Harry Müntener, you have founded a new "Buchserfest" association. What is the composition of the organizing committee?

The new OC team is broadly based. I am supported by 11 people as head of the OC and market: Mirco Keller is responsible for security, Susanna Büchel is in charge of the secretariat, Simon Gabathuler and Remo Sturzenegger take care of the finances, Mario Schneider and Hasi Argjend are responsible for graphics and social media. Valeska Bischof, Riccardo Robbi and Michael Eberli are responsible for communications, Silvia Montonato is responsible for the program and Franziska Lüchinger is the contact person for the market drivers. The main purpose of the new association is to ensure, organize and carry out the annual Buchserfest. Members of the association can be natural and legal persons as well as partnerships who recognize and promote the purpose of the association.

At the beginning of the year, you held a future workshop for all interested parties. What was the main concern of the participants?

In general, it was first decided that this year's Buchserfest should take place. After the long-standing organizing committee stepped down, it was uncertain whether the event would take place this year. All participants in the workshop were able to contribute their ideas and wishes for this year's Buchserfest. The desire to reduce and regulate the music at the stands stood out in particular. In addition, associations based in Buchs should participate more in the Buchserfest. A core group emerged from the participants, which today forms the new OC team.

You are aiming for even stronger regional roots. How does this manifest itself?

The Buchserfest is 40 years old. We are trying to provide the Buchserfest with broad support at various levels so that it is secured for the next 40 years. We see the local associations as an important factor in this. We maintain a regular exchange with them, as we are convinced that they will also benefit from the continued existence of the festival. With a stand at the Buchserfest, they can show their positive side and boost their club coffers. This year, for example, we have succeeded in getting FC Buchs to participate and present itself again. We are not aiming for regional isolation, but we do not see any added value in the participation of wine sellers, pizza stands or restaurants from more distant regions such as Basel or Zurich. Our aim is to focus primarily on regional service providers. Nevertheless, we are open to involving external providers as long as they can usefully improve or supplement the offerings at our festival.

What new features can visitors look forward to?

The social media presence is certainly new. Visitors can now find out about the Buchserfest in advance on Instagram and Facebook. Not only will there be information about the event, but stand operators will also have their say in short interviews. Visitors can share photos and videos under the hashtag #40jahrebuchserfest. There will be a colourful and varied program on the Buchserfest, or BUFE for short, stage in the Gass from 1 pm. Among others, the Mexican folk group LUNA and the Los Mangos dance school will be performing on stage. There will also be a lacing demonstration by the Pontonier Verein.
Our head of security has optimized various documentation and procedures. The security plan is completely new and we are implementing it consistently. At the suggestion of local residents, we have also significantly increased the number of toilets and improved the signage. Extra buses, the Nez Rouge transport service and the Buchs cab companies ensure safe travel to and from the event.

What will stay the same?

Many things remain unchanged for the first edition under new management. The former organizing committee has done a great job over the past few years and we can build on the tried and tested: The party will start again this year with a "warm-up" on Friday evening, August 23. From 7.30 pm, almost 20 stands will present their offerings - accompanied by a variety of music and culinary delights. We are sticking to the returnable drinks system to minimize the impact on the environment. There will also be a Kids Trophy for the children this year. Their dexterity and skills will be tested at various stations: Barrenchallenge, ropes course and rifle shooting are just three of a total of 13 exciting tasks to be solved. After successful participation, the children can collect a prize from FC Buchs (post 7, stand no. 37). The popular balloon artist will also be there: He can be found on the car-free Bahnhofstrasse on Saturday from 9 am to 5 pm.

Thank you very much for the interview, Harry. We wish you and the entire OC team every success and all guests an unforgettable Buchserfest 2024.

Thank you very much. I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the dedicated helpers, our sponsors and the entire organization team for their commitment. You are all crucial to the success of Buchserfest 2024.

You can find detailed information about the Buchserfest at www.bufe.ch.