Picture entered in a 2016 contest by Janet K Snetsinger Nepsund
Fall weather has proven to be atypical – snow on golden leaves still clinging to aspen and birches – rain and more rain.
While some days earned complaints, the moisture means even small ponds attract ducks, geese and swans still gathering to head south. We look forward to the upcoming holidays with gratitude for the gift of water.
It is our tradition to celebrate four major holidays: the Firearms Deer Hunting Opener, Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s. You’re invited to share all of them with us.
Hunters are occupied with siting in their rifles, airing their blaze orange gear and checking the weather forecast. Nowadays, many women hunt, too, but traditional “hunting widows” begin shopping for home and the holidays.
The tradition continues with the Headwaters Animal Shelter hosting a Holiday Bazaar Friday and Saturday, Nov. 2 and 3, a Ladies Shopping Day Saturday, Nov. 3 at Blueberry Pines and the Winter Wonderland Snowflakes & Candy Canes Arts and Crafts Show Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 10 and 11 at Century School.
The Park Rapids Community Band will bring in the spirit of the season at a winter concert at 3 p.m. Nov. 18 at the Area High School Auditorium. The Park Rapids Classic Chorale will add to the joy of music with performances at 7:30 p.m. Friday, November 30 and 3 p.m. Sunday, December 2 at St. Johns Lutheran Church.
On Thanksgiving Day, burn off those calories before the feast at the 4th Annual Turkey Trot 5K/Fun Run and Walk sponsored by Heartland Homes. The walk/run starts at 9 a.m. with registration beforehand in the lobby of Essentia Health/CHI St. Joseph’s Health.
Toast marshmallows at the Tree Lighting.
The tree lighting on Main Street the Friday after Thanksgiving offers a greeting card moment to share with friends and family. Festivities begin with a Yuletide Sampler at participating Downtown stores from 5 to 6 p.m., a Live Nativity and the Heartland Lakes Community Tree Lighting Ceremony. Join in singing Christmas carols, roasting marshmallows over fire pits, welcoming Santa and Mrs. Claus and a celebration of life and memories. The ceremony starts at 6 p.m. 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 at Bella Caffè.
Beginning Saturday, Nov. 24 and continuing through Dec. 23 children can visit the Clauses 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.
Park Rapids merchants welcome early shoppers to savor the hometown-style atmosphere where personal service, free gift wrapping and friendly faces will help you fill your Christmas wish lists. Remember to take part in Small Business Saturday, Nov. 24.
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 800-247-0054 to learn more. – LuAnn Hurd-Lof
More November Events: