From raw to finished product, visitors to Redhead Creamery’s fourth annual Curd Fest had the opportunity to see milk production in action and sample the finest in artisan cheeses.

More than 1,100 people attended the June 18 event near Brooten, Minn., at Jer-Lindy Farms LLC. The weather was exceptional, with sunny skies and strong breezes.

“This year’s Curd Fest was a smashing hit,” said Alise Sjostrom, co-owner and cheesemaker of Redhead Creamery. “We put a lot of thought into the layout and flow, based on past years, and we feel those ideas made a huge impact. We are so grateful for our partnering vendors and musicians for helping make this event so fun and unique.”

This year, Curd Fest featured its first ever cow milking contest and calf feeding event.

“Both provided opportunities to experience dairy and ask questions,” Sjostrom said. “Creating opportunities for our guests to learn about agriculture while having fun and eating good food is what it's all about.”

Around 40 volunteers helped behind the scenes as well as during the day of the event, ranging from family members to neighbors to past summer interns. Many were returning volunteers. Sjostrom said they are amazed and grateful for those eager to volunteer at Curd Fest.

“Our team of employees is the foundation of what helps make Curd Fest happen — from our farm help to the creamery staff—they all work so hard and put in a little extra effort for this really fun event,” Sjostrom added. “We talk about it all year.”

Jer-Lindy Farms is operated by original owners Jerry and Linda Jennissen (Sjostrom’s parents), and Sjostrom and her husband, Lucas. The 240-acre dairy milks around 200 registered Holstein and Brown Swiss cows.

Redhead Creamery made its first batch of cheese in 2013. The following year, Sjostrom and her family built and opened the cheese-making facility on the farm. For more information on Redhead Creamery, visit redheadcreamery.com.