Banya Fest Basics
Where?
Banya House
20796 Calmor Ave
Prior Lake MN 5572 When?
Saturday, October 5th 2024 How long?
All day baby! (4pm-9pm)
What to bring?
Just grab your towel and bathing suit. We have slavic food and drink covered. 
What is Banya?
What sets the Slavic banya apart from its Scandinavian cousin, the Finnish sauna? Ethos and tradition. While the Finnish sauna emphasizes dry heat and solemn solitude, Slavic banya celebrates the communal experience, where friends and family gather to share stories, laughter, and food. But the distinctions don't end there; the banya boasts a unique ritual involving the exfoliating oneself and others with veniki (birch whisks), a practice meant to invigorate the body and cleanse the spirit.
Rooted in Slavic tradition, the banya is more than just a place to sweat out toxins; it's a symbol of resilience, connection, and the enduring spirit of the slavic people. Through centuries of upheaval and change, the banya has remained a steadfast beacon of warmth and hospitality, welcoming all who seek solace in its embrace. Banya offers a distinctly Slavic experience—one that transcends mere physical cleansing to encompass a deeper sense of community and belonging. С легким паром!
What is Venik?
In the Slavic banya tradition, "venik" or whisk treatments involve the use of bundles of leafy branches, typically birch or oak, to gently beat or brush the body. This uniquely Slavic practice not only serves to stimulate circulation, exfoliate the skin, and invigorate the senses with fragrant essential oils but also holds deeper cultural significance.
Rooted in Slavic ethos, venik treatments are believed to symbolize purification of both the body and the spirit, with the rhythmic beating thought to dispel negative energy and promote mental clarity. Participants often emerge from venik sessions feeling not only physically rejuvenated but also spiritually cleansed, embodying a profound connection to their heritage and the communal spirit of the banya. Plus, you gotta admit, it’s kinda hot.
VENDORS
Are you a sauna entrepreneur? Do you have a mobile sauna or sell sauna related merch? Come and be a part of Banya Fest! We aim to double our attendance every year and grow to be the largest Banya Fest in the United States!
Contact us. Grow with us!
Shoot us an email or call us at (507)-412-6542