As a record crowd of visitors and residents said goodbye to the Winter Witch last Saturday, they also welcomed the new Ephraim Fyr Bal chieftain.

Third-generation Ephraim resident B.D. Thorp was bestowed the honor at this year's Fyr Bal, the village's take on a traditional Scandinavian midsummer festival.

Thorp was recognized for his efforts to preserve Ephraim's historic character, most recently by painting over graffiti on the Anderson Dock building. Over the years, he also has served on multiple municipal committees and volunteered with Ephraim Moravian Church.

As chieftain, Thorp was escorted across Eagle Harbor before lighting the Fyr Bal bonfire along the village shoreline.

The ceremony was just part of a day full of activities, including a visit from the Door County Bookmobile, food-eating contests, Scandinavian dancers and fireworks.

The 62nd Ephraim Fyr Bal will take place June 19, 2027.

Picture courtesy of Ephraim Business Council