Questions and Answers

Schleswig Wine Contest        

The Schleswig Wine Contest is a prominent feature in the Schleswig activity calendar. Started in 1976, it has grown to become one of the largest homebrew competitions in the region. Normally occurring during the third weekend in October, the contest draws both wine and beer entries from a multi-state area. It is sponsored by the Schleswig Wine Club and enjoys a reputation as a quality event.

The contest offers a nationally certified beer competition and a very knowledgeable wine judging team. It is a highlight of the oenology scene and one of its major social events. Many hobbyists come to share ideas, techniques, investigate problems and generally socialize with people of similar interest from across the region. There are usually in excess of 150 entries divided into some dozen categories. The competition is concluded by the awarding of ribbons and a banquet meal.

Calf Show Days        

The annual Calf Show Days is held in September every year. J.A. Rohwer introduced the idea in 1948 with the first pens corresponding with the 50th anniversary of Schleswig in 1949. The basic purpose of the idea was to promote the importance of beef feeding in the area and its relation to soil conservation.

 The tradition has stood the test of time. Area youth raise a “Pen of Five” cattle. The cattle are sold during the Calf Days Celebration that includes a parade and carnival rides. We like to brag we have the least expensive rides in the area. It’s a fun weekend, and a good time to reminisce with old friends and see the changes in Schleswig.

Santa Claus Day        

Santa Clause Day is an event steeped in tradition. On Santa Clause Day Santa comes to visit all the kids of the Schleswig area and gives each one a sack of goodies. The tradition originally started in the 1920’s by the Bendixen & Evers Dry Goods Store to promote their new Christmas inventory. It became so large that the city of Schleswig took the responsibility for handing out the goodies because all the merchants benefited from the large crowds. Today, the event is a Saturday morning event that features the arrival of Santa Clause with goodies and includes a craft show and lunch served by the local churches.