We have every reason t
o think spring will arrive early this year: good news for the winter weary anxious to spend more time outdoors.
Promising signs have appeared. Ice is either gone from small lakes or retreating from shore. Bird songs last heard in the fall have returned and patches of green grass are showing.
Community organizations have kicked into high gear planning summer events and festivals. The Chamber events committee is working on the Minnesota Bike Opener May 21 and other summer events. The Downtown Business Association has scheduled the bands for 2nd Street Stage. The Northern Light Opera Company is auditioning for “Annie Get Your Gun.” Summer’s calendar is filling fast.
April starts with a Niijii Radio show, “Minnesota Mixdown,” at Armory Square April 1. The Heartland Concert series wraps up with two headliners in April and the Park Rapids Classic Chorale will present spring concerts April 22 and 24. A Flower & Garden Home Show April 30-May 1 at Armory Square delivers the promise of summer.
In 2016, Itasca State Park and Minnesota State Parks will be celebrating 125 years! The parks are planning special activities to celebrate the quasquicentennial, including a-hike-a-month on the North Country Trail, Mysteries in History Hikes, Itasca’s Wildlife Wonders Series, She Had Nerve and a Big Gun-The Mary Gibbs Story and more. Mark your calendar for the weekend of July 31 and celebrate at a big birthday party for Itasca.
Our new Discovery Guide shows many ways to Catch a Memory anytime at the lake, in the woods or enjoying a local celebration. Resorts and other lodging accommodations in the Park Rapids area invite guests to stay at the center of this extraordinary region and will help visitors realize their dream vacation. The Chamber website can also assist with your plans and offers a way to order your picture-packed Discovery Guide.
It is part of life here that we are optimists at the beginning of each new season and its progression of change. Our accommodations become your personal retreat and our wonderful community is your home away from home. If you don’t want to wait for summer, April can be a quiet time for a leisurely visit to see nature in transition, shop or just relax.
If you need help planning a memorable and affordable visit, need more information about the area or have questions, call our friendly staff at 800-247-0054 to learn more.