Winter is knocking on our door
After a storm ended a spectacular fall leaf show and a late heavy frost killed off the last blooming flowers, the stage is set for snow. It hasn’t arrived yet, but ice is beginning to form around the edges of ponds and lakes and winter is knocking at our door.
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 for Nov. 9. 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. 1 and 2 a Vendor & Craft Show Saturday, Nov. 9 at Century School and a Hunting Opener Vendor & Craft Show Saturday, Nov. 9 at Armory Square.
The 50-member Park Rapids Area Community Band (PRACB) will present “American Sketches” for the fall concert at 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 17 at the Area High School auditorium.
On Thanksgiving Day, burn off those calories before the feast at the 5th 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.
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, sponsored by CHI St. Joseph’s Hospice. 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. 30 and continuing through Dec. 21 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. Show your love for local, independent businesses on Small Business Saturday, Nov. 30.
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