Experience 2024

SOUTHEAST MINNESOTA 2023-2024

VISITOR & COMMUNITY GUIDE

We are proud to bring you the 2024-2025 Experience SE Minnesota Guide. This guide provides information about upcoming events in Austin & the surrounding areas. Visitors as well as local residents can use this as a reference to keep up with community events. This publication is produced and published by the Mower County Shopper and supported by the businesses featured inside. We all strive to keep our economy strong. Support your local merchants and take advantage of what your community has to offer. Locally owned and operated businesses contribute substantially to our economy. Dollars spent locally stay in the community longer and therefore create greater local wealth. Shop local, it just makes cents.

New Resident

LICENSE & REGISTRATION

Driver License (507) 434-2675

WATER

Austin Utilities (507) 433-8886

ELECTRIC

Austin Utilities (507) 433-8886

NATURAL GAS

Austin Utilities (507) 433-8886

TELEPHONE

Jaguar Communication (800) 250-1517

Charter Communications (877) 728-3126

Centurylink (800) 244-1111

MEDICAL CENTER

Mayo Clinic Health System (507) 433-7351

CABLE TV

Charter Communications (877) 728-3126

POLICE DEPARTMENT

Police (507) 437-9400

FIRE DEPARTMENT Fire (507) 433-3405

Vehicle Registration (507) 433-8744

ORGANIZATIONS

Salvation Army (507) 437-4566

United Way (507) 437-2313

American Red Cross (507) 437-4589

ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT

The Austin Area Commission for the Arts

Paramount Theatre 434-0934

CHANGE OF ADDRESS

U.S. Postal Service 507-434-4748

TRASH PICKUP

Waste

Management (800) 222-6214

Kruckeberg Services

507-216-8080

Thompson Sanitation (507) 256-4370

EMPLOYMENT

Workforce Center (800) 734-6421

INTERNET SERVICE PROVIDERS

Jaguar Communication (800) 250-1517

Charter Communications (877) 728-3126

Centurylink (800) 244-1111

MetroNet 507-355-1000

RECYCLING

Mower County Recycling Center (507) 437-9551

ELECTED CITY OFFICIALS

City Council (507) 437-9940

COUNTY GOVERNMENT

Mower County (507) 437-9494

HOUSING & REDEVELOPMENT

Austin HRA (507) 433-1866

EDUCATION

Austin Public Schools (507) 433-0966

Riverland Community College (800) 247-5039

Pacelli Catholic Schools (507) 437-3278

WELCOME CENTER

Welcome Center (507) 434-2863

DOG & CAT LICENSES

City of Austin (507) 437-9940

SENIOR SERVICES

Mower County

Senior Center (507) 433-3120

PUBLIC LIBRARY

Austin Public Library (507) 433-2391

Car Care

Calendar of Events

Every Monday Austing Rotary Meeting at the Hormel Historic Home from 12:00pm-1:00pm

www.facebook.com

AustinMNrotaryclub

Every Wednesday Open Studio at the Austin ArtWorks Center from 40:00am-12:00pm www.austinareaarts.org

Every Wednesday Story

Time at the Austin Public Library from 10:00am-10:30am

www.aplmn.org

Every Wednesday Wake up and Wiggle at the Austin Public Library from 10:30am-11:00am

www.aplmn.org

Every Wednesday and Thursday Blind Draw Cornhole Tournament –Scoremagic at Lansing Corner from 6:30pm-9:00pm

Every Friday, Friday Night Game Night at Ratatoskr Games from 6:30pm-9:00pm

Every Sunday Bingo at the American Legion Post 91 form 12:00pm-2:30pm www.facebook.com

April 1st - 3rd

Book Donation Days at The Hormel Nature Center 8:00am – 5:00pm

April 4 th

Art Expression at the YMCA from 3:30pm- 5:00pm

www.facebook.com/

austinmnfriendsofthelibrary

April 5th

Fused Glass Garden Stakes at the Austin ArtWorks Center from 10:00am-4:00pm

www.austinareaarts.org

April 5 th

Trace Bundy at the Paramount Theatre from 7:30pm – 9:30pm

www.austinareaarts.org

April 6th

Let’s Glow Skating at the Riverside Arena from 4:00pm – 5:30pm

April 7th

Let’s Glow Skating at the Riverside Arena from 2:00pm- 3:30pm

April 9th

New Moon Intention Setting at Sangha Yoga Studio from 7:00pm- 8:15pm

sanghayogaandwellness. com/events

School House Rock Live JR at The Matchbox Theatre from 7:00pm-8:30pm

www.

matchboxchildrenstheatre. org

April 11th

Digital Trivia Evening at the Austin Public Library from 5:00pm-6:00pm

www.aplmn.org

April 12th - April 14th

Pancho and Lefty Spring

Retreat at The Holiday Inn Conference Center from 8:00am Friday April 12th to 5:00pm Sunday

April 14th www. calicohutchquiltshop.com/ pages/quilt-retreats

Calendar of Events

April 12th

ASD Rec Night – Grades K-6 at the YMCA from 6:00pm-8:00pm ymcaatacrc.org

Auditions for Summerset Theatre Season 56 at The Frank W. Bridges Theatre from 6:00pm9:00pm www. summersettheatre.org/ auditions

Austin Bruins Vs St. Cloud Norsemen at the Riverside Arena from 7:00pm-9:30pm www.austinbruins.com

April 14th

Artrageous at the

Paramount Theatre from 2:00pm-4:00pm www. austinareaarts.org

April 15th -17th

Pancho & Lefty Spring

Retreat (Caboose Retreat) at The Holiday Inn Austin Conference Center from 8:00am April 15th to 5:00pm April 17th

www.calicohutchquiltshop. com/pages/quilt-retreats

April 18th

Karaoke at the Austin VFW from 5:00pm-9:00pm www. facebook.com/AustinVFW

ArtRocks Open Jams at The Austin ArtWorks Center from 7:00pm-9:00pm

www.austinareaarts.org

April 19th – April 21st

PANCHO & LEFTY SPRING RETREAT - 2ND WEEKEND

RETREAT Holiday Inn Austin Conference Center from April 19 @ 8:00 am - April 21 @ 5:00 pm

www.calicohutchquiltshop. com/pages/quilt-retreats

April 23rd

ASD Teen/Young Movie Night at the Paramount Theatre from 6:00pm-8:00pm

www.hormelhistorichome. org

April 24th -27th

April 29th

You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown at the Frank W. Bridges Theatre from 7:00pm-9:00pm

April 30th

VFW Monthly Dinner at the VFW Post 1216 from 5:00pm-7:00pm

www.facebook.com/ AustinVFW

May 4th – May 5th

Cedar River Archery Club – May 3D shoot www. cedarriverarcheryclub.com

May 4th

You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown at the Frank W. Bridges Theatre from 7:00pm-9:00pm riverland.edu/tickets

April 26th – April 28th

Minnesota Junior Spring Classic at the Mower County Fairgrounds

www.mowercountyfair.com

April 26th

ASD Rec Night Grades 7-12 at the YMCA from 6:00pm-8:00pm ymcaatacrc.org/

April 27th

Beer Bacon Beignet 2024 at the Packer Arena

Mower County Grown Music Fest from 2:00pm-5:00pm

Wheel Throwing Bootcamp at The Austin ArtWorks Center from 10:00am-3:00pm

www.austinareaarts.org

May 5th

HANDEL'S MESSIAH - AUSTIN SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA at the Austin High School from 2:00pm-3:30pm

austinmnsymphony.org/ concerts

May 10th

Paramount Theatre Open House from 12:00pm-5:00pm

www.austinareaarts.org

ASD Rec Night Grades K-6 at the YMCA from 6:00pm-8:00pm ymcaatacrc.org

May 16th

Karaoke at the Austin

VFW Post 1216 from 5:00pm-9:00pm

www.facebook.com/

AustinVFW/

ArtRocks Open Jams at the Austin ArtWorks Center from 7;00pm-9:00pm

www.austinareaarts.org

May 18th

2nd Annual Spring Into Summer Craft and Vendor Show at the Mower County Fairgrounds

www.mowercountyfair.com

May 20th – May 22nd

Creative Combination

Watercolor and Acrylic Workshop at the Austin ArtWorks Center

www.austinareaarts.org

May 21st

ASD Teen/Young Adult

Calendar of Events

Game Night at LIFE Mower County from 6:30pm-8:00pm

www.lifemowercounty.org

May 24th

ASD Rec Night Grades 7-12 at the YMCA from 6:00pm-8:00pm ymcaatacrc.org

May 28th

VFW Monthly Dinner at the VFW Post 1216 from 5:00pm-7:00pm

www.facebook.com/ AustinVFW

June 7th – June 9th

Austin Stars Tournament 14’s www.austinallstarsbaseball. com

June 8th & 9th

Cedar River Archery Club –May 3D Shoot

www.cedarriverarcheryclub. com

June 13th -16th

Annie at the Frank W. Bridges Theatre from 7:00pm-10:00pm summersettheatre.org

June 15th

Discover Science Together at the Hormel Institute from 9:00am-12:00pm

www.hi.umn.edu/education

June 16th – June 20th

American Junior Golf Association at the Austin Country Club

June 20th

Karaoke at the Austin VFW Post 1216 from 5:00pm-9:00pm

www.facebook.com/ AustinVFW

June 21st

Lama Yoga at the Mower County Fairgrounds

www.mowercountyfair.com

June 21st – June 23rd

Lama Show 2024 at the Mower County Fairgrounds

www.mowercountyfair.com/ Pro Horseshoe Tournament

June 21st -23rd

Annie at the Frank W. Bridges Theatre from 7:00pm-10:00pm

June 25th

VFW Monthly Dinner at the Austin VFW from 5:00pm-7:00pm

www.facebook.com/ AustinVFW

June 26th – June 28th

Minnesota Newspaper Association Summer Meeting at the Holiday Inn

Austin Conference Center

June 28th – June 30th

Gopher Qualifier Baseball Tournament

www.myas.org/gstc

July 2nd – July 4th

Freedom Festival at Bandshell Community Park

www.freedomfestaustin. com

July 6th & 7th

Cedar River Archery Club –May 3D Shoot

www.cedarriverarcheryclub. com

July 12th – July 14th

Gopher State 15U AA Tournament

www.myas.org/gstc

July 18th

Karaoke at the Austin VFW Post 1216 from 5:00pm-9:00pm

www.facebook.com/ AustinVFW

July 30th

VFW Monthly Dinner at the VFW Post 1216 from 5:00pm-7:00pm

www.facebook.com/ AustinVFW

Calendar of Events

July 31st – August 4th

Bright Star at the Frank W. Bridges Theatre from 7:00pm-10:00pm summersettheatre.org

August 3rd

Cedar River Archery Club

Annual Kids Day from 9:00am-1:00pm

www.cedarriverarcheryclub. com

August 6th -11th

Mower County Fair

www.mowercountyfair.com

August 15th

Karaoke at the Austin VFW Post 1216 from 5:00pm-9:00pm

www.facebook.com/

AustinVFW/

August 17th & 18th

Cedar River Archery Club –Targeting Cancer Shoot

www.cedarriverarcheryclub. com

August 17th

River Rats Car Club Car

Show at Lafayette Park from 10:00am-4:00pm

August 24th & 25th

Austin ArtWorks Festival

Cedar River Archery Club –Traditional Only Shoot

www.cedarriverarcheryclub. com

August 27th

VFW Monthly Dinner at Post 1216 from 5:00pm-7:00pm

www.facebook.com/

AustinVFW

September 7th & 8th

Cedar River Archery Club –May 3D Shoot

September 12th

SMTA Regional Meeting

September 13th -15th

National Barrow Show at the Mower County Fairgrounds

www.mowercountyfair.com

September 19th

KARAOKE @ THE AUSTIN

VFW Post 1216 from 5:00pm-9:00pm

www.facebook.com/

AustinVFW

September 20th Class of 1957 & 1956 Austin Reunion

September 24th

VFW Monthly Dinner at Post 1216 from 5:00pm-7:00pm

www.facebook.com/ AustinVFW

October 13th 14 th Annual Tast of Mower County

www.lifemowercounty.org

October 17th

Karaoke at the Austin

Calendar of Events

VFW Post 1216 from 5:00pm-9:00pm

www.facebook.com

AustinVFW

October 18th -20th

AUSTI-CON 2024 at the Holiday Inn Austin Conference Center

October 19th

Masquerade Ball –Payitforward Benefit 2024 at the Austin Country Club from 6:00pm-11:00pm

www.payitforwardtng.org

November 1st -3rd

Ugly Christmas Sweater Fall Quilting Retreat at the Holiday Inn Austin Conference Center

www.calicohutchquiltshop. com/pages/quilt-retreats

November 4th – 6th

Ugly Christmas Sweater Fall Quilting Retreat ( Caboose Retreat) at the Holiday Inn

Austin Conference Center

www.calicohutchquiltshop. com/pages/quilt-retreats

November 8th – 10th

UGLY CHRISTMAS SWEATER

FALL QUILTING RETREAT 2ND WEEKEND RETREAT

Holiday Inn Austin Conference Center

www.calicohutchquiltshop. com/pages/quilt-retreats

November 13th – 15th

MN/IA Flood Plain Gathering

November 21st

Karaoke at the Austin VFW Post 1216 from 5:00pm-9:00pm

www.facebook.com/ AustinVFW

December 19th

Ruby’s Pantry at the Mower County Fairgrounds from 4:00pm-6:30pm

www.mowercountyfair.com

Karaoke at the Austin VFW Post 1216 from 5:00pm-9:00pm

www.facebook.com/ AustinVFW

December 20th

VFW Bingo at Post 1216 from 5:30-8:00pm

www.facebook.com/ AustinVFW/

JAY C. HORMEL NATURE CENTER

Explore over 500 acres of prairie, forests, and wetlands at the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center. As you wander the 9+ miles of trails, be on the lookout for a variety of wildlife!

INTERPRETIVE CENTER – SCHOOL PROGRAMS –SUMMER ADVENTURE CLASSES – FREE PROGRAMS

EQUIPMENT RENTAL – SOLA FIDE OBSERVATORY –ACTION TRACK CHAIRS – FRIENDS OF THE HORMEL

NATURE CENTER

For additional details on programs and classes, or to join as a member, please visit www.hormelnaturecenter.org.

FALL/WINTER EVENTS

Looking for more information on what is coming up at the nature center? Check out all the details for what programs and classes we will be offering on our Programs & Events page!

Interpretive Center Hours:

Monday thru Saturday: 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Sunday: 1:00-5:00 p.m. (Closed City of Austin holidays)

Trail Hours: 6:00 a.m.-10:00 p.m. daily

Trail Map

www.hormelnaturecenter.org

1304 21st St NE, Austin, MN 55912

Phone: (507) 437-7519 | Email: info@ hormelnaturecenter.org

CEDAR RIVER WATERSHED DISTRICT

This summer, the Cedar River State Water Trail is offering 25 miles of a flowing path through a mostly wooded corridor to the Minnesota-Iowa border.

Started a decade ago, the state water trail begins at Mower County Road 2 (east of the village of Lansing) and flows through the City of Austin and down to Stateline Road, west of Lyle.

A new, updated water trail map for the Cedar River is available through the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources’ online (search for “Cedar River State Water Trail”). Cedar River Watershed District also has printed, fold-out maps available at its Austin office, 1408 21st Ave. N.W.

River levels also are important to know before your trip down the river. Real-time river levels can be found online via the DNR’s Cedar River State Water Trail’s website. Just search online for “Cedar River State Water Trail” and, on the site, you will find the link for “River Levels” for all state water trails.

SING PLAY LEARN WITH MacPhail®

Designed for a child’s specific stage of development, each class encourages children to explore musical concepts and to experiment with new instruments. Your child will develop school readiness skills in an active learning environment that feels like playtime!

INDIVIDUAL LESSONS

MacPhail’s outstanding faculty is experienced in teaching beginning through advanced music lessons for children, youth, and adult learners.

MUSIC THERAPY: NO MUSICAL ABILITY IS NECESSARY! Board-certified music therapists address a clients physical, emotional, cognitive, and/or social needs. After assessing the strengths and needs of each client, our health professionals provide treatment that may include creating, singing, playing an instrument, and moving to and/or listening to music.

GROUP CLASSES & ENSEMBLES

There is something to be said about being part of a group. You gain a sense of belonging. Group activities are fun and rewarding. If you are looking for a great way to meet some new people, to try something new, or to bring your musicianship to the next level, then group classes or joining an ensemble may be right for you.

MUSIC FOR LIFE™ 55+

MUSIC EDUCATION & CREATIVE ARTS FOR ADULTS 55+

MacPhail Music for Life™ is an interactive music education and creative arts program that brings the many benefits of music into the lives of more than 2,000 older adults each year.

SUMMER CAMPS

MacPhail summer music camps blend high-quality instruction from experienced, professional teaching artists with the fun and excitement of making music with other students who share your love of music.

HORMEL HISTORIC HOME

208 4th Ave NW, Austin, MN 55912-3036

507-433-4243

Built in 1871 The Hormel Historic Home strives to preserve the Home and History of the George A. and Lillian Hormel Family. Today, it serves as a house museum and Peace Garden along with a 250 seat Carriage Hall Event Center. Open to the public Monday-Friday 10am-4:30pm. Adults are $5 per person and children are free.

Music education for everyone. Beginners to advanced.

All ages welcome. 35 instruments and voice.

macphail.org

Sing Play Learn with MacPhail® (6 weeks to 8 years)

Individual Instruction Group Classes & Ensembles

MacPhail Music for Life™ (55+ lessons & classes)

Music Therapy

MacPhail Center for Music – Austin 205 4th Street NW, Suite B Austin, MN 55912

HISTORIC PARAMOUNT THEATRE

125 4th Ave NE, Austin, MN 55912 (507) 434-0934

One of only four atmospheric theaters remaining in Minnesota, the Historic Paramount Theatre was built in 1929 and served as a “first run” movie house until 1975, then as a disco bar, teen club, and comedy club from ‘75 to ‘87. Austin Area Arts continues to present a full season of performing arts and make the theatre available to the community and artists for private rental.

GREIBROKS MINI HISTORY FARM

Five miles South of Oakland, County Rd. 34, Austin, MN

This 40-room farmhouse houses a collection of 700 mini tractors, trucks, trains, airplanes and other toys.

SOLA FIDE OBSERVATORY

53680 180th St. Austin, MN 55912

507-437-7519

Discover the night sky during our free observatory events! Sola Fide Observatory is open to the public on specified Saturdays throughout the year. On these select evenings, Nature Center staff and volunteers are available to assist the public in viewing the night sky (dependant on clear skies)

53680 180th St. Austin, MN 55912

For more information call the Nature Center at 507-437-7519 or visit hormelnaturecenter.org/sola-fide-observatory

RYDJOR BIKE SHOP - MUSEUM

219 Main St N Austin, MN 55912 (507) 433-7571

Enjoy the 85 bicycles on display represent the history of cycling, and the latest addition is a 2003 Waterford owned by the late comedian Robin Williams.

SPAM MUSEUM AND VISITOR CENTER

101 3rd Ave NE, Austin, MN 55912-344

507-437-5100

The newly built, 14,000 square foot museum features 9 SPAMtastic galleries with interactive games and photo opportunities. Admission is free to all visitors.

Austin Baptist Chapel

2200 12th St SW, Austin

Austin Christian Fellowship

1110 24th Ave. SW, Austin • 437-6327

Austin Church of Christ (Christian)

103 2nd St SW, Austin • 433-2894 www.austincofc.org

Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church (WELS)

2103 8th St SW, Austin • 437-6461

Bethlehem Church

1500 4th Ave. SE, Austin • 433-3705 www.bethlehemfree.org office@bethlehemfree.org

Cedar River Church of Christ

1006 12th St. SW, Austin • 437-4927

Christ Episcopal Church

301 3rd Ave NW, Austin • 433-3782 www.christchurchaustin.org office@christchurchaustin.org

The Church of Jesus Christ Of Latter Day Saints

404 31st St. NW, Austin • 433-9042

Crane Community Chapel

1111 9th St NE, Austin • 433-5844 www.cranechapel.org

Cornerstone Assemblies of God

1403 1st Ave SW, Austin • 433-7008 www.cornerstoneaustin.org

Faith Church

1800 12th St SW, Austin • 437-1000 www.faithchurchaustin.org

First United Methodist Church

204 1st Ave NW, Austin • 433-8839 www.austinfumc.org firstumc@questoffice.net

First Congregational Church, UCC

1910 3rd Ave NW, Austin • 433-2301 www.churchataustincongoucc.org

Grace Baptist Church

Austin Churches

1700 Oakland Ave W, Austin • 437-2473 www.gbcmn.com

Grace Lutheran Church

2001 SE 6th Ave, Austin • 433-3445 www.graceluthaustin.com

Holy Cross Lutheran Church (LCMS)

300 16th Street NE, Austin 437-2107

International Word Fellowship Church

827 NE 4th Ave, Austin • 437-7448

Jehovah’s Witnesses

2115 5th Ave SE, Austin • 437-6441 www.watchtower.org

Keys to Life Apostolic Church

501 2nd St. SE, Austin • 437-8806 Spanish Classes & Worship www.keystolifeaustin.com

Lighthouse of Hope

2909 W. Oakland Ave, Austin 507-396-8555

Living Bible Church

301 4th St. SW, Austin • 433-5574 www.austinlivingbible.com

Moscow Lutheran ELCA

25826 870th Ave, Austin 507-373-0069 or 507-373-1737

New Beginnings in Christ Church

The Cedars of Austin, 700 1st Drive NW 507-533-4962

Our Savior’s Lutheran Church

1600 W. Oakland Ave, Austin • 437-4516

www.oursaviorsaustin.org

Queen of Angels Catholic Church

1001 E. Oakland Ave, Austin • 433-1888

www.austincatholic.org

Rebirthing Faith

1922 5th Ave NE, Austin MN • 438-0820

Rebirthingfaith1922@gmail.com

Red Oak Grove Lutheran Church

30456 Mower Freeborn Rd, Austin 437-3088

www.roglutheran.org

Saint Peter’s Lutheran Church

Co. Rd. 46 (East of) Austin • 433-6709

Salvation Army

409 1st Ave NE, Austin • 473-4566

www.usc.salvationarmy.org

Spirit Bear Mission

1401 28th Ave NE, Austin • 279-9294

St. Augustine Catholic Parish

405 4th St NW, Austin • 437-4537

www.staugustinestedward.org

St. Edward Catholic Parish

2000 W. Oakland Ave, Austin • 433-1841

www.staugustinestedward.org

St. John’s Lutheran Church LCMS

1200 13th Ave NW, Austin • 433-2642

www.stjohnsaustinlcms.org

St. Mark’s Living Chapel

400 15th Ave SW, Austin • 434-7215

St. Olaf Lutheran Church

306 2nd St NW, Austin • 433-8857

www.solc.org

St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

Member Church of the Lutheran Confession (CLC)

2100 16th St. SW, Austin • 433-8191

www.stpaulclcaustin.com

Trinity Lutheran Church - WELS

63047 230 St, Austin • 433-4006

Westminster Presbyterian Church

802 4th St SW, Austin • 433-3258

www.westminsteraustin.com

United Pentecostal Church

Spanish Services

1000 1st Ave, Austin • 507-446-0472

Adams DAIRY DAYS June 7th - 9th, 2024

The Village of Brownsdale was legally established on July 7th, 1856, although the first settlers came in the spring of 1855. At this time 3 Norwegian families filed claims to land. Here they built sod homes that measured 10 feet by 12 ft. which was the requirement at that time. The 3 families of the original settlers sold their claims and moved west in the spring of 1856.

Among the first to come here in the spring of 1856 were the Brown brothers, Hosmer and Andrew. Only a trail ran east to west through town which they named Main Street. The road section north to south was called Mill St. because the Brown Brothers were setting up a saw mill on the South bank of the creek.

Visit City of Brownsdale Facebook page for more events and details!

May 10th- May 11th

City Wide Garage Sales

Old Fashioned 4th of July

Come and enjoy Blooming Prairie’s famous old fashioned 4th of July celebration, the largest celebration in southern Minnesota! Check out the Blooming Prairie website for events and times. www.bloomingprairie.com

July 26th

Annual Golf Fun Day

Themes is Awesome Blossoms

Hosted at BP Country Club

Recreation

Austin Municipal Swimming Pool

600 Main St. North • 507-433-1881 • www.ci.austin.mn.us

Olympic-size pool with a 104-foot waterslide with “S” curve. Wading pool available. Open M-F 1:00-4:30; M,W, & T 7:00-8:30; Sat 1:00-6:00; Sun 2:00-7:00 from early June through mid August.

Austin Skate Park

Hormel Century Parkway

In-line skaters and skate boarders can enjoy a free outdoor Tier 1 park.

Mower County Youth Activity Center (YAC)

Riverside Arena 501 2nd Ave. NE • 507-433-1881

Youth ages 11-18 can enjoy a variety of different activities.

Chateau Raceway

54219 266th St., Lansing • 507-440-8238

www.chateauspeedway.com

Dirt oval track, 3/8 mile long. Friday night beginning at 7:30 p.m., during the summer.

Deer Creek Speedway & Campground

25262 U.S. 63, Spring Valley • 507-346-2342

www.deercreekspeedway.com

Deer Creek is a 60+ acre facility with one of the Midwest’s most state of the art racing complexes. This high banked 3/8 dirt-clay race track puts on an average of 30 events a year.

Disc Golf at Driesner Park South

8th St. SE

Rigorous twelve-chain basket course. Course maps are available at Austin Park and Recreation at 121 4th Ave. NE. No fees.

East Side Lake

8th Ave. & Oakland Place NE

Located by Oakland Place East, the lake features a boat launch, play ground equipment, shelters and picnic gazebo.

Echo Lanes

1600 10th Dr. SE

• 507-437-8241

www.echolanesaustin.com

36-lane bowling alley features daily special events.

Lake Louise State Park

12385 766th Ave. • Mower County Rd. 14 • 507-324-5249

www.dnr.state.mn.us

This park contains two spring-fed streams, hiking trails, horse trails, interpretive trail, snowmobile trails, cross country ski trails and bike trails.

Packer Arena

601 NE 7th St.

1-507-433-1881

www.ci.austin.mn.us

17,000 square foot multipurpose arena. Ice available OctoberApril.

Pedestrian and Bike Trails

3.3 miles of hard-surfaced path starting at the Hormel Century Parkway and finishing at Community Park.

Riverland Community College Complex

1900 8th Ave. NW

507-433-1881

Four-diamonds, full-size baseball fields, concessions, restrooms available.

Riverside Arena

501 2nd Ave. NE

507-433-1881

www.ci.austin.mn.us

This multi-purpose air-conditioned building features a 17,000 square foot sheet of ice from November through March.

Snowmobile Trails

200 miles of snowmobile trails that are groomed regularly. These trails connect with more than 800 miles of trails in Southern Minnesota.

Todd Park

11th St. NE

507-433-1881

Two complexes featuring nine lit softball diamonds, concession, baseball diamond,playground, sand volleyball courts, 27-hole disc golf course, five open pavilions, and three regulation-size soccer fields.

Wescott Field

1300 W. Oakland Ave.

507-433-0426

Community Athletic Facility includes a nine-lane Mondo track, three soccer/football fields, a baseball field and six new tennis courts.

YMCA

501 4th Ave NE

507-433-1804

www.ymca-austin.org

For youth development, healthy living & social responsibility

STEELE COUNTY EVENTS

Farmers’ Market in Central Park - Saturdays May – October | 7am-12pm

Corky’s Early Bird Softball Tournament - May 3 – 5, 2024

Rustic Mama’s Spring Craft Show - May 4, 2024

Owatonna Motor Company Summer Series- Minnesota Cutting Horse

Competitions - May 17-19; June 14-16; July 5-7

11@7 Concert Series - Every Thursday evening May 30 – Aug 8th

Downtown Thursdays - June 6th, July 11th, August 1st, September 5th, 2024

Smokin’ in Steele BBQ & Blues Festival - May 31-June 1, 2024

Harry Wenger Marching Band Festival - June 15, 2024

Extravaganza at the Village of Yesteryear - July 14, 2024 | 12:00-4:00PM

Owatonna Gem Days - July 18-20, 2024

Steele County Free Fair - August 13 – 18, 2024

State School Orphanage Museum’s Fall Celebration -

September 21, 2024

Rustic Mamas’ Market - September 14, 2024

Spooktacular Festivities - October 26, 2024

Lighted Holiday Parade - Dec 6, 2024

Christmas in the Village - Dec 6-7, 2024

Mantorville Historic Mantorville

Mantorville is a historic delight to visit. It is nestled in a picturesque valley of the Zumbro River. You and your family will discover the same charm that brought the Mantor brothers in 1854 with their families, and inspired the citizens of Mantorville to preserve the entire 12 block downtown by placing it on the National Historic Registry in 1975. This status is shared with such places as Williamsburg, Philadelphia, and Boston. There is a wealth of architectural heritage, talented artists, fine dining, entertainment, exquisite shopping, festivals and everyday activities for all ages and interests.

ALBERT LEA LAKE

Fishing, small boats & sailing. Lake access from Frank Avenue at the south end the of channel, Little Island at Myre Big Island State Park, metal ramp; South Shore Drive-concrete ramp. Located by the channel’s entrance is - The “Pelican Breeze II” Cruise Boat.

FOUNTAIN LAKE

Fishing, water skiing and sailing. Located in the heart of Albert Lea; boat access located off Richway Drive and Highway 13. Multiple fishing docks located in the parks. Catch walleye, northerns, black bullheads, yellow perch, black crappie, channel catfish, white sucker, bluegill and large mouth bass in our area lakes.

COUNTY LAKES FOR RECREATION USE

Pickerel Lake, Freeborn Lake, Bear Lake, Geneva Lake, Twin Lakes and State Line Lake, Emmons.

skiing and canoeing are popular activities enjoyed by the approximately 125,000 annual visitors. The trails take visitors around wet lowlands, oak savanna, and grasslands. The State Park is an oasis of natural diversity in a prairie landscape surrounded by agricultural land uses. The park marshes draw hundreds of waterfowl during migration. Special features of this region’s geologic, botanic and human history can be seen in this park. One of the most unique aspects of the park is the 116 acre Big Island, covered with maple/basswood forest. Another is the glacial esker located in the northeast section of the park. For a full calendar of events please call (507) 379-3403.

ALBERT LEA AQUATIC CENTER

MYRE-BIG ISLAND STATE PARK

19499 780th Ave., Albert Lea (507) 379-3403

This 2,073 acre State Park is located 3 miles southeast of Albert Lea on Co. Rd. 38 (Exit 11 on I-35). Hiking, biking, camping, wildlife watching, snowshoeing, cross country

The City of Albert Lea’s Aquatic Center features a zero depth splash pool with interactive play features for children including tumble buckets, deck sprays, a mushroom waterfall, bubblers, and a five arm water fountain. And best of all – don’t miss the 226 foot water slide!!! For our patron’s comfort, there are several large, colorful shade structures so that you can get out of the sun while you watch the kids play, or take a break from your trips down the slide. A family bath house is located adjacent to the feature pool The newly renovated main pool ranges in depth from 3 and a half feet to 13 feet and has two one meter diving boards. Swimming lessons and special events are also offered at the Aquatic Center throughout the summer. The pool is handicap accessible.

PELICAN BREEZE II CRUISE BOAT

Enjoy a breathtaking cruise on picturesque Albert Lea Lake on the Pelican Breeze II Cruise Boat located at Frank Hall Park. The Pelican Breeze has been cruising one of the largest natural bodies of water between Lake Minnetonka and the

Gulf of Mexico since 2001. Sit back and relax on our 60’ river boat replica. Enjoy wildlife and the historic sites as your guide describes the area and history behind this charming natural area. Seats approximately 60 passengers, is handicap accessible, on-board bathrooms, mini-bar and is enclosed for inclement weather. Catering, bar and entertainment are available on request with a cruising season of late May until early October.

SPLASH PAD

Located on the north end of Broadway Ave. in Downtown Albert Lea across the street from Fountain Lake Park.

MARION ROSS PERFORMING ARTS CENTER

ACT - ALBERT LEA COMMUNITY THEATER

147 N. Broadway Ave., Albert Lea, MN

Box Office 507-377-4371

Order you tickets on-line at www.ActOnBroadway.com

Home of ACT Theater, comedies, dance and Metropolitan Opera, National theater in HD along with special events and national touring artists.

Photo by Pat Parsons

Northwood • Oakland • Rose Creek • Toeterville

Employment

“I was supported by strong, male role models and now I want to be there for others.”

- Sam, Nexus Family Healing

At Nexus-Gerard, you can change lives – including your own.

At Nexus, we help children, individuals, families – and employees – find paths to brighter futures.

Join our team as a Youth Care Professional where you can start a meaningful and rewarding career.

Scan here to learn more and apply online!

Nexus’ Benefits Include:

• Competitive Pay: Starting at $17/hour

• 4 weeks of paid time off (PTO) annually

• 64 Floating Holiday hours

• Paid Life Insurance, STD, LTD, HD medical

• $500 Hiring Bonus

• $500 Referral Bonus

• Tuition Assistance Program

• 401k Match up to 3.5%

EAT LIKE A LOCAL:

Alicia’s Bakery 1017 2 nd Ave NE, Austin, MN

507-437-4860

Bakery

Angry Hog Brewery and Taproom 500 23 rd Ave NW, Austin, MN 507-402-6718 Offer a number of varieties of their own hand- crafted ales, porters and stouts.

B&J Bar and Grill 114 4 th Ave NE, Austin, MN 507-433-9830

Amazing food, delicious cocktails, and cold beer!

Bella Victoria 1801 14 th St NW #1, Austin, MN 507-396-8800

Italian Restaurant

China Star 1906 8 th St NW, Austin, MN 507-355-5888

Chinese & Asian Buffet

Dusty’s Bar & Lounge 422 N. Main St., Austin, MN

507-396-8446 Casual dining with a varied American menu, a full bar with a large selection of craft beer.

El Mariachi 227 Main St N., Austin, MN 507-434-5975

Mexican Restaurant

El Patron 1906 8 th St NW Ste F 507-355-2045

Authentic Mexican Cuisine and full bar

George’s Pizza 209 N. Main St. S., Austin, MN 507-437-6677

Pizzeria

Gravity Storm Brewery 119 2 nd Ave NE., Austin, MN

507-396-2107 Brewery and Taproom

Grinders Deli 604 3 rd Ave NW, Austin, MN 507-509-9098

Sub/Sandwich Shop

Hkakabo Razi Asian Restaurant 501 1 st NW C, Austin, MN

507-509-9028 Asian Restaurant

Kenny’s Oak Grill 307 W Oakland Ave, Austin, MN

507-437-4135 Classic diner style recipes

Lansing Corner 27017 US-218, Austin, MN

507-433-9304

Bar & Grill

Old Mill 3504 11 th PI NE, Austin, MN 507-437-2076 Homey, circa-1949 restaurant in an 1850s building offering steaks, burgers & ribs, plus a bar.

Piggy Blues Bar-B-Que 323 Main St. N., Austin, MN

507-434-8485 Simple spot for BBQ classics, including shredded pork, ribs, & brisket, plus hearty sides & burgers.

Steve’s Pizza 421 Main St. N., Austin, MN 507-437-3249

Authentic hand-tossed pizza and more!

Tendermaid 217 4 th Ave NE, Ausitn, MN 507-437-7907

Burgers & Old-Fashioned Malt Shop

Tienda Y Taqueria Guerrero 301 4th Ave NE., Austin, MN

507-437-4106 Mexican Restaurant

The Downtown Grill 119 2nd Ave NE, Austin, MN 507-509-9070 American food-based restaurant

Three in One Bar & Restaurant Hollandale, MN

507-889-3253 Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner specials.

Austin City Government

PLANNING FOR AND INVESTING IN OUR FUTURE BY…

Providing a safe, high quality community to raise children, which will encourage generations to remain in (or return to) Austin Coordinating and focusing efforts to create well paying jobs Respecting and understanding the values and cultures of all our citizens Encouraging a healthy, diverse economy and a vibrant, attractive central business district Creating a high level of recreational and quality of life opportunities for all ages Partnering with other elected entities and the private sector to “grow our community together”

CITY GOVERNMENT NUMBERS

City Hall - 507-437-9940

Mayor - 507-437-9965

Police Dept - 507-437-9400

or 911 * if emergency

Fire Dept. - 507-433-3405

Park & Rec Dept -

507-433-1881

Engineering Dept -

507-437-9950

Street/Sewer Depts507-434-0067

Waste Water Treatment -

507-437-7701

COUNTY GOVERNMENT NUMBERS

Main Information

507-437-9494

Assessors Office

507-437-9440

Attorneys Office

507-437-9428

Auditor/Treasurers Office

507-437-9456

Board of Commissioners

507-437-9549

Correctional Services

507-437-9454

Coordinators Office

507-437-9549

Court Administration

507-437-9465

Data Processing

507-437-9527

Emergency Management

507-437-9483

Extension Office

507-437-9434

Family Connections Office

507-437-9700

GIS-Data Processing

507-437-9527

Health & Human Services

507-437-9701

Human Resources

507-437-9549

Law Enforcement Center

507-437-9400

Public Works

507-437-7718

Recorders Office

507-437-9446

Recycling & Household

Hazardous Waste

507-437-9951

Sheriffs Office

507-437-9400

Veterans Services Office

507-434-2712

Mechanic and boiler/refrigeration positions available

Pay starts at $29.75

Hiring Center:

1004 18th Ave NW

open hours:

Wed: 8:00am- 4:00pm

Thurs: 8:00am – 4:00pm

Fri: 9:00am – 12:00pm

Apply online

www.HormelJob.com

BENEFITS:

•Competitive benefits, including medical, dental, vision, prescription coverage, life insurance and more

•Paid vacation and holidays

•401(k), pension and profit sharing

•Access to free health care clinic for team members and dependents

•Free two-year college education for children of team members

A total rewards benefit value of thousands of dollars above your starting wage!