Every autumn, the town of Finland, Minnesota, gathers for a cherished annual tradition: the Harvest Booya Festival. Last year, the Friends of Finland organization decided to honor the exceptionally dedicated individuals whose tireless work and support make Finland a better community for all. To do this, they created the Sisu Community Impact Recognition Award, which is presented each year during the festival.
This year, the honor was awarded to Ron Van Bergan. Along with the award, each recipient receives a gift certificate to a local business. Ron’s wife, Brenda, received the award in the past for her own service. Over the years, Ron cared for and maintained the softball field at the Clair Nelson Center. He also took time to fly kites with kids during the summer camps. Through his work with the DNR and nearly 50 years with the Finland Fire Department, he helped care for our natural surroundings and protect the community. He even organized groups to cut and deliver firewood to community members during the harsh winters, when they needed it most. He also helped establish Legacy Lake for local veterans. Not to mention his own service to his country by serving in the military. In 1983, Ron and Brenda placed a cross at the top of Silver Hill. What began as an action from two dedicated citizens has become a beloved Finland landmark every holiday season. For many people, seeing that cross is a familiar and comforting part of coming home, celebrating the season, and feeling connected to the community.
As elders in the community, Ron and Brenda have contributed a lifetime of dedication. No job has ever been too big or too small for them. Ron’s service over the years is endless, impacting the town in deeply positive ways. Brenda is also a talented poet, and an excerpt from one of her poems is actually featured on the award plaques. The entire community extends its gratitude to all the Sisu Recognition Award recipients for their efforts to support and improve Finland. They are truly treasured community members.
The Harvest Booya Festival celebrates the autumn harvest with rich food and warm fellowship. The 2026 festival marks the sixth year that Dan and Kaylee, owners of the Baptism River BBQ food truck, have coordinated the event. Each year, they gather locally raised and harvested ingredients from Lake, Cook, and St. Louis counties to make their signature Booya stew, with most of the produce sourced directly from Finland. The local farmers’ hard work and labor of love are celebrated and enjoyed by all. The stew itself is prepared over many hours, simmering through the night leading up to the event.
Before Dan and Kaylee took the helm, the festival was run by the Finland Festivals Committee. A major contributor to its success was Stacey Breden, who managed the event records and festival operations with the help of dedicated committee members. When the COVID-19 pandemic caused a pause in 2020, the committee passed the torch to Dan and Kaylee.
The famous Booya stew is made with a wide variety of ingredients, including locally sourced pork, beef, and chicken (using the bones for stock and meat for the stew). It is packed with potatoes, rutabaga, carrots, onions, garlic, celery, kale, and fresh herbs like parsley, sage, rosemary, and thyme, then seasoned with allspice, salt, and pepper.
The festival is a true collaborative effort supported by the Finland Food Chain, Friends of Finland, Lovin’ Lake County, and local farmers. Many friends and family members contribute their time by chopping vegetables, stirring pots, serving food, and cleaning up. Thanks to this community teamwork, the Booya Fest is an annual success. This year they served over 200 bowls of stew.
Held at the Clair Nelson Center, the versatile indoor and outdoor space ensured the festivities could continue rain or shine. Attendees enjoyed a wide range of activities, including live music, local vendors, fresh apple cider pressing, and apple pie making. As part of a beloved long-standing tradition, local church members made fresh lefse, while Laurie Melby’s cheesecake completely sold out. Children enjoyed a variety of activities, and the crowd was entertained by live music from the Aho Family Band (the Northern Stars) and Robin & Anja.
All proceeds raised during the festival are deposited into a dedicated Booya bank account to keep the event running year after year.
Organizers are always looking for volunteers to help with kitchen prep, serving, and cleanup. If you are interested in getting involved, please contact Dan via email at Dan.C@friendsoffinland.org.
