November 2022
Greeting card moments lie ahead
The pace has slowed as we anticipate the approaching holidays. Golden tamaracks ring small lakes and ponds, geese make their noisy overhead passage to warmer places and woodland critters from squirrels to white tailed deer gather and browse ahead of winter.
It is our tradition to celebrate two holidays in November: the Firearms Deer Hunting Opener and Thanksgiving. Hunters are occupied with siting in their rifles, airing their blaze orange gear and checking the weather forecast for Nov. 5. Nowadays, many women hunt, too, but traditional “hunting widows” begin shopping for home and the holidays. Find a craft and vendor show Nov. 5 at Park Rapids Century School and explore our shops and stores for holiday decor and gifts with no standing in line, great service and friendly smiles. They’ll help you find what you need and it’s likely you will find something you want. Then treat yourself to lunch or dinner, a snack or a great cup of coffee. Downtown Park Rapids has several new businesses so if you’ve been here
before, you can expect to find something new. Show your extra love for local, independent businesses on Small Business Saturday, Nov. 26.
The Park Rapids Area Community Band is preparing for a Fall Concert at 3 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 20 at the Park Rapids High School Auditorium. The concert will highlight two genres of music. The first half will be traditional band music and will feature two soloists within the band. The second half will include more holiday music
and pieces associated with winter.
On Thanksgiving morning, burn off some calories before the feast at the 8th Annual Turkey Trot 5K/Fun Run and Walk sponsored by Heartland Homes. Registration starts at 8 a.m. in the lobby of Essentia Clinic/CHI St. Joseph’s Health.
The tree lighting on Main Street the Friday after Thanksgiving offers a Norman Rockwell moment to share with friends and family. Festivities begin with a Yuletide Sampler at participating Downtown stores from 5 to 6 p.m. and the Community Tree Lighting Ceremony at 6. Join in singing Christmas carols, welcoming Santa and Mrs. Claus and a celebration of life and memories, sponsored by CHI St. Joseph’s Hospice. Once lit, the giant tree stands as a symbol of small town cheer and good will, lighting the way to a New Year. Kids are invited to visit with Mr. and Mrs. Claus that night until 8 at Bella Caffè.
Beginning Saturday, Nov. 26 and continuing through Dec. 17 children can visit Mr. and Mrs. Claus Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Bella Caffè and attend free children’s movie matinees at 1 p.m. at Park Theater.
It’s the season to visit whether it’s enjoying the outdoors, relaxing or joining in some local traditions. The Chamber website has all the information you need to put together a memorable stay or weekend visit. If you want help or have questions, call our friendly staff at 218-732-4111 to learn more.