By Mary Gramer, Social Media Marketing Intern

Have you ever wanted to sail in a dragon boat race or attend an international tug-of-war contest? Did you know you could do just that right here in Minnesota? We’re not kidding! Read on to learn more about six unique events coming up this summer in Minnesota.

1. Pipestone Historic Downtown Guided Ghost Walk

Founded in 1880, Pipestone is a small town in southwest Minnesota that is home to around 4,000 people. On Saturday nights, you can go on a 1.5 hr guided tour of the town, beginning at the Pipestone County Museum. This tour is not only a mobile history lesson, it is also a showcase of the town’s paranormal activity. Individuals can expect to encounter a ghost or two along the way, especially upon entering Pipestone’s historic hotel.

When: Every Saturday night at 8pm between Memorial Day and Labor Day

Cost: $7

To make a weekend of it, check out http://www.pipestoneminnesota.com for more information about town events!

 

2. Urban Assault Ride

Biking, obstacles, beer, contests, racing… WHAT MORE COULD YOU WANT? Urban Assault Ride is a bike race that takes place all over the country. This summer, Minnesotans can participate in July at the Minneapolis race. The distance of the race is around 20 miles, and typically takes a team around 2 hours to complete. The obstacles include, but are not limited to, bike jousting, slip n slides, puzzles, paint ball, and many more!

When: July 12 at 9am

Cost: $50-$65 per person

For more information, or to sign up, go to http://urbanassaultride.com/city/minneapolis/

 

3. 23rd Great American Think-Off

Do you enjoy controversy? Then perhaps this event would suit you. The Great American Think-Off is an annual debate where four finalists are selected each year to debate a specific question or topic. This year’s question to be debated is “Does technology free us or trap us?” You can attend the debate at James Mann Center for the Performing Arts in New York Mills, MN.

When: Saturday June 13 at 7pm

Cost: $12 in advanced, $15 at the door

To learn more about this cranial tradition, head to www.think-off.org

 

4. Dragon Festival on Lake Phalen

The Dragon Festival at Lake Phalen Park is a festival full of wonderful smells, sounds, and sights. With dances and foods from all over Asia, this is a phenomenal cultural experience for people of all ages. Additionally, both days of the festival include dragon boat races. The sport of dragon boat originated in China, and includes long boats, sculpted and painted like dragons, racing to the finish line. This is an exceptional family activity – come hungry!

When: July 11&12, 10am-5pm

Cost: No entrance fee, bring cash for food, and some activities
If you would like more details, go to dragonfestival.org

 

5. Community Collaboration Hot Metal Pour

Do you know how metal sculptures are created? Check out this event in Fraconia Sculpture Park in Shafer, MN where artists from around the world demonstrate the process. Watch, and participate with, artists working with liquid metal at 2700 degrees F. The park will also feature live music and guided tours.

When: August 1, 10am-8pm

Cost: Free

For more information, check out http://www.franconia.org/communitypour.html

6. International Tug-Of-War: USA vs Canada

Who knew that there was such thing as professional tug-of-war matches? An annual friendly ‘war’ has been declared between USA and Canada, and is to be settled by a game of tug-of-war. The match takes place on the border of Minnesota and Canada in International Falls. The winner stays dry (by not being pulled into the river) and also gets a trophy and bragging rights.

When: July 2

Cost: Free

If you want to attend or learn more, go to http://www.uniquelyminnesota.com/features/international-tug-of-war-international-falls-mn.htm

Had you heard of any of these events before? Know of any other unique events coming up in Minnesota? Make sure to share your thoughts in the comments!

Each photo shared under the this license.