAnn Streeter, Jarrett Parr and Margaret Lass reported on their recent Washington, D.C. trip.

The students were part of the Warrens Safety Patrol that made the trip, and Warrens Cranberry Festival donated $100 per student toward the travel expenses. The students reported on the various activities and sites they visited, including the White House, Gettysburg and several monuments.

Each year, Warrens Cranberry Festival donates thousands of dollars to local organizations. To find out more about Warrens Cranberry Festival donations, call 608-378-4200 or email cranfest@cranfest.com. The 2010 Warrens Cranberry Festival will take place September 24-26.

2010 Recipe Contest Extended Deadline

2010-05-06T06:40:00.000-07:00

Warrens Cranberry Festival has extended its deadline for recipe contest entries to June 1, 2010. This year’s theme is “Discover Cranberries.”

Each recipe must contain fresh or processed cranberries. Recipes containing fresh and fresh

frozen berries are included in the fresh cranberry division. Recipes containing commercially prepared cranberry products, for example juices, relishes, sauces, craisins, etc. are included in the processed cranberry division.

Six top prizes of $100, $75 and $50 savings bonds, sponsored by the Farmers & Merchants Bank of Tomah and Warrens, will be awarded to the first, second and third place winners in both the fresh and processed cranberry recipe divisions. Kitchen Craft/West Bend will award one of its products to each winner.

All entries must be submitted according to the official rules to qualify for the contest. Anyone wishing to participate may obtain complete contest rules by contacting the Warrens Cranberry Festival Office at 608-378-4200 or office@cranfest.com. All entries must be postmarked by midnight, June 1, 2010.

The Wisconsin Cranberry Recipe Contest will be part of the 38th annual Warrens Cranberry Festival to be held September 24-26, 2010.

Cranberry-Apple Sweet Potatoes

2010-05-03T08:47:00.000-07:00

Ingredients:
2 18 ounce cans sweet potatoes
1 21 ounce can apple pie filling
1 8 ounce can whole cranberry sauce
2 tablespoons apricot preserves
2 tablespoons orange marmalade

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Drain sweet potatoes and cut into bite-sized pieces. Spread pie filling in an 8x8x2-inch baking dish. Arrange sweet potatoes over pie filling. In a small bowl combine cranberry sauce, apricot preserves and orange marmalade. Spoon over sweet potatoes. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes.

Yield: 6-8 servings

May Cranfest Scoop

2010-04-30T09:19:00.000-07:00

The May issue of The Cranfest Scoop is now available online. Read about an exciting new parade update and see what our Royalty have been up to. Also, try a delicious cranberry marinade for your Memorial Day grilling.

Also in this issue:

Final Farewells
2010 Members
Donations to Date
Calendar of Events
Membership Form
Beautification Grant
Volunteer Form

UW Eau Claire Blugolds to Be in This Year's Parade

2010-04-30T09:11:00.000-07:00

We would like to announce an exciting addition to our gigantic parade this year: the UW Eau Claire Marching Blugolds!

The 280-member band is one of the most active bands in the upper Midwest, appearing at football games, festivals and stage shows. They have performed in such places as the Vatican and are doing a 10-day tour of Paris, London and Venice this season.

In addition to marching in the parade, the Blugolds will perform immediately after the parade on Main Street. This will truly be an experience Cranfesters will never forget!

Recipe Contest is Coming to a Close/Cranberry Fruit Pizza

2010-04-27T12:43:00.000-07:00

Hey all you aspiring chefs out there! Our annual Wisconsin Cranberry Recipe Contest deadline is creeping up very quickly. Deadline for entries is this Friday, April 30. Enter your favorite original fresh or processed cranberry recipe and see if you can be a winner! Entry information is available here.

If you need some inspiration, here is one of our winning recipes from last year, Cranberry Fruit Pizza.

Cranberry Fruit Pizza

Ingredients

16.5 ounces refrigerated sugar cookie dough
8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
16 ounces whole cranberry sauce
14 slices frozen peaches
1 sweet or tart crisp apple
12 ounces frozen mixed berries
1/2 cup cherry flavored sweetened dried cranberries
1/4 cup orange marmalade
1/8 to 1/4 cup sweetened shredded coconut
1/8 to 1/4 cup finely ground walnuts

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Roll or pat the cookie dough into an 11-inch tart pan with removable bottom. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly browned. Let cool. Sprinkle frozen peaches with lemon juice, thaw and pat dry. Defrost frozen berries and drain. Defrose frozen berries and drain. Set defrosted fruit aside. Remove cookie crust from pan and place on serving platter. Mix cream cheese and vanilla extract together. Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the cooled crust. Spread the cranberry sauce over the cream cheese.

Arrange peach slices end to end around the outer edge of the crust. Slice the cored apple into 1/8-inch thick slices and lay them end to end inside the peach outer circle. Evenly place the drained berries as the next ring. Place another ring of apples after the berries. Evenly distribute sweetened dried cranberries as the center of the pizza. Warm the orange marmalade and evenly brush it over the entire surface of fruit. Finally, evenly sprinkle the entire pizza with the coconut and walnuts.

Makes 8-10 servings.

Chicken Cranberry Pizza

2010-04-16T12:58:00.000-07:00

Have a party this weekend with this tangy take on a classic favorite- pizza.

Ingredients
1/2-3/4 pound chicken breast
vegetable oil
dough or prepared pizza crust
1-1/2 cup cranberry (whole) sauce
6 ounces brie, chopped
8 ounce shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup mushrooms of your choice
1/4 red onion
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1/2 teaspoon fennel seed
1 teaspoon oregano
salt and pepper
sweetened dried cranberries

Saute the chicken with vegetable oil. Add the onion, mushrooms and all spices. Once cooked, remove the chicken and saute the rest a little longer until the mushrooms are cooked.

Shape the pizza dough or place the prepared pizza crust onto a pizza pan or stone. Bake the dough for about 10-15 minutes before adding the toppings.

Once baked, top the crust with cranberry sauce, chicken, mushrooms, brie, mozzarella, onion and dried cranberries.

Bake at 350 degrees for about 20 minutes or until everything is melted and the crust is light brown.

Cranberry Swirl Cheesecake

2010-04-14T06:59:00.000-07:00

In Wisconsin, we're known for two things: cheese and, of course, cranberries. This recipe from www.cranberries.org combines the best of both worlds.

Ingredients
24 ounces cream cheese
2 tablespoons flour
1 cup sugar
3 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla
1/4 cup heavy cream
1 1/2 cups sweetened cranberry puree

Crust
2 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1 cup melted butter

Gather ingredients and bring to room temperature. Preheat oven to 325 degrees.

To make the crust, place graham cracker crumbs in a medium sized work bowl. Add melted butter and mix well.

Place graham cracker mixture evenly over the bottom of a greased 10-inch spring form pan

Place cream cheese, flour and sugar in the work bowl of electric mixer. Beat on medium/high until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, scraping sides of bowl between each egg. Add vanilla and heavy cream. Beat until smooth.

Pour 2/3 of the cheesecake batter over the graham cracker crust. Spoon the sweetened cranberry puree over the cheese mix in dollops about 1 inch apart. Pour remaining batter over puree. Swirl through the batter and puree with a knife to achieve marble effect. Be careful not to scrape crust.

Create a water bath by placing the spring form pan in the center of a roasting pan. Pour hot water into the roasting pan approximately half way up the sides of the spring form pan.

Place roasting pan in the center of the preheated oven. Bake for 45-60 minutes. Check cake at 45 minutes for doneness. Cheesecake will be golden brown and puffed in the center. If center is sagging, add additional time as needed, and check every few minutes.

Let cheesecake stand for at least 1 1/2 hours before refrigerating for 24 hours. Slide knife around rim of spring form pan, remove rim and serve.

April Newsletter

2010-04-05T09:33:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone!

Hope you had a "berry" blessed Easter! This month's edition of the Cranfest Scoop is now available online. Read about this year's contests, and check out our new 2010 shirts that are now available in the festival office. Also, read what our royalty have been up to, and enjoy a delicious recipe for cranberry orange streusel bread.

Pictorial Cancellation Contest

2010-03-25T06:14:00.000-07:00

Do you know what a pictorial cancellation is? Neither did I until I worked here! A pictorial cancellation is simply another term for a postmark. And you have the opportunity to design your very own postmark in Warrens Cranberry Festival's pictorial cancellation contest!

The pictorial cancellation will be a limited edition postmark unique to Warrens Cranberry Festival. The festival was the first in the 546/559 zip codes to begin the special postmark. The winner of the contest will receive a $25 Series E Savings Bond sponsored by the festival.

The deadline for contest entries is July 1, 2010. All entries must be postmarked by this date to qualify for judging. All entries will be judged by art professionals, cranberry growers, Cranfest board members or people in the field of pictorial cancellation design. Winners will be announced the week after judging.

Contest rules are available online at www.cranfest.com or call 608-378-4200. And don't forget! This year's Cranfest will take place from September 24-26.

2010 Cranfest shirts on sale now

2010-03-24T06:10:00.000-07:00

Warrens Cranberry Festival 2010 shirts are now on sale, so get yours while they last!

Both t-shirts and sweatshirts are available. The shirts are maroon and feature the 2010 Cranfest button design in the upper left corner. T-shirts are available in adult sizes small-4X for $15 each, and sweatshirts can be purchased in adult sizes small-3X for $20 each.

Shirts may be purchased in the festival office. Call 608-378-4200 or email office@cranfest.com for more information.

2010 Recipe Rules Available Now

2010-03-22T12:25:00.000-07:00

Do you love cranberries and love to cook? Then try our recipe contest! Warrens Cranberry Festival is now accepting entries for its 2010 Wisconsin Cranberry Recipe Contest. This year’s theme is “Discover Cranberries.”

Each recipe must contain fresh or processed cranberries. Recipes containing fresh and fresh frozen berries are included in the fresh cranberry division. Recipes containing commercially prepared cranberry products, for example juices, relishes, sauces, craisins, etc. are included in the processed cranberry division.

All entries must be submitted according to the official rules to qualify for the contest. Anyone wishing to participate may obtain complete contest rules online or by contacting the festival office at 608-378-4200. All entries must be postmarked by midnight, April 30, 2010.

The Wisconsin Cranberry Recipe Contest will be part of the 38th annual Warrens Cranberry Festival to be held September 24-26, 2010.

March Newsletter

2010-03-02T12:09:00.000-08:00

Read the March issue of the Cranfest Scoop online. See what's going to be happening with this year's parade, learn what our Royalty have been doing and check out a tasty winter salad recipe.

2010 Parade Forms Available Now

2010-02-17T13:29:00.000-08:00

Warrens Cranberry Festival would like to announce that its 2010 parade entry forms are now available. The parade, to be held Sept. 26 at noon, features five entry categories, including commercial & horse, band, royalty, novelty and nonprofit.

Each year the parade features more than 100 units and is one of the largest marching band parades in Wisconsin. The parade hopes to involve more locals with the novelty and nonprofit categories, both of which offer cash prizes for uniquely decorated units. Both novelty and nonprofit accept kid and adult entries free of charge, and the novelty category also features a commercial subcategory for businesses. Commercial entries are $55. The nonprofit category is open to only registered nonprofit organizations and is free of charge.

Entry forms are available online at www.cranfest.com or in the Cranberry Festival office. For more information or to request a form, call 608-378-4200.

February Newsletter

2010-02-09T11:01:00.000-08:00

The February issue of the Cranfest Scoop is now available online. Included are our 2010 parade marshals and a memorial piece for Cranfest founder June Jensen. Read about what our royalty have been up to, and learn to make some delicious cookies for your Valentine!

Also in this issue:

Letter from the President
Calendar of Events
Discovery Center Bake & Take Classes
Button Design Contest
Membership Form
Beautification Grant

2010 Parade Marshals

2010-02-08T13:02:00.000-08:00

Warrens Cranberry Festival has named the Warrens Lions as its 2010 parade marshals.

The Lions are celebrating their 25^th anniversary in 2010. The club was founded in 1985 by Gary Alexander, who also served as the first president. Since their inception, the Lions have made several contributions to the Warrens community, including the concession stand and pavilion at the ball park and the Lions Log Building, which is used for everything from community gatherings to receptions and family reunions.

The Cranberry Festival parade will take place on Sunday, Sept. 26, 2010 at noon. For more information, visit www.cranfest.com, or call the festival office at 608-378-4200.

New Insurance Rule for Vendors

2010-02-04T07:59:00.000-08:00

Many vendors have already heard about the new insurance changes that are being made this year for Cranfest. For those of you with questions, here are some more details.

The Warrens Cranberry Festival Inc. has liability insurance on all lawns, streets, parks or any property the Fest uses throughout the village of Warrens prior, during, and after the festival. This is required by the village, the property owner, the county government, and our insurance company.

The Festival rents vendor space to our visiting vendors. Once you have been accepted and your check cashed by Fest, the vendor is responsible for all liability insurance in their rented assigned booth. This requirement does not include product liability, which is cost prohibitive. If you wish to acquire it on your own, it is your prerogative. Examples: Someone trips over a box or display in your booth and falls, breaks their glasses or worse their arm, they will sue you, Cranfest, the property owner and the village. We all need protection against this type of incident. Most county/state fairs, art/craft shows, and flea markets require this type of liability insurance. Some homeowner policies will let you add liability for shows to your policy. Some are restricting liability to garage/yard sales on your own property. Most vendors take out liability policies for the season/annual when they are doing shows. Some policies run $100 per show or $500 for the summer season. Check insurance in your area. A local insurance company in our area that is aware of this that you could possible check with is Westland Insurance in Tomah.

A current copy of your liability insurance covering your rented booth space must be in our Cranfest office prior to set up. This may be mailed or faxed to Cranfest. This is for your own protection as well as Cranfest's, and we thank you in advance for your cooperation.

2010 Buttons Available

2010-01-26T09:02:00.001-08:00

Warrens Cranberry Festival has chosen a design for the 38th annual festival. The button features white lettering circling the button on a green background, with cranberries and vines surrounding “2010.”

The 2010 buttons are $1 each and can be purchased at F&M Bank, Warrens Mall, Quilting Plus and the Cranberry Festival office in Warrens. Buttons are available in Tomah at the Chamber of Commerce, Phillips Pharmacy, J&R Variety, Cranberry Country Mall and the Antique Mall.

Area youth groups are encouraged to sell the buttons as a fundraiser. Call the Cranberry Festival office at 608-378-4200 for details.

The 2011 button design contest rules are currently available. The deadline for entries is June 1, and the winning button will be unveiled at the 2010 Cranfest, to be held Sept. 24-26. Rules are available online at www.cranfest.com, or call 608-378-4200.

National Popcorn Day

2010-01-19T09:31:00.000-08:00

Today is national popcorn day! Celebrate by trying this crunchy cranberry popcorn recipe from Taste of Home.

Cranberry Popcorn Deluxe

Ingredients

8 cups air-popped popcorn
3/4 cup dried cranberries
1/4 cup slivered almonds
1/4 cup pecan halves
1/4 cup honey
3 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons maple syrup
1/4 teaspoon almond extract

In a shallow roasting pan, combine the popcorn, cranberries, almonds and pecans. In a small saucepan, combine the honey, butter and syrup. Cook and stir over medium heat until butter is melted. Remove from the heat; stir in extract. Drizzle over popcorn mixture and toss to coat. Bake at 325° for 15 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes. Cool on a wire rack, stirring occasionally. Store in an airtight container. Yields 8 cups.

Nutrition Facts: 1/2 cup equals 96 calories, 4 g fat (2 g saturated fat), 6 mg cholesterol, 16 mg sodium, 14 g carbohydrate, 1 g fiber, 1 g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 starch, 1 fat.

Photo by Taste of Home.

Vendor Forms Now Available

2010-01-08T07:37:00.000-08:00

2010 arts & craft and flea market/antique forms are now available at cranfest.com. Below are some notes to keep in mind when applying.

Arts & Craft applications

A copy of your Wisconsin Sales Tax Permit is required with all applications. Visit the Wisconsin Dept. of Revenue site for more information.
Deadline for applications is May 1, 2010.
Cranfest reserves the right to accept or reject any application due to available space and merchandise sold.
All arts & craft spaces are 10x10-feet. You may apply for more than one booth to add space as needed, but can have no more than 2 spaces in one location.
Booth fee is $300 per 10x10-foot space plus a $25 sanitation fee.
All items must be handmade to qualify for an arts & craft space. Buy & sell vendors may apply using the arts & craft application, but they must note they are applying for buy & sell on the application.

Flea Market/Antique applications

A copy of your Wisconsin Sales Tax Permit is required with all applications. Visit the Wisconsin Dept. of Revenue site for more information.
Deadline to apply is May 1, 2010.
Booth prices are $7.50 per frontage foot up to 30 feet, or $8.00 per frontage foot for anything exceeding 30 feet. A $25 sanitation fee is also required.
Cranfest reserves the right to accept or reject any application due to space available or merchandise sold.
All booth spaces are 18 feet deep. You pay for the amount of frontage.

January Cranfest Scoop

2010-01-07T13:52:00.000-08:00

The January 2010 edition of the Cranfest Scoop is now available online.

In this issue, you'll find details about 2010 meetings and royalty news. Also read about the first annual Warrens Community Christmas and Hope for the Holidays. We had a great turnout! Check out the cranberry punch recipe, and take a look at this year's beautification grant and membership forms.

2010 Bus Reservation Forms

2010-01-04T12:22:00.001-08:00

2010 bus reservation forms for Cranfest are now available online. This year's festival will be held September 24-26, and booths open at 7 a.m. each day.

Tour buses can park at the festival for $30 per bus. Please advise potential passengers that the
Warrens Cranberry Festival covers many acres, and that a considerable amount of walking will be required of festival guests. There are currently no wheel chair or scooter rentals on the grounds at this time.

On Friday and Saturday of the festival, tour buses can request a step-on guide to take them on a
cranberry marsh tour. Guests will have the opportunity to learn about the history of cranberry production and catch an up-close glimpse at an actual cranberry bog. A step-on guide tour is available for $6 per person on the bus, excluding the tour guide and the bus driver, in addition to the $30 parking fee. If you choose this option, your tour will be held when you arrive at the festival. The deadline for step-on guide requests and payment is September 1, 2010. Step-on guide tours will not be available after this date.

If the entire bus does not wish to take a marsh tour, individual marsh tours are available for $6 per person at the Municipal Building in Warrens. Step-on guide tours and individual tours are held Friday and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tours leave every 15 minutes and last about one hour.

Sunday buses must arrive by 8:30 a.m. Buses arriving on this day should plan on staying until after the parade (approximately 3 p.m.) for traffic reasons. No marsh tours or step-on guides are available on Sunday.

If your bus company is interested in attending the festival, please return the reservation form and check to the festival office by September 1, 2010. The festival does not take credit cards at this time. To ensure your bus will be able to park at the festival, please enclose your check with the form. Unpaid buses will not be able to park until payment has been arranged.

If you have further questions about buses at the festival, please contact the festival office at
608-378-4200 or office@cranfest.com.

We look forward to seeing you at the festival!

Slow Cooker Cranberry Pork

2009-12-30T08:55:00.000-08:00

Looking for an easy meal? Try this delicious slow cooker cranberry pork recipe from allrecipes.com.

Ingredients

1 (16 ounce) can cranberry sauce
1/3 cup French salad dressing
1 onion, sliced
1 (3 pound) boneless pork loin roast

Directions

In a medium bowl, stir together the cranberry sauce, salad dressing, and onion. Place pork in a slow cooker, and cover with the sauce mixture.
Cover, and cook on High for 4 hours, or on Low for 8 hours. Pork is done when the internal temperature has reached 160 degrees F (70 degrees C).

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-21T08:27:00.001-08:00

Warrens Cranberry Festival would like to wish everyone a "berry" merry Christmas! Stay safe when traveling, and enjoy the snow we're supposed to get later this week!

Cranberry Maple Butter

2009-12-16T07:57:00.000-08:00

Shoutout to Jen, who requested this recipe by Artis Mewis of Cambridge, Wisconsin.

Ingredients
1 cup water
3 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
1/2 cup maple syrup
6 tablespoons brown sugar, firmly packed
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Makes 1 3/4 cups

Combine water and cranberries in a large saucepan or Dutch oven. Bring to a boil, cover, reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes or until cranberries pop. Place cranberry mixture in a blender or food processor and process until smooth.

Combine cranberry mixture, maple syrup, brown sugar and cinnamon in pan. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer uncovered for 25 minutes or until mixture is thick. Stir in vanilla extract. Cool.

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to 2 months.

December Newsletter

2009-12-15T10:35:00.000-08:00

Happy Holidays from the Cranfest Office!

The December 2009 issue of The Cranfest Scoop and features information about meeting changes, contest sponsorships, 2010 membership and the upcoming Community Christmas. Also read about what our royalty has been up to, how Warrens was involved in the Christmas tree at the State Capitol and a delicious cranberry fudge recipe!

If you would like to be on our newsletter mailing list, please e-mail us at office@cranfest.com.

Have a "berry" blessed Christmas and a happy New Year!

Snowy Day Cranberry Cider

2009-12-08T08:18:00.000-08:00

Snow is just starting this morning, and forecasts are for 8-12 inches by tomorrow night. Sounds like a couple of snow days may be coming. Stay warm on your snow days with this cheery cranberry cider.

Spiced Cranberry Cider Mix
Serves 12 to 14

2 quarts apple cider
1 quart water
1 package Spiced Cranberry Cider Mix
2 oranges, sliced

In a large saucepan combine the cider, water, and Spiced Cranberry Cider Mix. Heat through but do not boil. Add most of the orange slices. Serve warm, garnished with the remaining orange slices.

2010 Button Contest

2009-12-03T10:32:00.000-08:00

For all you designers out there, the 2010 button contest rules are now available! New this year: Instead of designing the 2010 button, you'll be designing the 2011 button for the 39th Annual Cranfest. The designs are due by June, and the winner will be unveiled at the 2010 Cranfest. For more information, see the official rules, or call the office at 608-378-4200. Good luck!

Cranfest Contests Seeking Sponsorships for 2010

2009-11-24T13:56:00.000-08:00

WARRENS, Wisconsin, November 19, 2009- Warrens Cranberry Festival announced today an opportunity to involve local businesses by inviting them to sponsor festival contests for 2010.

The festival brings more than $3 million annually to the Monroe County area. Sponsorships will give locals the opportunity to give back to the festival, as well as become involved in their community.

Contests looking for sponsors include the Wisconsin Cranberry Recipe Contest, Photography Contest, Pictorial Cancellation, Vegetable & Sunflower Contest, Scarecrow Contest, Biggest Berry Contest, Flower Show, Button Design Contest and Quilt & Needlework Contest.

Sponsors of the 2010 contests will receive special recognition, including placement on the contest's entry form and placement on the festival Web site, www.cranfest.com. Sponsors who donate $250 or more will also have their company names in the 2010 festival brochure and signage at their chosen contests.

Sponsorship forms are available online at www.cranfest.com and at the festival office. For more information about sponsorship opportunities or contests, please contact the festival office at 608-378-4200 or office@cranfest.com.

November 2009 Newsletter

2009-11-12T11:23:00.000-08:00

The November issue of The Cranfest Scoop newsletter is now available on our website.

In this issue:

Letter from the President
Election 2009
Donations to Date
2010 Button Design
Cranfest 2009 Overview
Special Guests 2009
Royalty News
Winning Recipes
Lions Fountain
Where in Wisconsin?
Calendar of Events
Jean Case
2010 Membership Form
Hope 4 the Holidays
Community Christmas

2010 Cranfest Button

2009-11-10T06:48:00.000-08:00

Cranfest has chosen a new button! Our membership voted yesterday to choose a great new design featuring work from our public relations specialist Lindsey Coblentz. The new design incorporates the year 2010 complete with vines and cranberries. Let us know what you think!

For any of you interested in button design, we will be having our annual button design contest for 2011 in 2010. The winning design for 2011 will be unveiled at the 2010 Cranfest. Contest rules will be available in early 2010 at www.cranfest.com.

What would you like to see at Cranfest?

2009-11-06T07:25:00.001-08:00

Cranfest is going on its 38th year, and we've built some great traditions! Of course, shopping at our 1200 arts & crafts, flea market, farm market and food booths is the highlight of our event, but we've also developed some great contests and one of the largest marching band parades in Wisconsin!

These great traditions will stick around for many years to come, but now we're looking for input for our visitors to make sure our festival continues to be one of the best in the country. We want to know what you like best about Cranfest, and what you don't like so much. What would you like to see at Cranfest that we don't have already? Feel free to let it all hang out. We can take it!

Cranberry Cherry Pie

2009-11-03T07:57:00.000-08:00

Here is a tasty recipe excerpt from our local newspaper, the Tomah Journal.

"And with cranberry harvest over, it’s once again time for new ways to use those fresh cranberries. Here’s a Cranberry Cherry Pie that I thought was very good.

Cranberry Cherry Pie

Pie crust for 2 crust pie

2 cups fresh (or frozen) cranberries

3/4 c. sugar

2 tbsp. cornstarch

1 (21-oz.) can cherry pie filling

Prepare pie crust, placing bottom layer in a 9” pie pan. Leave 1/2” extending. Heat oven to 425 degrees. In large bowl, combine cranberries, sugar and cornstarch. Mix well. Stir in cherry pie filling. Mix lightly. Spoon into pie crust. Top with second crust and flute edges. Cut slits in several places. Bake 35-45 minutes or until crust is golden brown. Cover edge of crust with foil about 20 minutes into baking.

And I also recently made a pecan pie, another family favorite. You can’t get much easier than this!

Mom’s Pecan Pie

2/3 c. white sugar

2 eggs

1 heaping tbsp. flour

1/2 tsp. vanilla

1 cup white syrup

4 tbsp. melted butter

1/2 tsp. salt

1 c. pecans

Beat eggs and add each ingredient one at a time. Line unbaked pie shell with nuts and pour mixture over nuts. Bake in 350 degree oven for 40-45 minutes."

Stuffed Pumpkin with Cranberry-Raisin Bread Pudding

2009-10-30T07:07:00.000-07:00

Serve this tasty treat at your Halloween party! Stuffed Pumpkin with Cranberry-Raisin Bread Pudding Recipes - Desserts - Halloween Party Ideas, Recipes and Decorations - Photos - SouthernLiving.com

Quick Low-Fat, Low-Calorie Dinner Recipes... Featuring Cranberries!

2009-10-26T13:30:00.001-07:00

Check out Quick Low-Fat, Low-Calorie Dinner Recipes. This article features yummy healthy recipes, including a delectable recipe for pork chops and cranberries!

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Cranberry Cheese Tart

2009-10-23T07:43:00.000-07:00

This cranberry cheese tart by Shirley Johnson of Warrens is delicious! Not to mention that it was our 2nd place winner in the fresh cranberry division of our 2009 recipe contest!

Ingredients
1 single pie crust
5 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 1/4 cups granulated sugar, divided
1 tablespoon grated orange peel
2 eggs
1/3 cup heavy cream
2 cups cranberries, fresh or frozen

Topping
1 cup all-purpose flour
6 tablespoons butter or margarine, melted
1/4 teaspoon almond extract

Makes 10 servings.

Rinse cranberries under cold water, drain and set aside. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Roll and fit pie crust into 9 1/2 or 10-inch removable bottom tart pan. Set aside. In large bowl, beat cream cheese, 3/4 cup sugar and orange peel until smooth. Beat in eggs one at a time. Gradually blend in cream. Fill crust with even layer of cranberries. Pour cream cheese mixture over top.

Topping: In small bowl, using a fork, combine flour, remaining 1/2 cup sugar, butter and almond extract until mixture forms coarse crumbs. Sprinkle over tart. Bake 55 to 60 minutes until set and lightly browned. Cool 10 minutes in pan. Remove side of pan. Cool on wire rack. (I place tart pan on cookie sheet when baking for easier handling.) Garnish with cranberries if desired.

Winning Recipe: Cranberry Fruit Pizza

2009-10-16T10:59:00.000-07:00

Cranberry Fruit Pizza by Denise Grover was our first place winner in the processed cranberry category of our annual cranberry recipe contest. This recipe features a wonderful blend of flavors to create the berry best taste!

16.5 ounces refrigerated sugar cookie dough

8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature

½ teaspoon vanilla extract

16 ounces whole cranberry sauce

14 slices frozen peaches

1 sweet or tart crisp apple

12 ounces frozen mixed berries

½ cup cherry flavored craisins

¼ cup orange marmalade

1/8 to ¼ cup sweetened shredded coconut

1/8 to ¼ cup finely ground walnuts

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Roll or pat the cookie dough into an 11-inch tart pan with removable bottom. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly browned. Let cool. Sprinkle frozen peaches with lemon juice, thaw and pat dry. Defrost frozen berries and drain. Set defrosted fruit aside. Remove cookie crust from pan and place on serving platter. Mix cream cheese and vanilla extract together. Spread cheese mixture evenly over the cooled crust. Spread the cranberry sauce over the cream cheese.

Arrange peach slices end to end around the outer edge of the crust. Slice the cored apple into 1/8-inch thick slices and lay them end to end inside the peach outer circle. Evenly place the drained berries as the next ring. Place another ring of apples after the berries. Evenly distribute craisins as the center of the pizza. Warm the orange marmalade and evenly brush it over entire surface of fruit. Finally, evenly sprinkle the entire pizza with the coconut and walnuts.

Yield: 8-10 servings

Website is working!

2009-10-14T06:15:00.001-07:00

Our website is now up and running again! Let us know if you have any problems accessing it, or if there is something you would like to see added to the site.

Website issues

2009-10-13T08:25:00.001-07:00

Our website, www.cranfest.com, is currently experiences technical difficulties. Our e-mail has also been affected by these issues. If you have any festival questions, please contact us at 608-378-4200, and we will be able to help you. The website should be up and running again in the next 24 hours or so. Thanks for your support and patience!

Winning Recipe: Cranberry Blossoms

2009-10-12T12:39:00.000-07:00

First place winner in the fresh cranberry division of our annual recipe contest was Jean Harvey with her Cranberry Blossoms dish! Check back at the end of the week for our winning processed cranberry recipe!

Filling:

2 cups cranberries, fresh or frozen

¾ cup water (divided)

1 cup granulated sugar

2 tablespoons cornstarch

Cream layer:

1 cup whipped topping (additional for garnish)

½ cup cranberry filling (from above)

Shells:

1 package (15) baked mini fillo shells (from freezer case in grocery store)

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Rinse cranberries with cold water and drain. Finely chop cranberries and ½ cup water in blender or food processor. In a small bowl, combine cornstarch and ¼ cup water, mixing well. Place cranberries and water mixture in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil and cook for 2 minutes. Add sugar, stirring to dissolve. Stir in cornstarch and water mixture. Boil and stir for another minute or two until thickened. Remove from heat and cool thoroughly. Remove fillo shells from packaging and place on ungreased cookie sheet. To crisp, place in oven for 3 to 5 minutes or according to package instructions. For cream layer, combine whipped topping with ½ cup prepared, cooled filling mixture.

To assemble: Spread about ½ teaspoon cranberry filling in bottom of each shell. Spoon a teaspoon of the cream mixture over filling. Garnish with whipped topping and a dab of filling.

Yield: 15 shells (about 7 servings)

October Cranfest Scoop

2009-10-12T07:25:00.000-07:00

The October Cranfest Scoop is now available. In this issue...

Cranfest Overview
Sunshine Artist Award
International Guests
Donations to Date
Cranfest Scenes
Royalty News
Winning Recipes
Lions Fountain
Where in Wisconsin?
Calendar of Events
2010 Membership Form

Check it out at here.

Cranberry Recipe Winners 2009

2009-10-05T14:22:00.000-07:00

This year we had some very tasty treats entered into our annual cranberry recipe contests, and the results are in!

Fresh Division Winners
1st place- Cranberry Blossoms by Jean Harvey
2nd place- Cranberry Cheese Tart by Shirley Johnson
3rd place- Anita's Cranberry Scones by Anita Reeck

Processed Division Winners
1st place- Cranberry Fruit Pizza by Denise Grover
2nd place- Cranberry Blossoms by Sheena Voge
3rd place- Sweet BBQ Chicken Dip by Rachel Reeck

Congratulations to all our winners! Check back later this week for the start of our winning cranberry recipes series.

Cranberry Beef Stew

2009-10-02T08:12:00.000-07:00

As we head into autumn, we'll all want some nice comfort food to keep us warm on a chilly day. This hearty cranberry beef stew recipe hits the spot just right!

Ingredients
3 tablespoons butter
1/2 cup chopped onion
2 cloves garlic, chopped
3 pounds lean beef, cut in 2-inch cubes
seasoned flour (flour, salt and pepper)
2 cups beef bouillon
1 cup red wine
1 cup tomatoes, peeled and chopped
4 cups fresh cranberries
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
1 bay leaf
1 cup celery
1 cup green beans
6 carrots, peeled and cut in pieces
1 teaspoon thyme
3 sprigs fresh parsley

Makes 12 to 15 servings

In large Dutch oven on top of the range, melt butter and saute the chopped onion and garlic until soft. Roll the beef cubes in flour, seasoned with salt and pepper. Brown the beef over high heat for 3 to 5 minutes. Add remaining ingredients, except carrots, green beans and celery. Simmer the mixture for 1 1/4 hours. Add the carrots, green beans and celery and continue cooking, covered for 45 minutes or until meat and vegetable are tender. Enjoy!

Congratulations to our Contest Winners

2009-10-01T08:25:00.000-07:00

We had several entries in our various contests this year, and we thank all of you who entered. Below are the winners we have so far. We will post more updates as more winners are announced.

2009 Photography Winners

Category: Wisconsin Cranberry Marsh: 1st Place Barbara Callaway, 2nd Place Andrea Hoffman, 3rd Place Karla Roach

Category: Cranfest: 1st Place Barb Gates, 2nd Place Julie Wanke, 3rd Place Doyle Gates

Category: Wisconsin Flower & Plant: 1st Place Doyle Gates, 2nd Place Barb Gates, 3rd Place Julie Wanke

Category: Wisconsin Wildlife: 1st Place Gail McGinnis, 2nd Place Therese Michels, 3rd Place Karla Roach

Category: Wisconsin Scenery: 1st Place Julie Wanke, 2nd Place Barb Gates, 3rd Place Doyle Gates

Category: Wisconsin People: 1st Place Doyle Gates, 2nd Place David Gates, 3rd Place Julie Wanke

Best of Show: Julie Wanke

Pictorial Cancellation: Mary Schill

2009 Scarecrow Winners

1st Place & Best of Show: Cassidy Fox

2nd Place (3-way tie): Livingstones Fellowship Youth Group, Kole Cherrier, Keagan Cherrier

2009 Flower Show Winners

Category 1: 1st Place Katey Smith, 2nd Place Barb Keding, 3rd Place Deb Schulfer

Category 2: 1st Place Amanda Slagle

Category 3: 1st Place Barb Keding, 2nd Place Amanda Slagle

Category 4: 1st Place Karla Roach, 2nd Place Deb Schulfer, 3rd Place Barb Keding

Category 5: 1st Place Amanda Slagle

Thanks again to all our contestants!

Cranfest Overview 2009

2009-09-28T07:37:00.000-07:00

Well, another Cranfest has come and gone. We had some unfavorable weather this year (it was the first time it rained on our parade), but everyone still seemed to have a good time.

Coming soon to our website: We will have new photos and videos of this year's Cranfest on our website at www.cranfest.com. Be sure to check that out, as well as our facebook page!

Welcome to Cranfest 2009

2009-09-25T04:46:00.000-07:00

Welcome Cranfesters! We hope you're ready for some great fun and some fabulous buys at one of the largest arts & craft/flea market shows around.

If you're here and you need help or information, please visit our information booth on Main Street in front of the bank. If you're a vendor, please visit the green vendor information booth down Main Street.

We hope you enjoy your time at Cranfest!

Cranfest in the News

2009-09-22T10:35:00.001-07:00

Check out the article by the La Crosse Tribune: share

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Cranfest appears in Wisconsin State Journal

2009-09-20T15:09:00.001-07:00

Check out that latest Cranfest article! share

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Cranberry Pretzel Salad

2009-09-18T07:10:00.000-07:00

It's only one week til Cranfest, so start your cranberry festivities early with this tasty recipe!

Ingredients
3/4 cup melted butter
3 tablespoons light brown sugar, firmly packed
9 ounces packaged pretzels, crushed
6-ounce package cranberry gelatin
2 cups boiling water
16-ounce can whole berry cranberry sauce
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
3/4 cup granulated sugar
8 ounces whipped topping, thawed

Makes 12 servings

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Combine butter, brown sugar and crushed pretzels in bowl. Mix well. Press onto bottom of 9x13-inch baking dish. Bake for 10 minutes. Cool. Empty gelatin into medium bowl and add boiling water, stirring until dissolved. Add cranberries and mix well. Chill until partially set. Combine softened cream cheese and sugar in a medium bowl. Fold in whipped topping. Spread over baked crust. Spread cranberry/gelatin mixture over cream cheese layer. Chill overnight. Cut into squares

The Countdown Continues...

2009-09-17T09:22:00.000-07:00

Only 8 more days til Cranfest now, and some people are still scrambling to find lodging and other last details. If you're looking for local area information and the most up-to-date lodging info, visit the Tomah Chamber of Commerce at www.tomahwisconsin.com.

New Discover Wisconsin Videos

2009-09-14T08:19:00.000-07:00

Want to learn more about Cranfest? Check out a new line of videos produced by Discover Wisconsin. You'll learn about attractions, history, cranberries and much more! Check out the videos at http://video.discovermediaworks.com/warrens_cran/player.htm