Category Archives: Events

Twin Cities Halloween Haunted House Guide 2014

Here’s our rundown of the premier Twin Cities haunted attractions: The Soap Factory Haunted Basement, Fright Farm, The Butcher Shop House of Gore and much, much more. Expect the unexpected. Keep watching, and find what terrors await you in the dark.. Boo!

So here are our top picks (alphabetical in order):

 

). Fright Farm Rochester Horror – 1195 West Circle Drive SW, Rochester, MN 55902

Overview: “Come visit Southern Minnesota's most horrifying haunted attraction located at the historical George Stopple farmstead at the History Center of Olmsted County. From the street you will already wish you didn't come. It is truly designed to frighten and amuse you. Guided tours will include a look at the original farm house, barn, smokehouse, and caves…”

Cost: $13 at the door

Dates: Oct 9, 10, 11, 16, 17, 18, 19, 24, 25, 26, 29, 30, 31 & Nov

Time: 7 p.m. – 11p.m.

 

). Haunting Experience On Highway 61, 10900 E. Point Douglas Rd., Cottage Grove, MN 55016

Overview: “The Haunting Experience on Highway 61 opens up for its 28th consecutive year. There’s a reason we’ve been around this long. People love coming to see what we are up to each year with our Haunted Hayride, Haunted House, and more. This Halloween season is one that you don’t want to miss with haunts such as The Manor House, Scummo’s 3D Nightmare, and The Hayride, if you dare.We also have a bit of a vermin problem on our property that you can help us get under control with the Big Zombie Hunter Paintball Adventure.”

Cost: $13- $38

Dates: Oct , , 10, 11, 15, 16, 17, 18, 24, 25, 30, 31 & Nov

Time: 7 p.m. – 11 p.m.

 

). Haunted Ship Zombie Outbreak – 350 Harbor Drive, Duluth, Minnesota

Overview: “Are you ready for a real scare? Each year, during October, the William A. Irvin transforms itself into a haunted ship. During the self-guided tour, your worst nightmares will come to life. You’ll see how the historic ore ship’s hauntings are not just a rumor. Mysterious sightings have been recorded through the decades. Walking through the dark, eerie hallways, you’ll get the feeling that you’re never alone, because you won’t be. In this ship, no place is safe. If you think you’re brave enough to visit the Haunted Ship, remember, only the tough ones make it through alive.” –VisitDuluth.com

Cost: $10

Dates: October , , 9. 10, 11, 16, 17, 18, 23, 24, 25, 29, 30, 31

Time: 6:30-10:00 p.m.

 

). Molitor’s Haunted Acres – 425 35th Street NE, Sauk Rapids, MN 56379

Review: “A perilous journey of your deepest fears through the Woods of Darkness, The Sewer, Mutant Mineshaft, The Trail of Blood, Quarry Asylum and The Funhouse Maze. On your treacherous quest, be mindful not to go mad and join the tortured souls who dwell here.”

Cost: $16-$18

Dates: Oct , 4, 10, 11, 15, 16, 17, 18, 23, 24, 25, 26, 30, 31

Time: 6:30 p.m. to 11 p.m.

 

5). Scream Town, 7410 Highway 212, Chaska, MN

Review: “Drove 2 hours to come to Screamtown last night…TOTALLY WORTH THE DRIVE!!!”
-Jeniffer Rothstein

Cost: $35 for regular ticket

When: Oct 3, 4, 10, 11, 16, 17, 18, 19, 24, 25, 26, 31 & Nov 1

Time: 6:30 p.m.- 11 p.m.

 

6). Soap Factory Haunted Basement – 514 Second Street SE, Minneapolis, MN 55414

Review: “This is not a Haunted House, boo-scary or hands in the bowl of grapes tricks, this is a sensory screw job that turns your mind around and lets you scare yourself. –Binary Blogger

Cost: $25; $27 Friday and Saturday

Dates: Wednesdays through Sundays, now through November 2

Time: 6- 11 p.m.

 

7). The Butcher Shop House of Gore – 1444 E. Reaney Ave., St. Paul, MN 55106.

Review: “HOUSE OF GORE is a full-size maze-style haunted house that was constructed in the way haunted houses used to be built… black lights, rats, skulls, cadavers, ghosts, strobe lights, fog machines, rubber masks, and gallons of shocking bloody gore!”

Cost: $5.

Dates: October 4-6, 11-13, 18-20, 25-31, November 1-2.

Time: 5 p.m. -11 p.m.

 

8). Trail of Terror, 3525 145th Street West, Shakopee, MN 55379

Review: “Come early and prepare your self for this scary haunted hayride (keep an eye out as things appear when you least expect it). Follow through a scary, unbelievable spooky maze and don’t be fooled by followers. The maze is the best part! This trail of terror was money worth spent and always be on the lookout, even when you approach your vehicle….I left spooked wanting more!” -Spookedme on Trip Advisor

Cost: Basic tickets $20

Dates: October 10, 11, 12, 17, 18, 19, 24, 25, 26, 31, November 1

Time: 7p.m. – 11p.m.

So there you have it- a rundown of the best haunted houses in and around the Twin Cities. So brave ones, step foot inside Minnesota’s scariest haunted houses- if you dare. The original article from Funtober can be found here.

6 Halloween Safety Tips for Pets

Break out your masks and monsters! Its Halloween, and time to be scared! While being afraid at Halloween is actually a lot of fun for humans, it can be an especially stressful for pets. Between the combination of strangers, costumes, and continual door bell ringing it is no wonder that this is a terrifying time for our furry friends. Read on for tips and tricks on how to avoid a real scare and keep your pet safe this Halloween.

 

1). No Human Treats for Pets

While candy and other chocolates can be a tasty treat for humans, these sweets can be extremely harmful for pets. Besides chocolate, watch out for gum and sugarless candy sweetened with xylitol which can be lethal for Fido. In the event that your pet does eat something dangerous, immediately call your vet or the Animal Poison Control Center (888-426-4435).

The next day, or after trick or treaters leave, be sure to check for stray wrappers or other bits of candy they may have dropped. You don’t want Rover to find these before you do.

Instead, why not spoil your dog and make these homemade peanut butter, bacon & pumpkin dog treats? They are super easy to make and we promise your dog will love you for it.

2). Keep an Eye out For Decorations

In a home with pets, it goes without saying that Jack-o’- lanterns lit with candles are a bad idea. Curious creatures can easily knock them over and cause a fire. Instead, opt for artificial or battery powered lights for your decorating needs.

Similarly, decorations are not chew toys. Prevent pets from chewing on cords by keeping cords off the floor and out of reach. If chewed, Fido could suffer from cuts, burns or life threatening shocks. Better yet, try to keep your decorations outside to prevent problems before they happen.

3). Be Careful with Costumes

According to the Humane Society of the United States, an estimated half of pet owners dress their pets in costumes for Halloween. Pumpkins and ladybugs are the perennial favorites.

While pet costumes may be hilarious, it is important to keep your pet’s best interest at heart. Do the right thing and double check that your pet can comfortably breath, walk, eat and go to the bathroom. In addition to what your pet is wearing, be aware of how long your pet is dressed up. Oftentimes, these costumes are made from irritating fabric that can become uncomfortable or tight over long periods of time.Not to mention, it is important to be wary of small parts can be torn off and gobbled up. Just the thought of Rover chewing off and ingesting part of his costume is downright terrifying.

 

4). Keep Pets indoors

Before nightfall, take your pets indoors. While pets are always safest indoors at night, this is especially true on Halloween in order to avoid pranksters who may want to harm pets.

5). Keep pet in secure place

Even the best behaved pets can become anxious or worked up during the Halloween commotion. Reduce stress for pets by putting them in a separate area with their favorite bed and toys well before trick or treaters arrive. This way they will have a safe haven where they can feel secure, comfortable, relaxed while being tucked away from any hazards.

Similarly, even if you are just having friends over for a Halloween party, keep your pets away from the festivities in their safe room. Even familiar people may become scary as masks and costumes change how people look and smell to a pet.

6) Make sure ID tags are on

Unfortunately, it is possible that your pet may accidentally run out the door or get lost amidst all the Halloween excitement. Should anything happen, you want to make sure Fluffy is safely returned to you. Pet owners, please double check that your furry friends are wearing their tags. Wouldn’t you rather be safe than sorry?

Lastly, while it may be the spookiest night of the year, remember to have fun! If you don’t have a timid dog or a scaredy cat get them involved too so all the family can participate and have a tail wagging good time. Happy “Howloween” from RNR Realty!

Oktoberfest! The Ultimate Fall Activity!

Beer lovers rejoice as 2014 marks the 181st year of Oktoberfest! This 16 day festival is the world’s largest fair and attracts over 6 million people from around the world. The locals call it “Wies’n” or the nickname for Theresienwiese, the fairgrounds where the festival is held. While this festival has been taking place annually since 1810, here at RNR we began to wonder…why is Oktoberfest celebrated in September?

History

Believe it or not, Oktoberfest isn’t completely misnamed because the original Oktoberfest was actually held in October (Oct. 12, 1810, to be exact). In 1810 the residents of Munich were invited to celebrate the marriage of Bavarian Crown Prince Ludwig—the future King Ludwig I—and Princess Therese of Sachsen-Hildburghausen. It featured a parade, dancing, horse races and of course lots of beer drinking. Needless to say, it was such a good time that the tradition stuck, and as time passed the length of the festival increased from one day to two weeks. Additionally, a decision was made to celebrate the festival earlier in order to avoid a snowy Oktoberfest. Thus, morphing it into the festival we know today.

The Modern Festival

While many may forget or not even know about the origin of Oktoberfest, today it is all about the beer and the food. This year, the festival kicks off on September 20th when the Mayor of Munich taps the first keg. After that, a steady stream of beer keeps flowing as nearly 7 million liters of beer are served- which is almost enough to fill three Olympic sized swimming pools! Yet steins usually run around 9-10 euros apiece, so drinking is not cheap. However, at the festival not any run of the mill brew can be served. The beer must meet Oktoberfest criteria (i.e. it must be brewed within the Munich city limits, have a minimum of 6%alcohol by volume and be fermented for a minimum of 30 days). Paulaner, Spaten, Hacker-Pschorr, Augustiner, Hofbräu and Löwenbräu are among the approved breweries that visitors can expect on site.

In addition to enjoying liters of golden lager, visitors can also enjoy traditional German fare such as Würstl (sausages) Brezen (pretzel) and Knödel (potato or bread dumplings). But wait! There is more to this festival than brats and brews! For example, the Riflemen’s parade features horses, cows, goats as well as people dressed in traditional Bavarian costumes is a highlight of the event. Plus there are concerts, dancing, games and a host of other family friendly activities.

Luckily for those of us who can’t make it to Munich to celebrate, smaller Oktoberfests happen all around the world. And don’t worry, if you are of German heritage or not, its okay to let loose. If you are looking for more fun, try this quiz on 15 Things You Didn’t Know About Oktoberfest.  In the meantime, Prost! or for you non-German speakers “Bottoms up!”

Antiques, Junk and Gems and Oh My!

This weekend (September 25th-27th) marks Shakopee’s Canterbury Park 9th annual Junk Bonanza! Self-proclaimed as “the best junk round up in the nation,” this one of a kind flea market style experience attracts more than 1,000 people annually. Featuring hundreds of vendors selling vintage items, antiques, unique oddities and artisan-repurposed pieces, we dare you to walk away empty handed. Thirsty shoppers can even satiate their thirst with Canterbury Park’s famous Bloody Mary as they stroll around the grounds.

In addition to vendors, a variety of other activities will be taking place throughout the festival. Stop by and learn the latest in specialty finishes and other decorative paint techniques with a hands on session by Annie Sloan Unfolded. Or come listen to the appraiser Tim Luke from the TV show “Cash in the Attic” as he discusses the hottest flea market trends and the future of collectibles. Additionally, Friday or “Lucky Friday” will have hourly give aways throughout the day. Participants can register to win $25 gift certificates which can be spent at vendors there. Free money?! Yes please! Lastly, while these sessions are free space is limited. Be sure to pick up your ticket the day of the session.

Interested in Tickets? Visitors can opt to buy early bird tickets for entrance at 8 a.m. on Thursday, September 25th and get a two hour head start on the rest of the crowd plus free admission on Friday and Saturday. Likewise, you can always buy a day pass for $9 and get general admission for either Friday or Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Finally, maybe the piles of junk will get your creative gears turning and will inspire your next DIY or upcycled home decor project. If you are looking for ideas, be sure to check out our Pinterest board which is loaded with suggestions. On it we have tips, tricks, and step-by-step directions for making over and continuing the use of your old furniture and decor. In short, it is jammed pack with inspiration for your next creative venture and may help guide you on your shopping experience.

So whether you are searching for antiques, junk or gems you will be sure to find it all at Junk Bonanza. Because here, one man’s trash really is another man’s treasure. So let the bonanza begin!

 

 

 

 

9 Ways to Take in the Last Bit of Summer

Sigh. So its Labor Day and you may be asking yourself where has the summer gone? Rather than mourn the loss of sunny days out on the lake and ice cold drinks on rooftop bars, why not enjoy the times we have had.

Below are 9 ways for you to enjoys yourself this Labor Day and take in the last bit of summer. Find the full article here.

1). Head out to the Farmers Market and grab fresh produce (specifically tomatoes) while you can. Try making this awesome salsa recipe that will knock your socks off.

2). Eat watermelon. And lots of it. Bonus points if you have a seed spitting competition with your friends.

3). Get outside and garden. Yes summer may be winding down, but your plants still need a little TLC. While you are at it,  check out our earlier post on landscaping tips for homeowners.

4). Go for a long run or walk around the lake and feel the breeze in your hair.

5). Grill out with your family and friends and use this awesome BBQ sauce recipe from Down Home With the Neely’s.

6). Enjoy a frozen treat. Yes you can enjoy them all year round, but when the temps are high a frozen treat tastes oh so much better. If you are stuck on where to go, check out our earlier blog on the Best Ice Cream in the Twin Cities.

7). Stargazing and try to point out constellations. But if the only one you know is the Big Dipper, download this handy app to help you out.

8) Have a campfire and make s’mores. If you want your campfire to get crazy check out 39 Life Changing Ways to Make S’mores Better.

9) Take advantage of the weather and participate in watersports. Whether it be tubing, swimming, waterskiing or paddle boarding- go do it!

Hot Labor Day Travel Destinations 2014

Wanting to get out of dodge for the holiday weekend but unsure where to go? Consider choosing from Travelocity’s list of the top ten destinations for Labor Day Weekend 2014. (Find the original list here.) Additionally, RNR has mapped out where to stay, what to eat, what to see and how to celebrate so you can enjoy a little more RNR this holiday weekend.

1). New York City

Where to Stay: See how the other half lives and spend a night at The Peninsula New York, one of the city’s finest luxury hotels.

What to See: At the American Museum of Natural History you are sure to be amazed by the 94 feet long and 21,000 pound fiberglass whale suspended from the ceiling along with the other 32 million other specimens.

What to Eat: Get a slice of New York style pizza at Lombardi’s Pizzeria, from America’s first pizzeria.

Celebrate: Learn about West Indian culture, arts, history and traditions at the Labor Day Carnival Parade. Also known as the Brooklyn West Indian Carnival, it attracts a staggering one to three million participants attend each year.

2). Seattle

Where to Stay: The view from The Edgewater Hotel Seattle is worth the price alone. Located in the heart of downtown Seattle, it overlooks the Elliott Bay and simultaneously provides a picturesque view of the Olympic Mountains.

What to See: Taste the best of the northwest at Pike Place Market. As one of the oldest continuously operated farmers market’s in the US, it offers a variety of shops, cooking classes and opportunities to wander.

What to Eat: Ivar’s Fish and Chips, the go to place for seafood in Seattle for over 75 years.

Celebrate: Feeling artsy? Check out Bumbershoot, the nation’s largest art and music festival. Headliners include Foster the People, J. Cole and Foster the People.

3). Los Angeles

Where to Stay: The newly renovated Four Seasons Los Angeles at Beverly Hills is sure to provide the ultimate luxury experience. As one guest put it, “Amazing Stay! Luxury service at its finest…This is hotel is for guest who want nothing less than the absolute BEST!”.  

What to See: Disney Land, simply because it is “The happiest place on earth”.

What to Eat: Wolfgang Puck’s restaurant Spago. As Angeleno Magazine put it, “Wolfgang Puck’s Flagship Restaurant Rises to the Top– Again”.

Celebrate: Anyone fans of the Minnesota State Fair are sure to love the LA County Fair. the largest county fair in the country.

4). San Francisco

Where to Stay: Brave souls may want to spend the night at the Queen Anne Hotel nestled in historic Nob Hill. While this Victorian building has its charm, many have reported hauntings from the resident ghost Miss Mary Lake.

What to See: Golden Gate Bridge and its orange towers has become an iconic symbol of San Francisco.  Whether you hike, walk, bike or just take it all in, this bridge is a must see on anyones visit to the Bay Area.

What to Eat: Don’t miss out on Boudin Bakery where their world famous sourdough bread is baked fresh daily.

Celebrate: Come celebrate the last blast of summer at the Millbrae Art & Wine Festival. With over 200 artists, 20 food vendors, live entertainment, a fun-filled children’s area and beverage stands this festival offers something for everyone. 

5). Denver

Where to Stay: The Renaissance Denver Downtown City Center Hotel is unique in that it provides guests a modern experience in one of Colorado’s most historic buildings. Refurbished in the old Colorado National Bank, you will find historical elements such as a breathtaking, three story white marble atrium juxtaposed with the comforts and accommodations of a modern hotel. Even if you can’t spend the night here, a walk through the lobby is worth it. 

What to See: Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater. The park itself provides a diverse selection of entertainment including “Yoga on the Rocks” and trails for hiking and biking. Additionally, if you are interested in checking out a concert at this venue, Atmosphere, Joe Bonamessa and One Republic will be playing this weekend.

What to Eat: The Delectable Egg had been recognized as one of Denver’s top breakfast and lunch establishments since 1982. More importantly, it is home of the Denver Omelette and all its diced ham, onion, bell pepper, and melty American cheese goodness. 

Celebrate: Head downtown to Denver’s Civic Park Center for the annual Taste of Colorado festival. Started in 1983, this four-day free admission, food, music, and entertainment festival guarantees a good time will be had by all. 

6). Chicago

Where to Stay: Dubbed the“Chicago hotel the world knows best”, The Palmer House Hilton is a legendary Art Deco style hotel that is sure to get your Gatsby gears turning.

What to See: Cruise down the river as you learn about the  city’s vibrant history and architecture on a Chicago Architecture Foundation’s River Cruise. Trust us, this truly is an enjoyable way to take in Chicago and it’s beautiful buildings.

What to Eat: Chomp on a Chicago Style hot dog from Gene and Jude’s. (And don’t even think about asking for ketchup- you just will make a fool of yourself).

Celebrate: Enjoy the spectacular fireworks at Navy Pier on Lake Michigan. As an added bonus, the display is even synchronized to music!

7). Washington D.C.

Where to Stay: The Jefferson Hotel Washington D.C. is luxurious as it is welcoming. Visitors will be enthralled by its old world feeling, beautiful period decor and exquisite customer service at this top rated boutique hotel.

What to See: The White House, because a trip to our nation’s capitol simply would be incomplete without a visiting this historical gem.

What to Eat: A signature burger from Bullfeathers on Capitol Hill. Specifically, we recommend the “Big Stick”. Imagine this: melted swiss, pastrami, thousand island dressing, bacon, coleslaw stacked on a burger served on toasted ciabatta bread with sweet potato fries. Yep. We are drooling too. 

Celebrate: Listen to free Labor Day concert on the US Capitol performed by the National Symphony Orchestra.

8). South Florida (Miami)

Where to Stay: Affordable yet luxurious, Hotel Victor South Beach  is located in South Beach’s trendy Art Deco District. Here, you will be able to walk among the largest collection of Art Deco buildings in the world while taking in the lively surroundings. 

What to See: Things are sure to sizzle at Miami Beach, the notorious playground for the world’s rich and the famous.

What to Eat: If you are seeking upscale Cuban food, look no further than De Rodriguez Cuba on Ocean. Try the brightly flavored ceviches or the smoked marlin tacos to experience Latin fusion at its finest.

Celebrate: Those who are 21+ can celebrate All White Yacht Party. This event on a multi million dollar luxury yacht features four levels of fun and a VIP section.

9). Boston

Where to Stay: The boutique Nine Zero Hotel has won numerous awards such as “Best Hotel in Boston” and “Top Pet Friendly Hotel”. With unparalleled service and your stay is sure to be memorable.

What to See: History buffs will be enthralled with Boston’s Freedom Trails. This 2.5 mile long brick path is jammed packed with 16 historical sites, reminding viewers of bygone times.

What to Eat: Holy cannoli! The cannoli’s from Mike’s Pastry are huge, tasty and worth every penny. Go get some!

Celebrate: On Saturday, August 30th the fireworks display at the Boston Harbor kicks off the celebration of the Boston Arts festival taking place along the waterfront.

10). Las Vegas

Where to Stay: The Bellagio is a world class luxury hotel based off of Lake Como in Italy. Needless to say, it is most famous for its eight acre lake situated between their building and the Strip. In the center of the lake lies the Fountains of Bellagio, dubbed the “Dancing Fountains” that are synchronized to lights and music providing by passers with the only free show in Vegas.

What to See: “O” by Cirque du Soleil, a fantastic circus, dance performance is sure to WOW anyone. As Melbourn’s Sun Herald reported “… a magical blend of visuals and jaw dropping skills… Awesome does not begin to describe it.”

Herald Sun, Melbourne

What to Eat: With over 300 selection from around the world, even the pickiest eaters will be accommodated by the Carnival World Buffet at the Rio Las Vegas. While the variety may seem overwhelming, the stations are separated by cuisine, making it easy to navigate. But don’t pile our plate too high because you MUST leave room for dessert! With over 70 varieties of homemade sweet treats and nine gelato flavors, a satisfied sweet tooth and food coma is inevitable. 

Celebrate: In Vegas, the party never stops.  Simply walk out your door and you will be sure to find where the party is at.

There you have it readers- The hottest Labor Day Vacation destinations for 2014. Better book your tickets now s a sure way to end your summer with a blast!

Unique Eats at the Minnesota State Fair

Find the original article here: 8 wacky foods you can eat at the Minnesota State Fair – Travel – TODAY.com.

It’s finally here! Every Minnesotan’s favorite summer activity – aka the Minnesota State Fair – is beginning this week and it lasts all the way through Labor Day. This year, along with some majorly cool concerts and classic carnival rides, there is some CUH-RAZY cuisine that all fairgoers (veterans and newcomers alike) must try. Does chocolate dessert salami sound a little out of your comfort zone? Not to worry. For you less gutsy gastronomes, there are novel dishes that are guaranteed to please, including a bacon-wrapped turkey leg and beer gelato. Now that we know we’ve got your mouth watering, finish reading about more of the fair’s new fare here.

Once you’ve wiped the drool off your keyboard (it’s okay, we understand), let us know: what new dishes are you looking forward to trying at the State Fair this year? What are your favorite standbys? Give us “the dish” in the comments!

50 Places in Minnesota to Celebrate 4th of July, 2014

Fireworks @ Taste of Minnesota, Saint Paul
“Photo Credit: “Fireworks @ Taste of Minnesota, Saint Paul” © 2007 by Tony Webster (CC BY 2.0)

Can you believe America is turning 238 years old in 2014? We’d swear she doesn’t look a day over 237. Well, anyway, as the good old US of A gets ready to celebrate Independence Day once again, you’re probably preparing your picnic baskets and poppers for the holiday. Minnesota is bursting with events over the next couple of days, and if you have yet to make 4th of July plans, look no further than at the information below. First, find your nearest city in the table (scroll past the map) and click on an event name to see the parades, concerts, festivals and dazzling fireworks displays happening in that area. Then, click on the corresponding event name in the map for specific location details.

Near the Twin Cities

#

Event

Location
1 Red, White & Boom Minneapolis
2 4th of July Celebration Powderhorn Park
3 Freedom Days Apple Valley
4 Blaine Festival & Fireworks Extravaganza Blaine
5 Summer Fete Bloomington
6 4th of July Celebration Chanhassen
7 July 4th Funfest Eagan
8 4th of July Hometown Celebration Eden Prairie
9 Independence Day Parade & Fireworks Edina
10 4th of July Celebration Excelsior-Lake Minnetonka
11 Independence Day Celebration Fort Snelling
12 Pan-O-Prog Lakeville
13 4th of July Richfield
14 July 4th Fireworks Celebration St. Louis Park
15 Manitou Days White Bear Lake

Greater Minnesota

16 Delano 4th of July Celebration Delano
17 Fireworks on Garrison Bay Garrison
18 4th of July Fireworks Sleepy Eye
19 4th of July Celebration Albert Lea
20 67th Annual 4th of July Fireworks St. Cloud
21 Detroit Lakes Fireworks Display Detroit Lakes
22 4th of July Celebration Elysian
23 MSUM 4th of July Celebration Moorhead
24 4th of July Celebration Keewatin
25 4th of July Celebration Erhard
26 Hometown 4th of July Park Rapids
27 4th of July Fireworks Over Lake Waconia Lake Waconia
28 4th of July Celebration Hill City
29 Stars and Stripes Day Fourth of July Celebration Pequot Lakes
30 Old-fashioned Fourth of July Worthington
31 4th of July Parade Grand Marais
32 Lakefest 4th of July Festival Waseca
33 4th of July Celebration Moose Lake
34 Fourth Fest 2014 Duluth
35 Fourth of July Celebration Eveleth
36 Crosslake Celebrates America – 44th Annual Fireworks Crosslake
37 4th of July American Celebration Brainerd
38 Spectacular Fireworks Fairmont
39 Harmony’s 4th of July Celebration Harmony
40 Fourth of July Celebration Stillwater
41 Old-fashioned 4th of July Celebration St. Peter
42 4th of July Veterans’ Celebration Cloquet
43 Old-fashioned 4th of July Celebration Baudette
44 4th of July Fireworks on Pokegama Lake Grand Rapids
45 4th of July Celebration Biwabik
46 Patriotic 4th of July Celebration New Ulm
47 4th of July Parade & Fireworks Crane Lake
48 4th of July Parade Afton
49 Annandale 4th of July Annandale
50 Walker 4th of July Walker

 
 
 

Plan on attending any of these celebrations? Did we miss the event happening near you? Let us know in the comments!

Father’s Day Gift Ideas

For the full original post, go to: Father’s Day gift ideas from The Home Depot.

Remember the good ol' days when you didn't have to worry about buying your father presents. Yeah, well, those days are long gone.

Remember the good ol’ days when you didn’t have to worry about buying presents for your father? Yeah, well, those days are long gone.

The days of giving your dad novelty neckties and boring – and by “boring” we mean precious, of course – handmade ceramic coffee mugs are over. If you really want to show pops how much you’ve matured over the years, then you’ll have to step up your gifting game. Luckily, The Home Depot put together this list of Father’s Day presents that are sure to please your old man, whether he’s an outdoorsman, a techie (trust us, some tech-savvy dads do exist!), or a grill master (or at least thinks he is). He won’t even have to pretend to like whatever you get him! Not that we’re suggesting that’s what he’s done in the past…

View Home Depot’s full list here, and then let us know what you’re getting your dad for his special day! Or if you are a proud papa, tell us in the comments what you’re hoping to receive from your kids this year. Happy Father’s Day!

125 Fun Things to Do in Minnesota this June

Festival, State Fair, Large Crowd

Festivals, concerts, and fairs – oh my! From ArtSoup to the Zumbrota Covered Bridge Music & Arts Festival, there’s an event for everyone happening this month. Offering tons of food, music, and good old-fashioned fun, here are some of June’s must-do events in Minnesota (and one in Wisconsin that’s definitely worth the trip).

The events are listed in chronological order. Click the links for more info.

5/30 – 6/7 Lake Fest Forest Lake
5/31 – 6/7 Hawley Rodeo Fest Hawley
5/31 – 6/7 I Love Burnsville Week Burnsville
6/1 Grand Old Day 2014 St. Paul
6/5 – 6/8 Tower Days Spring Lake Park
6/6 – 6/8 Bullhead Days Waterville
6/6 – 6/8 Cyrus Days Cyrus
6/6 Dairy Day Celebration Hutchinson
6/6 – 6/8 Edina Art Fair Edina
6/6 – 6/8 Father Hennepin Festival Champlin
6/6 – 6/7 Nisswa-Stamman Scandinavian Folk Festival Nisswa
6/6 – 6/8 Pine Island Cheese Festival Pine Island
6/6 – 6/20 Spring Art Expo Cook
6/6 Twin Cities Electric Run St. Paul
6/7 – 6/8 Annual Fountain Trail Days Fountain
6/7 Art in the Hollow Swede Hollow Park, St. Paul
6/7 St. Paul Summer Beerfest St. Paul
6/7 Explore your Parks Day Lake Elmo
6/7 Frazee Crazy Daze Frazee
6/7 Greyfest 2014 Shoreview
6/7 – 6/8 June Bloom Wine Event Great River Road
6/7 OtterJam 2014 Ottertail
6/7 Rhubarb Festival Lanesboro
6/7 St. Anthony Park Arts Festival St. Paul
6/8 – 6/15 Buffalo Days Buffalo
6/8 Lyn Lake Street Festival Minneapolis
6/9 – 6/15 Hutchinson Jaycee Water Carnival Hutchinson
6/10 – 6/15 2014 Wizard of Oz Festival Grand Rapids
6/11 – 6/15 Albertville Friendly City Days Albertville
6/11 Friends of Ramsey Park Jamboree Redwood Falls
6/11 – 6/14 Kick’n Up Kountry Music Festival Karlstad
6/11 – 6/16 Steamboat Days Winona Winona
6/12 – 8/3 2014 Minnesota Biennial St. Paul
6/12 – 6/15 50th Annual Tater Daze Brooklyn Park
6/12 – 6/15 Barnum Spring Fever Days Barnum
6/12 – 6/15 Mapleton Town & Country Days Mapleton
6/12 – 6/15 Parktacular Celebration St. Louis Park
6/13 – 6/15 Cuyuna Lakes Mountain Bike Festival Crosby
6/13 – 6/18 Foley Fun Days Foley
6/13 – 6/15 Gammel Dag Fest Peterson
6/13 – 6/14 Interlaken Heritage Days Fairmont
6/13 – 6/14 Lake Crystal Duck Days Celebration Lake Crystal
6/13 – 6/15 Onamia Days Onamia
6/13 – 6/14 Fergus Falls Summer Fest Fergus Falls
6/13 – 6/14 Wannigan Days Taylor Falls
6/13 – 6/14 Winstock Festival Winsted
6/14 3rd Annual Northeast Ride Northeast Minneapolis
6/14 – 6/15 Art on the Lake Excelsior
6/14 Bigfork Wilderness Days Bigfork
6/14 Finnish-American Summer Festival Embarrass
6/14 Japanese Garden Festival Bloomington
6/14 Juneteenth Minneapolis
6/14 Midsommar Celebration Minneapolis
6/14 National Get Outdoors Day Multiple locations
6/14 Northern Spark Minneapolis
6/14 – 6/22 Perham Turtle Fest Perham
6/14 – 6/15 Solstice Outdoor Music Festival Mankato
6/14 – 6/15 Stone Arch Bridge Festival Minneapolis
6/14 Twin Cities World Refugee Day St. Paul
6/15 Chocolate, Shakespeare, & Champagne Winona
6/15 Falls Festival on Foot Little Falls
6/15 Lanesboro Art in the Park Lanesboro
6/17 – 6/21 Farmington Dew Days Farmington
6/17 Fourth Summer Food Fest Blaine
6/17 – 6/22 Willmar Fest Willmar
6/18 – 6/19 Faribault Heritage Celebration Faribault
6/18 – 6/22 Rockin’ Rogers Days Rogers
6/19 – 6/22 Cottage Grove Strawberry Fest Cottage Grove
6/19 – 6/22 Dan Patch Days Savage
6/19 – 6/22 Howard Lake Good Neighbor Days Howard Lake
6/19 – 6/22 Hennepin County Fair Corcoran
6/19 – 6/21 June Jubilee Family Fun Day Wadena
6/19 – 7/4 Manitou Days White Bear Lake
6/19 – 6/22 Zumbrota Covered Bridge Music & Arts Festival Zumbrota
6/20 – 6/22 150th Sesquicentennial Celebration of Redwood Falls Redwood Falls
6/20 – 6/22 Prairie Fest Long Prairie
6/20 Redwood Falls Community Parade Redwood Falls
6/20 – 6/29 Rochesterfest Rochester
6/20 – 6/21 Roseau Scandinavian Festival Roseau
6/20 – 6/22 Sherburn Holiday Festival Sherburn
6/21 3rd Annual Summer Party in New Ulm New Ulm
6/21 50th & Bryant Street Fest Minneapolis
6/21 – 6/22 Afton Strawberry Fest Afton
6/21 Freedom Days of Becker Becker
6/21 – 6/22 GermanFest St. Paul
6/21 – 6/22 Rock the Garden Minneapolis
6/21 Solstice Music and Arts Fair Clearwater
6/21 Walk Around the World International Festival Rochester
6/23 – 6/28 Plein Air Art and Music Festival Red Wing
6/25 – 6/29 58th Annual Columbia Heights Jamboree Columbia Heights
6/25 – 6/28 Norman County Fair Ada
6/25 – 6/29 Summerfest Milwaukee, WI
6/26 – 6/29 Cass County Fair Pine River
6/26 Walker Crazy Days Walker
6/26 – 6/29 Dawson Riverfest Dawson
6/26 – 6/28 Earle Brown Days Brooklyn Center
6/26 – 6/29 Fridley ’49er Days Festival Fridley
6/26 – 6/28 Jazz Festival St. Paul
6/26 – 6/29 Riverside Days Springfield
6/26 – 6/30 Rosefest Roseville
6/26 – 6/28 Watertower Festival Pipestone
6/27 – 6/29 Blaine Festival Blaine
6/27 – 6/29 Browerville Heritage Days Browerville
6/27 – 6/28 Ethnic Dance Theatre: 40th Anniversary Minneapolis
6/27 – 6/29 Kaposia Days St. Paul
6/27 – 6/29 Meadowfest 2014 Grand Meadow
6/27 – 6/28 Melrose Riverfest Melrose
6/27 – 6/28 Midwest Viking Festival and Scandinavian Hjemkomst Festival Moorhead
6/27 – 6/29 Pine River Summerfest Pine River
6/27 – 6/29 Red Lake County Fair Oklee
6/27 Special Olympics Minnesota Summer Games 5k Oak Park Heights
6/28 ArtSoup in Elk River Elk River
6/28 Burwell Art Fair Minnetonka
6/28 Burwell House Festival Minnetonka
6/28 – 6/29 Eagan Art Festival Eagan
6/28 – 7/4 Freedom Days in Apple Valley Apple Valley
6/28 – 6/30 Paul Bunyan Days Akeley
6/28 Pet-A-Palooza St. Paul
6/28 St. Boni Spass-Tagen Fun Days St. Bonifacius
6/28 – 6/29 Twin Cities Pride Festival Loring Park, Minneapolis
6/28 – 6/29 Wayzata Art Experience Wayzata
6/29 MN Food Truck Fair Uptown Minneapolis
6/29 Svenskarnas Dag Minnehaha Park
6/29 Vikingland Band Festival Alexandria
6/30 – 7/6 Military Family Week at the Minnesota Zoo Apple Valley