Explore Minnesota Events

June 14, 2011

This report is brought to you by Explore Minnesota Tourism

Southern Minnesota

Levee Park in Winona will be the site of the annual community Steamboat Days celebration, Wednesday, June 15 through Sunday, June 19. Enjoy five days of carnival games & midway rides, live music, boat races, a Grande Parade, kids, power pedal pull, kids’ fishing contest, Budweiser Clydesdales on display, “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” performances, garage sales, a kiddie parade, “The Human Cannonball” shows, steamboat models, a craft sale, car show, and fireworks over the Mississippi River! 507-452-0735; http://www.winonasteamboatdays.com

The 2011 Faribault Heritage Celebration will be held Wednesday, June 15 through Saturday, June 18, at Central Park and other locations throughout the city of Faribault. This community festival includes carnival games and rides, live music, dance, beer gardens, a Soap Box Derby, farmer’s market, citywide garage sales, Kids’ Fishing Contest, Strawberry Shortcake & Cathedral tours, Historic Alexander Faribault House tours, Stone House bus tour, kid’s fun run and the Grande Parade. 1-800-658-2354; http://www.faribaultheritagedays.com

Friday, June 17 through Tuesday, June 21, head to the city of Mountain Lake for the 77th Annual Mountain Lake Pow Wow Festival. Known to be Minnesota’s oldest running community celebration, festivities include a Grande Parade, midway games and rides, antique car show and parade, kiddie parade, food and craft booths, a talent contest, petting zoo, raffle, a pageant, and a Freedom Riders Rally. 1-866-685-2531; http://www.mountainlakemn.com

Rochesterfest 2011 will take place throughout the city of Rochester from Friday, June 17 through Sunday, June 26. Festivities include the Hambone Music Festival, “Much Ado About Nothing” performances, a Rockin’ 50′s dance, “The Complete Works of William Shakespeare,” bed races, Rochester Kennel Club K-9 Carnival, Oxbow Park/Zollman Zoo Feed the Critters shows, a Strongest Man contest, tours of Historic Mayowood Mansion, a Summer Solstice hike, walking tours, a Treasure Hunt, PossAbilities Ice Cream Social with carnival games, Million $ Hole In One Golf Shoot Out, Kids’ Fishing Contest, the Rochester Kiwanis Parent/Child Free Fair, and much more! http://www.rochesterfest.com

Lanesboro Legacy Week will be held Saturday, June 18 through Saturday, June 25, throughout the city of Lanesboro. Nestled in the scenic bluffs and farmland of Southeastern Minnesota, Lanesboro is a mecca for history, the arts, and outdoor recreation. Just some of the highlights include a public reception for “Art in the Park” artists, “A Girl Named Vincent” at the St. Mane Theatre, the documentary film “Waste Land,” “The Little Shop of Horrors” at the Commonweal Theatre, Lanesboro Inns’ garden tours, a “tree tops experience” at the Eagle Bluff Ropes Course, an Old Buzzards Birding Eco Tour of the Root River watershed, and the Art in the Park Father’s Day Arts Festival, with more than 85+ arts & crafts booths, live music, theatre performances, local foods and unique kids’ activities at Sylvan Park. 1-800-944-2670; www.lanesboro.com

Lake City will hold their 40th Annual Water Ski Days Festival, Friday through Sunday, June 24-26, in a celebration of the invention of water skiing on Lake Pepin. Festivities include live music and entertainment each night, an arts & crafts fair, water ski show, Venetian Boat parade, classic car show, carnival, beer tents, bean bag tournament, and a Grande Parade. 1-800-369-4123; http://www.lakecity.org/waterskidays.html

The Dawson Riverfest will be held June 24-26 at the Dawson City Park, with numerous fun activities and events including fireworks, a parade, craft & flea market, the unveiling of the annual Honorary Gnome, ‘The Price is Right,’ canoe races, beer gardens & food stands, a fishing contest, water fights, an antique tractor, car & motorcycle display, waffle feed, and Church in the Park. 320/769-2981; http://www.dawsonchamber.com/event_calendar.htm

The city of Henderson will hold Sauerkraut Days, June 24-26. Highlights include a Kraut car cruise, 5K Kraut run, tractor rides, kiddie parade, Grande parade, Miss Henderson Coronation, the World Champion Sauerkraut eating contest, car show & mini rods, live music outdoors, a Cabbage Toss, free Frank’s Kraut! 507/248-3234; http://kraut.hendersonmn.com/Henderson_Sauerkraut_Days/Events.html

Twin Cities Greater Metropolitan vicinity

A blue-and-yellow Grand Chapiteau at the Mall of America’s north parking lot in Bloomington will be the site of the Cirque du Soleil OVO Big Top Tour through Sunday, June 19. OVO is a colorful ecosystem teeming with life, where insects work, eat, crawl, play, fight and look for love in non-stop movement. The insects’ home is a world of biodiversity and beauty filled with noisy action and moments of quiet emotion. The production is jaw-dropping entertainment for the entire family. 415/274-2552; http://www.cirquedusoleil.com

The city of Buffalo will hold their annual Buffalo Days celebration through Sunday, June 19. Just some of the many highlights include a Fly-In Pancake Breakfast, Buffalo Car Show/Wright County Car Club, craft & vendor show, Buffalo Community Orchestra Summer Pop concert, Buffalo Library used book sale and summer reading program, Family Fun Day, petting zoo, Family Toy Workshop, medallion hunt, County Line Square Dancers demonstrations, carnival with rides, Buffalo Days Bingo, Movie in the Park, beer gardens, KRWC Road Show with music, games and prizes, 14th Annual Buffalo Days Fishing Clinic, kiddie parade, Dog Agility Show, pony rides, and fireworks over Buffalo Lake! 763/682-4902; http://www.buffalochamber.org

The 46th Annual Tater Daze Festival will be held Thursday through Saturday, June 16-18, at Noble Sports Park in Brooklyn Park, with a parade featuring over 9 marching bands, fireworks, a carnival, Mashed Potato Wrestling, a craft fair, live entertainment, the Tater Daze Idol Battle of the Bands, BP’s Got Talent talent show, kiddie parade, children’s activities, Father’s Day Picnic, petting zoo, and festival discounts. 763/493-8013; http://www.brooklynpark.org/sitepages/pid91.php

The city of White Bear Lake will hold the 44th Annual White Bear Lake Manitou Days, Thursday, June 16 through Monday, July 4. The fun kicks-off on Thursday evening, June 16, with live entertainment, fine art, a variety of foods, children’s activities, a farmers’ market, and classic car show during Marketfest. Highlights the weekend of June 17-19 include Yoga on the Beach, community-wide garage sales, a Children’s Fishing Contest, Papa Bear bike ride, massages on the beach, pontoon rides for all ages, an arts & crafts fair, classic and vintage boat show, a Nautical swap meet, Sandcastle & Creatures Building Contest, the Pickle Bucket boat races, Community Picnic at Railroad Park, water ski shows, Championship Fathering presentations, and a Father’s Day 5K Fun Run & Walk! 651/653-5122; http://www.explorewhitebear.org, http://www.manitoudays.webs.com

The Minnesota Street Rod Association’s (MSRA) Back to the 50′s Weekend will be held Friday through Sunday, June 17-19, at the Minnesota State Fairgrounds in St. Paul. Come see more than 11,000 street rods, customs, classics and restored vehicles, dating 1964 & earlier. Other highlights include more than 350 vendors and automotive exhibits throughout the Fairgrounds, the MSRA Kids’ World with free games and activities, a Kids’ Pedal Tractor Pull, a Ladies’ Showcase with fashion, pampering and food demonstrations, a Cruise-N Arts & Craft Fair, the “Ignitors” Youth Rodders’ Show, a Hot Rod auction featuring over 400 vehicles, daily outdoor music concerts, and a gigantic Swap Meet in the Midway. 651/641-1992; http://www.msra.com

Nicollet Commons Park in Burnsville will be the site of the 5th Annual International Festival of Burnsville on Saturday, June 18, with food & vendor tents, cultural displays, dancers, musicians and other entertainers showcasing Burnsville’s diverse population and traditions. 952/895-4400; http://www.burnsville.org/index.aspx?NID=453

Howard Lake Good Neighbor Days will be held Thursday, June 23 through Sunday, June 26, throughout the city of Howard Lake, a Queen’s Tea, Sail into Good Neighbor Days Kickoff Banquet, pontoon rides, ice cream and fresh strawberries, root beer floats, beer gardens, rock climbing wall, the KRWC Road Show with music, games and prizes, kiddie parade, fireworks, 29th Annual Fishing Contest at Lions Park, craft sale, book sale, strawberry shortcake, 21st Annual One Block Run, carnival games, turtle races, outdoor community church service, car show, Grande Day parade, raffle drawing for cash prizes, and more! 612/910-1724; http://howardlakegoodneighbordays.webs.com/2011scheduleofevents.htm

The Eagan Community Center and Festival Grounds will be the site of the Eagan Art Festival, Saturday and Sunday, June 25 & 26, with fine art and original handmade crafts by over 100 artisans. In addition, enjoy music performances, art activities for all ages, and a variety of mouth-watering foods. And on Friday and Saturday evenings, June 24 & 25, don’t miss the Shakespeare Festival offered at the beautiful Theater in the Woods outdoor amphitheater in Eagan, with full-length Shakespeare plays. 1-866-324-2620; http://www.eaganartfestival.org, http://www.caponiartpark.org/programs/shakespearefestival

Central Minnesota

The city of Hutchinson will hold their 69th Annual Jaycee Water Carnival from Monday, June 13 through from Sunday, June 19, with a Water Parade, Teddy Bear Band Concert, a midway and carnival, medallion hunt, Music In The Park, Pie In The Park, canoe races, outdoor dance & live music, Miss Hutchinson Pageant, the 8K Run By The River, water ski show, the Taste Of Water Carnival, Kiddie Parade, Bicycle Give Away, classic car show, and fireworks display. And, don’t miss the NTPA Power Pull Nationals at the Mcleod County Fairgrounds in Hutchinson, Friday and Saturday, June 17 & 18. 1-800-572-6689; http://www.explorehutchinson.com

The 2011 Little Falls Dam Festival will be held Friday through Sunday, June 17-19, throughout Little Falls. This family event focuses on the river history of the area, with “LaCompagnie HSP” fur trade era historical re-enactments along the Mississippi River, live music, a talent contest, street dance, parade, carnival, petting zoo, arts and crafts, airplane rides, sidewalk sales, the Texaco Country Showdown, and spectacular fireworks display! 1-800-325-5916; http://www.littlefallsmn.com/DamFestival.php

The city of Perham will host the Perham Turtle Fest from Saturday, June 18 through Sunday, June 26, with the Wacky Quacky Ducky Derby with prizes at Zorbaz on Little Pine Lake, a medallion hunt, Chuck-a-Duck off the Zorbaz dock, turtle races, a Dog Expo, Kiddie & Dog Parade, citywide garage sales, arts & craft show, the Teddy Bear parade, fireworks, live music, inflatables, Pork Chops On A Stick, a dunk tank, water wars, mechanical bull, laser tag, Perham express train rides, kiddie train rides, horse and carriage rides, Perham Idol singing competition, street dance, beer gardens, and more! 218/346-7710; http://www.perham.com

Granite City Days will be held Thursday through Sunday, June 23-26, at various locations throughout the city of St. Cloud. This annual festival includes the Lemonade Concert & Art Fair, Liberty Savings Block Party, Granite City Days 5K, Grande Parade, concerts, talent show, canoe ride, performance of “A Girl Named Vincent,” Airport Open House, fishing derby, Family Fun Day, and more! 320/251-4170; http://www.granitecitydays.com And while in St. Cloud, check out Rapids River Days held June 24 & 25 in nearby Sauk Rapids, with the Rapids River Days Parade, Rapids River Food Fest, Minnesota State Strongman Championships, Fire Department Waterball Fights and Rapids River Ducky Races! 320/252-8444; http://www.ci.sauk-rapids.mn.us

Oak Leaf Park and downtown Glencoe will be the site of Glencoe Days 2011, Friday and Saturday, June 24 & 25, to honoring Glencoe’s rural heritage. On Friday evening, enjoy the annual corn feed, bingo, Kids’ Fun Zone and youth activities, Balloon Blast contest, classic car cruise, Beer Pong, Minute To Win It, and live music by local acts. Festivities on Saturday include a craft & antique fair, co-ed mud volleyball tournament, Glencoe Days Fun Run & Walk, Kids’ Fun Zone and youth activities, bingo, kiddie tractor pedal pull, Glencoe Days’ Parade, Pie in the Park, fireworks and live music. 320/864-3650; http://www.glencoemn.org

The Pine River Summerfest will take Friday through Sunday, June 24-26, in Pine River, with a parade, children’s theater production, sidewalk sales, library book sale, children’s activities, Pine River Firemen’s street dance, Lions Club fly-in & drive-in breakfast, duck races, food fair, and Pine River Art Club art show. 218/587-4000; http://www.pinerivermn.com/Festivals_Summerfest.htm

Northwest Minnesota

The city of Bemidji will be the site of Book Festival 2011 on Friday and Saturday, June 17 & 18, at the Bemidji Library, with presentations, as well as readings for children and adults. Other activities offered throughout the weekend of June 17-19 include “Forever Plaid” theater performances, Lake Bemidji Summer Concert Series performances, Movie Night at the Waterfront, Midsommer Fest, and Stock Car Races! 1-877-250-5959; http://www.visitbemidji.com

A Scandinavian Festival will be offered by the city of Roseau on Friday and Saturday, June 17 & 18. Featured will be Scandinavian vendors, artists, demonstrations, storytelling and smorgasbord, as well as a music tent, variety show, games, strolling musicians, pancake breakfast, and fresh lefse. All events are free, except for the smorgasbord and entertainment Saturday evening. 1-800-815-1824; http://www.city.roseau.mn.us

Downtown Longville will be the site of numerous, fun Community Festivities on Saturday, June 18, including the Longville Car Show, Longville Firemen’s Turkey BBQ Feed, a pie sale, and an arts & crafts fair. 1-800-756-7583; http://www.longville.com

The Moondance Jammin’ Country Fest will be held at Moondance Ranch in Walker, Thursday through Saturday, June 23-25, with national performances such as Dwight Yoakam, Dierks Bentley, Big & Rich, and Gretchen Wilson! Camping is available. Moondance Ranch is located 6.5 miles E of Walker on Hwy 200. 1-877-666-6526; http://www.jammincountry.com

Sister Wolf Books in the town of Dorset will be the site of the Festival of Authors & Artists all day Friday, June 24, with 30 Minnesota authors indoors discussing and signing their books. In addition, there will an outdoor art fair, and special offers at local restaurants and stores. The town of Dorset is located midway between Park Rapids and Nevis, just off Hwy 34. 218/732-7565; http://www.sisterwolfbooks.com

The annual will be held Saturday, June 25, at the Blackduck Wayside Rest in Blackduck, when area lady slippers typically bloom. The event celebrates the area’s natural environment, history, cultural heritage, and diverse arts, with live music, Art Around Town, a nature hike, Lady Slipper bus tours, children’s activities, and tours of historic CCC Camp Rabideau. And on Sunday, June 26, check out the Eighth Annual Walleye Classic on Blackduck Lake. Blackduck is located at the top of the Lady Slipper Scenic Byway (Beltrami County Highway 39). Please note that highway construction is taking place on the south end of the route. 218/760-4611; http://www.ladyslipperscenicbyway.org/festival.html

Northeast Minnesota

The Judy Garland Historic Home and other venues throughout the city of Grand Rapids will be the site of the 36th Annual Judy Garland Festival, Thursday through Saturday, June 16-18. Highlights include a book signing by Mr. Andy Williams and a gala dinner and award ceremony bestowing the Judy Garland Lifetime Achievement Award to Mr. Williams, with video clips of the two performing together. In addition, enjoy a Get Acquainted Reception, Meet Me In St. Louis stage productions, Judy Jeopardy Game, The Dressing of a Legend, social hours, The Wizard of Oz Film on the Big Screen, the Oz For Kids: A Primer activities, and Mingle with a Munchin. 1-800-664-JUDY; http://www.judygarlandmuseum.com/festival/SCHEDULE2011.pdf

The Wooden Boat Show and Summer Solstice Festival will be held Friday through Sunday, June 17-19, at the North House Folk School in Grand Marais. This is the North House Folk School’s biggest celebration of the year, with wooden boat displays, boat building workshops, stories of boat builders, sailors and travelers, adventure travel planning, a Boats-To-Tools auction, the Lake Superior Chowder Experience, and On The Harbor Games. 1-888-387-9762; http://www.northhouse.org

The Wolf Ridge Open House will be held Saturday, June 18, at Wolf Ridge in Finland, with full day of free, outdoor fun including rock climbing, adventure ropes, site tours, a live raptor and porcupine program, hiking and canoeing. 1-800-523-2733; http://www.wolf-ridge.org

Olcott Park in Virginia will be the site of the Land of the Loon Festival, Saturday and Sunday, June 18 & 19, to celebrate the culture and customs of the diverse backgrounds of the settlers of Northeastern Minnesota. This two-day festival kicks-off with a parade through historic Virginia, followed by delicious ethnic food samples, colorful music from countries around the world, and hundreds of artists offering spectacular hand-crafted items in Olcott Park. 218/749-5555; http://www.landoftheloonfestival.com

The 11th Annual Boundary Waters Blues Festival will be held Friday through Sunday, June 23-25, at the Itasca County Fairgrounds in Grand Rapids, with three full days of blues music in a fun festival atmosphere – over 20 performers in all! http://www.rangeblues.com. And while in Grand Rapids on Saturday, June 25, check out the Be a Lumberjack Children’s Program at the Forest History Center, the Petting Zoo at the Children’s Discovery Museum, and the 5th Annual Young Angler Tournament at Tioga Beach on Pokegama Lake. 1-800-355-9740; http://www.VisitGrandRapids.com

The Pine County Fairgrounds and other sites in the city of Pine City will be the site of Freedom Fest, Friday through Sunday, June 24-26. The weekend kicks-off with Art in the Park on Friday night. On Saturday, enjoy a car show, antique tractor show, children’s activities and carnival games, a triathlon, kayak/canoe paddle, kids’ bike parade, live music and street dance , K-9 demonstration, train rides, a performance of “Joseph & the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” by the Pine City Heritage Players, and fireworks display. And stay for Praise in the Park on Sunday. And while in Pine City on Friday and Saturday, June 24 & 25, head to the North West Company Fur Post for an Arrowheads & Stone Tools Workshop. 320/322-4040;  http://www.pinecitychamber.com, http://www.pinecitychamber.com/pdfs/FreedomFest

The 7th Annual CHUM Rhubarb Festival will be held at the First Lutheran Church on London Road in downtown Duluth on Saturday, June 25, with everything rhubarb, as well as “Little Shop of Horrors” by Duluth’s Playground Theater, games, crafts, live music, auctions, stage shows, a Children’s Tent, Iron Chef contest, Smart Phone scavenger hunt, a performance by Peter Mayer, and more! 218/720-6521; http://www.chumduluth.org/rhubarbfestival.htm. And while in Duluth, June 25 & 26, head to the Park Point Recreation Area for the 40th Annual Park Point Art Fair, with 120 juried artists participating! 218/428-1916; http://www.parkpointartfair.org

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