The streets of Hosterville came alive this weekend as the beloved Hoster-Folks Festival returned after a three-year absence, bringing with it the familiar sounds of cheering crowds, live music, and community celebration.

“It feels like we can finally breathe again,” said longtime resident Martha Jenkins, 67, as she watched the opening parade make its way down Main Street. “Hoster-Folks isn’t just an event for us—it’s part of our identity.”

The festival, which traces its roots back to 1887 when the Hoster brewing family established the town’s first major employment center, has traditionally served as both a cultural touchstone and economic boost for the region. Local officials estimate that this year’s three-day event will bring approximately $2.3 million to the local economy.

Mayor Robert Lansing officially reopened the festival with the traditional tapping of a ceremonial keg, a nod to the town’s brewing heritage. “After everything our community has weathered these past few years, seeing Hoster-Folks return in full force represents more than just a celebration—it’s a symbol of our resilience,” Lansing told the enthusiastic crowd.

The festival’s return wasn’t without challenges. Organizing committee chair Samantha Wilkins described the difficulties in coordinating the event after such a long break. “Many of our vendors had moved on to other ventures, and we had to rebuild relationships. But the community response was overwhelming—everyone wanted to be part of bringing Hoster-Folks back.”

Local businesses reported exceptional turnout, with hotels booked to capacity and restaurants experiencing wait times of up to two hours. “This is the kind of problem we’re happy to have,” said James Moretti, owner of Moretti’s Family Restaurant. “I’ve had to call in family members who don’t even work here normally just to keep up with demand.”

The festival’s traditional competitions have returned as well, including the popular barrel roll race and the Hoster-Folks baking championship. Seventeen-year-old Emma Chen took home the junior division baking title with her interpretation of the classic Hoster-Folks sourdough pretzel, a recipe she learned from her grandmother.

“Winning means everything because this festival has been part of my life since I was a baby,” Chen said. “Having it back makes our town feel whole again.”

Not all elements of the festival returned unchanged. Organizers introduced several new features, including expanded children’s activities and a craft beer pavilion showcasing regional breweries—a modernized homage to the town’s brewing past.

Long-time attendees and newcomers alike praised the atmosphere of community spirit. “I’ve never seen so many people just genuinely happy to be in the same place together,” said first-time visitor Troy Martinez, who traveled from neighboring Greenfield. “You can tell this means everything to them.”

As the festival continues through Sunday, the Hoster-Folks cheering shows no signs of subsiding, with Saturday’s main stage concert and Sunday’s closing ceremonies expected to draw record crowds.

“We’re back,” said Wilkins, “and if the energy of this crowd is any indication, Hoster-Folks isn’t going anywhere again.”