The Park Rapids Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce and Tourism is turning 100 this year and will celebrate all summer long.
You will find details of photo contests that are part of the centennial on the Chamber website. With third and fourth generations returning to stay at resorts, the family cabin and Itasca State Park, unearthing old photos could be fun and might spark some interesting family conversations. What did the cabin look like before it was remodeled? Where did the water to make coffee come from? Is there a family story about bears or raccoons raiding the place?
Itasca State Park facilities are open for the season with naturalist programs, trail hikes, live music and other activities. Maybe you have historic photos of family members slip sliding the rocks where the mighty Mississippi River begins.
Akeley’s always first on the calendar of community festivals. This year’s 70th Annual Paul Bunyan Days June 22-24 celebrates the legendary figure and traditions including a giant parade.
The free summer concert series, 2nd Street Stage, invites you to downtown Park Rapids Thursdays, June 14 through Aug. 16 for live bands, a beer garden and family friendly activities. The concerts will all be on the second block of Main this season to accommodate larger audiences and there will be cornhole tournaments all 10 nights. The beer garden opens at 5 and the concerts start at 6. Go to www.parkrapidsdowntown.com to learn more about all 10 bands.
June brings the opening of our fine summer theaters and other cultural events. The Park Rapids Lakes Area Chamber web calendar guides you to schedules and other local festivities. You will find unique shopping and great places to eat morning, noon and night.
If you have never stayed here for the 4th of July, a slice of Americana awaits with an old-fashioned parade, band concert on the Fish Hook River and spectacular Rotary fireworks. The 40th Annual Park Rapids PRCA/Xtreme Bull Ride July 4 and 5 and PRCA Rodeo July 5 and 6 and other events add to the fun wrapped around Independence Day.
The Park Rapids area welcomes you any time. 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. – LuAnn Hurdlof
More Links:
Updated list of Grand Openings and Member Garage Sales
This week’s Minnesota Fishing Guide Service’s Report
Click here for a list of events and Chamber Member news emailed to you every Friday