October 2011
Fantastic fall days
The only word for fall in the north woods right now is fantastic. With leaves turned deep red, golden yellow and bright orange, the sky looks brighter blue than ever and lakes mirror nature’s changing palette.
It’s time to hike, bike or simply gaze at the wonder of it all and let your senses take in the comforting scent of crisp fall days and appreciate the fact that the only sounds you hear are the crunch of leaves and pine needles under your feet, the occasional chatter of squirrels getting ready for winter or geese overhead noisily winging their way southward.
Some hunters have already headed to the woods and water, paddlers relish one more morning cruise around the lake, anglers fish one more time on a sunny afternoon and we burn logs in the fireplace to warm up.
The Park Rapids Lakes Area remains a beautiful, peaceful place to head outdoors, relax or enjoy some local culture. There’s always lots to see and do.
Every Saturday in October, Carters Red Wagon Farm (14766 119th Avenue) is hosting Pumpkin Parties. All your favorite activities – wagon rides, live scare crows, the pumpkin propeller, photo ops, concessions and more – offer family fun. You’ll also find a sunflower maze, straw bale maze and a 4.5-acre corn maze in the shape of Minnesota and a loon! A concession stand is also available with homemade treats, all-beef hot dogs, soup, cider and more.
A legendary Czech band, Druha Trava, will launch a month-long, U.S. tour with a concert at 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 13 at the Park Rapids Area High School auditorium. Tickets will be available at the door.
The Minnesota Folklore Theater Children’s Theater will present the beloved play, “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe,” Oct. 14-23.
The Arts Downtown PR series will continue from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 20 in downtown Park Rapids. This event is designed to bring audiences to see and hear visual artists, musicians, writers and other artists in businesses in downtown Park Rapids on the Third Thursday of the month year round. A schedule of times various artists will be performing will be available at downtown businesses and the Park Rapids Lakes Area Chamber office as well as on the Park Rapids Downtown Business Association website (www.parkrapidsdowntown.com). The public is invited to participate in these events and encouraged to make a free will donation to the artists.
Main Street businesses will hand out treats to colorful, costumed characters from 3 to 6 p.m. Monday, Oct. 31 celebrating Halloween.
Many other activities and events to celebrate fall are on the October calendar. The Chamber Website has all the information you need to put together a memorable vacation or weekend visit. If you want help or have questions, call our friendly staff at 800-247-0054 to learn more.