Wander Minnesota: The Kickoff Of Festival Season
As we move toward the prime festival months of summer, spring ushers in many festivals, including lots of outdoor activities. As usual, don't forget to look through the myriad opportunities offered at the Minnesota Historical Society, which has plenty of its own events to offer.
Duluth
Duluth Homegrown Music Festival
Now through May 8
This is one serious music festival: More than 200 musical acts, all over the city. Surely there's something to satisfy every musical taste here.
St. Paul
Festival of Nations
May 5-8
Back for its 83rd year, the Festival of Nations celebrates the diversity in Minnesota's heritage with nearly 100 different ethnic groups providing music, dance, crafts and food. This year's theme is Folklore & Fairytales, which should have a wide range of exhibits.
Red Wing to Winona (and into Wisconsin)
100 Miles of Garage Sales
May 5-8
Bargain hunters and Antique Roadshow dreamers, take note — this annual event is a treasure-hunter's joy.
St. Paul
Cinco de Mayo
May 7
St. Paul's District del Sol has plenty to entertain you with a couple of days after the actual fifth of May. A fiesta parade, live music, jalapeno eating contest, kids' activities and plenty of fabulous, authentic Mexican food.
Lake Elmo
Shepherd's Harvest Sheep and Wool Festival
May 13-15
Sheep. Llamas. Angora bunnies. Woolen goodies, pre-made or ready to knit/crochet. Food, music, sheepherder dog demonstrations, knitting classes and plenty of food.
Detroit Lakes
Festival of Birds
May 19-22
Serious birders, take note — this festival offers the possibility of seeing any of more than 275 species of birds that live in the Detroit Lakes area. There will be guided tours, educational events and field trips.
Minneapolis
Art-a-Whirl
May 20-22
Prowl around northeast Minneapolis and explore its growing arts community in this varied collection of local and national artists' exhibitions.
Whalan
The Stand-Still Parade
May 21
Food, music, games, petting zoo, arts and crafts, lefse — and a parade that doesn't move.
What else is happening in our state? Be sure to check out the 10 p.m. Sunday night WCCO newscasts, where you can learn more in the weekly segment, Finding Minnesota.
