October 2012 Fantastic fall days As the busy pace of summer traffic on lakes and byways has slowed and the fall harvest is winding down, the north woods grow quieter. On a walk, the only sounds you hear are the crunch of leaves and pine needles underfoot, the occasional chatter of squirrels putting away food for winter or geese overhead noisily winging their way southward. Leaves on maples, aspen and birch have turned deep red and golden yellow, making the sky look brighter blue than ever. 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 air. 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. It may not be too late to sign up for the 10th Annual Fall Color Tour on the Lake Country Scenic Byway Thursday, Oct. 4. A coach bus will bring participants to a variety of interesting stops in the Detroit Lakes, Park Rapids and Walker areas. Lunch is included in the ticket price. For more information, contact the Park Rapids Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce at 218-732-4111. Every Saturday in October, Carters Red Wagon Farm (14766 119th Avenue) is hosting Pumpkin Parties. Admission includes three of mazes: a six-acre corn maze of George Washington, a sunflower Maze of Mirth and the kid-friendly hay bale maze. In addition, dozens of activities, such as giant pumpkin boats, a super slick slide, mini-farm golf, the popular wagon ride (what will you see in the woods this year?) and more will entertain kids of all ages. The Farm also has great concessions, including delicious mini-donuts and a “Burger Boat.” https://www.redwagonfarm.net/ The Arts Downtown PR series continues Thursday, Oct. 18 with a free Legacy event in partnership with the Park Rapids Area Library. Celebrate 100 years of Woody Guthrie music with Tony Glover, Charlie Maguire and Pop Wagner at 6 p.m. at the library. These three Twin Cities artists will present a true celebration of the music and the icon Woody represented. Arts Downtown PR 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. Main Street businesses will hand out treats to trick or treaters from 3 to 6 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 31. Watching the parade of hundreds of colorful, costumed characters is part of the fun. 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.