Austin closed another chapter of a popular festival this weekend.

More than 100 people packed the Hormel Historic Home Friday night to listen to songs and tales at the revival of “And That’s My Story.” The storytelling festival returned after a nearly decade-long hiatus to welcome six performers from Minnesota, Wisconsin, and North Dakota.

Listeners were treated to stories ranging from life on the farm to the cultural significance of sweet potato pie, but, according to festival organizer and local storyteller Michael Cotter, the deeper meaning of the festival transcends the details of any one narrative.

“I call it magic,” Cotter said. “We spend a lot of time talking to each other, but we don’t always connect or talk about what’s really important. Stories connect people.”

Even in today’s fast-paced digital age, Cotter noted events like “And That’s My Story” can attract a diverse audience.

“People are supporting it,” Cotter said. “Stories help form community and make connections. People feel a kinship and start trusting each other.”

Bonnie Rietz, the festival’s former president, attended Friday and shared similar sentiments.

“It’s great to come out on a Friday night, in a beautiful setting, have a warm meal, and hear wonderful stories. You can just sit back, relax, and enjoy,” she said.

The National Storytelling Network sponsored the event, along with several local organizations. Nancy Schnable, director of the Austin Convention and Visitors Bureau, praised the work of all those involved.

“It’s exceeded all expectations,” she said. “We’ve had great support from the local media and others.”

Schnable also noted the positive economic impact that such an event can have on the area. She estimated that at least half of those in attendance were from out of town and were staying over in local hotels.

“It’s a great chance to promote Austin,” she said.

Besides the main concert on Friday night, the festival continued with a “Coffee and Donuts” event with the storytellers on Saturday morning. Aside from more stories and conversation from the featured performers, an open mic was available for participants to share their own stories.

“We all have stories to tell,” Cotter said. “The simplest thing can be a story if it’s true.”