SummerScape 2024

Summerscape 2024 Summerscape

Outdoor recreation and community events around Detroit Lakes, Perham and Wadena

The hillside next to the Detroit Lakes City Park Bandshell was nearly filled to capacity with blankets and lawn chairs on July 14, 2023, as the Church of Cash played the final Trucks and Tunes concert of 2023. This year’s Trucks and Tunes series runs from June 7-Aug. 23.

music acts scheduled to play at Detroit Lakes City Park bandshell June through August

BY VICKI GERDES Summerscape

Detroit Lakes Tribune file photos

The Detroit Lakes City Park will once again be filled with music — and food! — on both Tuesday and Friday nights this summer, thanks to Project 412, the Historic Holmes Theatre, the Fuller Center for Housing and a gaggle of local food trucks.

Both the Tuesdays in the Park and Friday Trucks & Tunes concert series are returning in June, with the “T-n-T” lineup being expanded to include three concerts per month, or nine in total, between June 7-Aug. 23.

“We’re practically doubling it (i.e., the total number of Trucks & Tunes concerts),” said Project 412 Executive Director Amy Stearns, noting that the local nonprofit organization sponsored the concert series for the first time in 2023 — and it was a huge success, which led to the expanded schedule for this year.

According to Michelle Maier, who helps coordinate the summer music-with-food-trucks series for Project 412, the number of food trucks that will be parked near the bandshell during those concerts has increased as well.

“I think I have about five or six of them signed up now, and I would love to see 10 or more out there,” she added.

“We’d like to have a real variety.”

The T-n-T schedule includes a mix of new and familiar faces, Stearns said, from “The Voice” alumni Kat Perkins and Chris Kroeze to returning favorites Post Traumatic Funk Syndrome — who will open the series on June 7 — and Martin Zellar, of Gear Daddies fame.

Shrubs, hanging baskets, tools, and much more!

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than 1200 different varieties of perennials!

420 3rd Ave. SE • Perham, MN (Hwy 78 & 4th St)

Detroit Lakes’ popular summer concert series, Tuesdays in the Park, returns to the City Park Bandshell on Tuesday, June 4, at 7 p.m. with a performance by the Lakes Area Community Concert Band.

“We hope Martin will actually be able to play at the bandshell this time,” she added, noting that his 2023 Trucks & Tunes appearance was relocated to Zorbaz due to rain.

Speaking of rain, Trucks & Tunes has shifted its alternate concert location from Zorbaz to Bucks Mill Brewing this year, Maier said — and if rain happens, the food trucks will be moving along with the musicians.

“The food trucks will be parked across the street from Bucks Mill on Washington Avenue,” Stearns said, adding that any rain relocations will be posted on Project 412’s website and social media pages before noon on the day of the concert.

The full T-n-T lineup will be as follows:

► June 7: Post Traumatic Funk Syndrome

► June 14: Michael Shynes Band

► June 21: Martin Zellar

► July 5: Mason Dixon Line

► July 12: Kat Perkins

► July 26: The 4 on the Floor

► Aug. 9: Pistol Whippin’ Party Penguins

► Aug. 16: Chris Kroeze

► Aug. 23: Adessa & the Beat

All concerts will start promptly at 5 p.m., and food

trucks will be on site until the music stops at around 8 p.m. Like last year, the concerts will be hosted by the local Broken Strings Guitar Club, who may be bringing along a few musical guests to keep attendees entertained between sets. The concerts are being offered free of charge (though the food and beverages are not).

Tuesdays in the Park returns June 4

Also returning to the City Park Bandshell this summer is the ever-popular Tuesdays in the Park concert series.

“We’ll be there every Tuesday through Aug. 27,” said Historic Holmes Theatre Marketing Coordinator Rachel Hofstrand.

The Holmes Theatre co-hosts the series along with the Fuller Center for Housing, which puts on a picnic supper every week before the music starts.

Fuller Center volunteers will be grilling up some hamburgers, hot dogs and brats at the picnic shelter nearest to the bandshell, then serving them up from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Each plate will also include several sides, and attendees can have their choice of beverages as well. The cost is a free will offering, with proceeds going toward the Fuller Center’s efforts to provide local, affordable housing for families in need.

“The picnic starts at 5:30 p.m., and the concert starts at 7,” Hofstrand added.

The Detroit Lakes Pavilion, also located at the City Park,

Food trucks are an essential part of the Trucks and Tunes experience at the Detroit Lakes City Park, though the number and variety of vendors may vary from week to week.

will be the rain site for the series. “If it rains, we will be moving inside the Pavilion,” she said.

This year’s lineup includes a host of familiar favorites, from the Lakes Area Community Concert Band — which opens and closes the season, with performances on June 4 and Aug. 27 — to Tim Eggebraaten (July 27) and Doc & the Scrubs (June 25 and Aug. 13).

The music will start a little early on June 18, Hofstrand said, as scheduled performers Blu Kanu will also be playing for a 6 p.m. “Music and Movement in the Park” event that is being co-hosted by the Holmes Theatre,

CLEAN,DRAIN,DRY

Detroit Lakes Early Childhood Family Education (ECFE) and the Early Childhood Initiative.

“Blu Kanu will provide a live performance geared for families with young children before their regular Tuesday in the Park concert,” Hofstrand said.

The full music lineup is as follows:

► June 4: Lakes Area Community Concert Band

► June 11: Steve Kelly and the Cherry Cherry Band (with their tribute to the music of Neil Diamond)

► June 18: Blu Kanu (come at 6 p.m. for a Detriot Lakes ECFE activity)

► June 25: Doc & the Scrubs

► July 2: Dakota Big Band

► July 9: Larry Swenson

► July 16: “One Man Band” Tony Oberto

► July 23: Tim Eggebraaten

► July 30: Jan Severson

► Aug. 6: Ulen Centennial Band

► Aug. 13: Doc & the Scrubs

► Aug. 20: Mark Fogelson

► Aug. 27: Lakes Area Community Concert Band

Though all the concerts are offered free of charge, “we do accept and appreciate free will donations,” Hofstrand said.

Because seating at the bandshell is limited to a handful of park benches, attendees are asked to bring lawn chairs and blankets to enjoy the music in comfort, she added.

LettingKids

Fuller Center for Housing volunteers grill up hamburgers, hot dogs and brats for the Picnics in the Park, a weekly fundraiser held prior to each Tuesdays in the Park concert at the Detroit Lakes City Park Bandshell.

Perham Farmer’s Market relocates for 2024

Live music every Tuesday night at 7pm in the DL City Park Bandshell. Bring a blanket or chair to sit on. Free Will donations accepted.

June 4 Lakes Area Community Concert Band

June 11 The Tribute Kings present the greatest hits of Neil Diamond and Bob Seger

June 18 Blu Kanu – Come early for DL ECFE activity!

June 25 Doc & the Scrubs

July 16 Tony Oberto - Singer, Keyboards, One Man Band

LivemusiceveryTuesdaynightat7pminthe DLCityParkBandshell.Bringablanketor chairtositon.Freewilldonationsaccepted.

July 2

Dakota Big Band

July 9 Larry Swenson

This

July 23 Tim Eggebraaten

July 30 Jan Severson

Aug. 6 Ulen Centennial Band

Aug. 13 Doc & the Scrubs

Aug. 20 Mark Fogelson

Aug. 27 Lakes Area Community Concert Band

EXPERIENCE

The Perham Farmer’s Market is returning in 2024 with more vendors and a new location along the Otter Trail Scenic Byway (County Highway 78). The vendors will set up on a grass area between Fox Street and Fifth Street SE. The event is held every Wednesday and Friday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. from May 29 through Oct 11.

“I’m really looking forward to the location being on the main drag,” said vendor Toli Lubitz. “It’s a busy area and about a half of a block from the PACC (Perham Area Community Center).

The owner of Homespun Creations by Toli said the sign-up sheet for vendors indicated there will be exponential growth this year.

Engage Program Manager Mindi Larson said the 10

regular vendors often found at previous Farmer’s Market events in Perham will be joined by as many or more new vendors offering baked goods, sweet treats, vegetables, honey, maple syrup, wine, pet treats, crafts, handmade jewelry, apparel and more.

“I think the more visible location is the reason we saw so many new vendors sign up,” Larson said. “It’s free to participate and no vendor fee is required to be there. Vendors can also come and go as they please.”

Vendor applications can be found at elevateotc.org/ farmers-market. Sign-up remains open through the Farmer’s Market season.

“We’re also looking for live music and food trucks,” she said.

Perham Farmer’s Market begins second year with Elevate at the helm

The Perham Farmer’s Market started several years ago, but the Elevate Program took leadership of the bi-weekly event last year.

The previous location for the market was along West Main Street. It had space for the vendors, as well as shade and foot traffic. However, it had to contend with the proximity of the train tracks and there was talk about moving it to a larger venue.

Larson said when the Main Street road project was green-lit, the need for a new location became a necessity.

“This year felt like it was a good time to test a new location,” she said.

Lubitz is also excited to see what the new location brings in the form of shoppers and vendors.

“I joined the Perham Farmer’s Market in 2021,” she said, noting it was a fun job after retiring from her court administration.

Shifting from analytical specifics to a creative thought process was a welcome change for the Perham resident. And, she was thankful to have a local venue to offer her variety of items that include hand-painted earrings to all-natural skin care products.

“It’s fun to see people I recognize, from shoppers to vendors, there is a camaraderie (at the Farmer’s Market in Perham),” she said. “It’s fun to see the same folks, but it is also fun to meet new ones. The more vendors, the more variety and I think people will enjoy that.”

BY FRANK LEE Summercape

Music lovers will soon have something new to sing about when the Wadena Area Chamber of Commerce presents its inaugural “Music in BN Park” summer concert series.

Four outdoor concerts will be offered at Burlington Northern Park along Aldrich Avenue Southwest. People are encouraged to bring their lawn chairs and enjoy the free concerts at 6 p.m. on Thursdays on June 27, July 11 and 18, and Aug. 8.

“We did do one outdoor concert last summer with Rick Adams,” said Dana Cantleberry, executive director of the Wadena Area Chamber of Commerce. “And we had about 135 people there and it went over really well.”

The Moorhead musician has more than 30 years of experience entertaining crowds with Fargo-Moorhead bands like Burbank Station, Buffalo Alice and The Roosters “and a reputation of giving the audience a show they will always remember and leave them wanting more.”

Cantleberry said of Adams, who sings country, and Americana and will kick off the new “Music in BN Park” concert series on June 27: “We had a flatbed trailer that we brought in and it went over really well. so this summer, we have four different dates for concerts.”

Rick Adams

Lakes Area Churches

Immanuel

Lutheran Church els/ wels

180 Swan St., Audubon, MN • 218-439-6259 Website: immanuelaudubon.com | email: immanuelels.outlook.com | Pastor John E. Merseth Sr.

Summer Worship: 10:00am September Through May: Sunday School & Bible Study 9:40am, Worship 10:30am (Our worship service can be seen on YouTube under Immanuel Lutheran Audubon, MN)

FAITH

LUTHERAN CHURCH

7:30 a.m. Faith Radio Ministry (KDLM 1340 AM) 9:30 a.m. Worship Service 10:45 a.m. Sunday School

FAITH CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

Administrator: Anita Thorson (218) 847-7375 | email: fcsthorson@arvig.net

24688 County Highway 6 (218) 847-1040

Pastor: Paul Larson faithlutherandetroitlakes.com email: flc@arvig.net

Worship Service 9:00 am No Sunday School during the summer Pastor

1401 Madison Avenue • Detroit Lakes, MN Visit our website for current information. www.trinitylutherandl.org

Senior Pastor Megan Clapp

Grace Lutheran Church 213 Roosevelt Avenue, Detroit Lakes, MN • 218-847-4568 www.gracelutherandl.org

Lakes Area Churches

Visiting or new to the lakes area and looking for a place of worship? Check out our area churches!

Zion Lutheran of Amor ELCA

36051 Co. Hwy. 74, Battle Lake – Off County Road 1 at Amor.

Summer Schedule: May 26th-August 25th Worship 9:00 a.m. Fellowship 10:00 a.m. *Communion 1st & 3rd Sundays www.zionamor.org

Lake Eunice Evangelical Free Church

a.m.

Dent United Methodist Church 9:00 am Worship

301 Main St, Dent, MN 56528 Rev. Joyce Slostad www.dentvergasumc.org

GRACE CONNECTION

56303 US Highway 10, New York Mills, MN 56567

Sunday Worship at 9:30 a.m.

Pastor Jeff Heisler 640-0107 mygraceconnection.com

DAYTON AVE. AND 1ST ST. SW

WADENA • 218-631-3928

SUNDAY WORSHIP 10:00 AM

Vergas United Methodist Church Worship- Sundays at 10:30 am 200 W Main St, Vergas, MN 56587

Rev. Joyce Slostad www.dentvergasumc.org

Caleigh, a folk and bluegrass trio from Bemidji, will follow on July 11 on some kind of staging at the park located next to The Depot, a historic train depot that also serves as home to the chamber.

“It’s mostly regional and local

talent,” Cantleberry said of the musical acts lined up for the intimate concert series in the park. “And it’s a much smaller venue.”

Caleigh’s sound is earthy and eclectic, according to Cantleberry, and the Northern Minnesota trio will perform a fusion of world folk, Celtic,

bluegrass, American old-time, original compositions and folk dance music.

“We are getting a Five Wings Arts Council grant to help pay for, to underwrite the expenses,” Cantleberry said. “I’m just trying to get the cost of the music covered.”

Caleigh

Discover Wadena!

Located in the heart of Wadena’s business district, Burlington Northern Park surrounds The Depot, which is on the National Register of Historic Places.

“We are going to have a food truck or food trucks and Drastic Measures Brewing (at the concerts), so there’ll be food and drink available in the park as well,” Cantleberry said. “Every concert, I want to have different food trucks there.”

Darren Quam from Battle Lake will take the stage on July 18 at the park, which includes a band shell, picnic area, benches and flowers.

“A lot of communities do this, so it’s been kind of on my wish list,” she said of the new concert series in Wadena. “And we have a beautiful park here, which is a perfect setup for outdoor music.”

Quam’s music is a unique blend of blues, rock and folk, drawing influence from some of the greatest blues and rock ‘n’ roll musicians of all time, according to Cantleberry, and he covers music from Bob Dylan, The Beatles, Mississippi John Hurt and others.

Cantleberry said of the concert series, “I just think it’s something that’s going to catch on. It’s on a Thursday night before people, if they do have weekend activities, they can come on a Thursday night and take in some great music.”

Wadenawelcomesvisitorsandfriendstoourcommunityof4,300!DiscovertheadventureandfunthatawaitsinWadena...

• DINING: Indulge in wood-fired pizza, German cuisine, authentic barbecue, Black Angus burgers, and homemade food like grandma makes!

• DRINK: Satisfy your thirst with fresh brews, sours and spirits at Drastic Measures Brewing and Little Round Still -- all made right here in Wadena!

• PARKS: Wadena is known as the “City of Parks” and maintains many acres of beautiful parks and picnic areas.

• SHOPPING: Oodles of options for women’s clothing, boutiques, a medspa, coffee shops and more!

• ENTERTAINMENT & FITNESS: The Cozy Theatre is a classic movie theatre with 3 screens -- including their newest with recliner seats! Local restaurants feature live music, karaoke and trivia, too! Enjoy a water park/indoor pool, fitness center and gym at the Maslowski Wellness Center.

• CAMPING: Sunnybrook Park camping features full hook-up and tent sites along the beautiful Whiskey Creek.

For more information, contact the Wadena Area Chamber of Commerce: Phone: (218) 632-7704 • Email: chamber@wadenacoc.com Website: wadenachamber.com Facebook: @WadenaAreaChamberofCommerce

Contact the Chamber and we’ll send you a FREE copy of our Tourism Guide!

Darren Quam

Pier Country

tures

“It’s

on Aug. 8.

Cantleberry said. “And it’s

Music in BN Park

► June 27: Rick Adams, country singer.

► July 11: Caleigh, folk and bluegrass trio.

► July 18: Darren Quam, jazz guitarist and singer.

► Aug. 8: .Pier Country, classic country band.

Pier Country

BY DETROIT LAKES TRIBUNE, PERHAM FOCUS AND WADENA PIONEER JOURNAL STAFF

Looking for information on the area’s best bets for outdoor adventure? Then look no further. Whether you prefer paddles or pedals for your recreational activities, the Lakes Area’s got what you’re looking for. With an abundance of parks, trails, rivers and, of course, lakes, there’s no excuse for boredom around these parts.

BIKING

On Land

Street biking is as simple as picking a local sidewalk, lake, park or trail to bike around. A list of trails is included here; visit local city and county websites for trail maps and additional information, or stop by a local chamber of commerce office.

Mountain biking trails and resources

Lakes Area Mountain Biking Alliance & Trails www.facebook.com/lambatmtb

Detroit Mountain Recreation Area

29409 170th St., Detroit Lakes 218-844-7669

detroitmountain.com

Mountain View Recreation Area

30119 Tower Road, Detroit Lakes 218-846-2612

co.becker.mn.us/dept/parks_recreation

Maplelag Resort

30501 Maplelag Road, Callaway 218-375-4466

Maplelag.com

Black’s Grove Park

33825 620th Ave., Wadena www.wadena.org/sunnybrook-campground-parks-trails

HIKING

From trails to parks to city sidewalks, there’s a plethora of places to put your foot down in the Lakes Area. Several of the best are noted here.

North Country Scenic Hiking Trail

Spanning seven states and over 4,600 miles, the North Country Hiking Trail is the longest hiking path in the United States. The trail through Becker County runs 62 miles from Itasca State Park to the Becker County-Otter Tail County line near Frazee. Suggested hikes on the trail include:

► North from the Highway 34 Trailhead (located two miles east of Becker County Road 29), out-andback: Hike as far as you want then return. You will cross through prairie fields and see wetlands.

► South from Highway 113 Trailhead in the White Earth State Forest, out-and-back: Hike through a white pine plantation then return.

► Highway 113 to CR-39 Trailhead, 4.3 miles: Hike through a mix of hardwoods and pine plantations and over some hilly terrain. Part of this hike is along the Laurentian (Continental) Divide.

Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge

The North Country Trail also runs through the Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge, a quiet and pristine place for outdoor play. Access the trail from 400th Avenue, Blackbird Wildlife Drive or the Pine Lake Parking Area on County Highway 29.

In addition to the North Country Trail, Tamarac offers several miles of other hiking trails. Park at the Discovery Center and take the 1/4-mile Discovery Loop, or the 1.5mile Bear Paw Trail, which goes to historic cabins.

On the Old Indian Hiking Trail, follow in the footsteps of the Ojibwe people and experience the beauty of the maple basswood forest. This 2.4-mile loop trail is accessed from County Highway 29.

For more information, visit fws.gov/refuge/Tamarac/.

Dunton Locks County Park

This 53-acre park just south of Detroit Lakes has nearly 4 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails on the hills along the shores between Lake Sallie and Muskrat Lake. The northern trails wind through hardwood forested hills that were once a gathering spot for Sioux Indians, and remnants of Indian burial mounds are still present throughout the park. The southern trails also wind through rolling, wooded terrain.

Greater Sucker Creek

This gem boasts 117 acres of natural woods and prairie with accessible paved paths, unimproved trails, marshwalks, a designated trout stream, amphitheater and interpretive signs. The park is located on the southeast side of Detroit Lakes, just off U.S. Highway 10.

Mountain View Recreation Area

The 3 miles of natural surface trails at Becker County’s Mountain View Recreation Area wind their way through a mature, mixed hardwood forest. The trails are wide and offer several different loop options. The trails are used for horseback riding as well as hiking in the summer, and cross-country skiing in the winter. Separate single-track mountain bike/snowshoe trails are also being

developed. Parking for 10-15 vehicles is located along Tower Road in Detroit Lakes.

Black’s Grove Park

Surrounded by majestic oak trees and pines, this 50-year-old park provides a place for relaxation. Trails are suitable for hiking in the summer, and children will enjoy playing in a log shelter or watching for wildlife. A long and winding ski trail can be used for hiking, mountain biking or cross-country skiing in winter.

Hiking Biking andMore!

AROUND DETROIT LAKES

► The Fish Hatchery Recreation Trail is a 1.1-mile paved trail that follows the Pelican River from the western shores of Detroit Lake to Lake Sallie at Dunton Locks County Park. More information is available by calling Becker County Parks and Recreation at 218-846-2612 or visiting the county parks and recreation website.

► The Lakeside Recreation Trail offers a magnificent view of Big Detroit Lake. The paved 1.25-mile trail runs from North Shore Drive to East Shore Drive along the frontage road and U.S. Highway 10. More information is available by calling Detroit Lakes Public Works at 218-847-4637 or visiting the City of Detroit Lakes website.

► The Richwood Road Recreation Trail parallels County Highway 21 to North Tower Road. This 1-mile paved trail provides walkers and bikers in the northern areas of Detroit Lakes quick access to the heart of the city. For more information, call the Becker County Highway Department at 218-847-4463 or visit the county website.

► The Heartland State Trail. Plans are well underway to continue to expand the multi-use Heartland State Trail through Becker County. It connects with the Paul Bunyan State Trail system and other regional train systems.

AROUND PERHAM

► Arvig Trail and Park, on County Road 51 on the north side of Perham, offers a paved bike and walking path as well as softball and soccer fields, volleyball sand courts, tennis courts, Little League fields and a frisbee golf court. The trail connects to the Cal Miller Bike Trail, which heads south and loops through town.

► Pioneer Grounds, east of Arvig Park on County Road 8, features a 3-mile bike and walking loop that circles the park. Vehicles may park on the grass field off 3rd Avenue NW and 6th Street NW. The grounds are the site of Perham’s annual Pioneer Festival and Black Powder Rendezvous events.

► The Wildflower Trail is for both bikers and nature walkers. It runs along the front side of Perham Health and connects to the downtown area, as well as to the Wellness Trail, a ¾-mile loop through the hospital’s 37-acre grounds.

A Perham trail map is available at progressiveperham.com.

AROUND WADENA

► Crow Wing River State Water Trail: Canoe, kayak or simply put your feet up and tube down the river. Crow Wing River has a multitude of activities for any outdoors enthusiast. The water trail boasts undeveloped shoreline with plenty of camping spots to rest your head. The river winds through the county from north to south, beginning at the Blueberry Bridge northeast of Menahga and exiting at the very southeasterly corner just west of Staples, according to the Wadena County Parks website.

► Leaf River Recreational Trail: With a trailhead in Sunnybrook Park, bikers head 4 miles northeast to Whitetail Run Golf Course, head west on County Road 20 for 2.25 miles before turning south and traveling 3 miles back to Wadena. Another 1.25 miles east gets you back to the trailhead for a total loop of about 10.5 miles.

► Cottingham Park Campground: About 13 miles

north of Staples on County Road 30, this campground area offers a ton of outdoor activities. A 2.5-mile trail from Cottingham Park to Bullard’s Bluff Park allows for hiking, ATV riding and horseback riding.

ATVing

There are miles of ATV and OHV trails around Becker County, with the northeastern part of the county being a particular hotspot. The Forest Riders Trail in the Smoky Hills and Two Inlets State Forest is a 100-mile scenic ride through Becker and Hubbard counties, on terrain ranging from rolling and hilly to level and smooth. Some are joint trails that are used for snowmobiling in the winter.

A local ATV club, Woods-n-Wheels, helps maintain the trails, organizes group rides and overnight trips, and even offers personal guided rides for interested visitors. Contact the club by visiting the Woods and Wheels ATV Club Facebook page or woodsandwheelsatvclub. com. Trail maps are also available at the Detroit Lakes Regional Chamber of Commerce office.

DL Chamber events this summer:

• Women’s EDGE Speaker Series

• 4th of July Fireworks

• Cruise DL Nights

• Art in the Park

• Crazy Daze

There is so much to do at the Lakes! Check out our website for more information.

Park it:

Local places to picnic and play

Detroit Lakes City Park, located at one end of the city’s mile-long beach on Detroit Lake, features a large playground for kids (plus another right across the street, near Washington Ballpark), a historic pavilion, multiple shelters and picnic areas, a bandshell, paved walkways, a disc golf course, tennis courts across the street, and more. Located not far from the downtown area, and within easy walking distance to an array of lakeside restaurants like Hub 41 and Zorbaz, this park is the premier place for outdoor events like concerts and festivals.

Detroit Lakes is also home to Peoples Park, located behind Zorbaz and home to the city’s new Pickleball Courts, as well as city parks at Long Lake and along the South Shore. There’s also a hard-to-miss Veterans Memorial Park right downtown on Highway 10, as well as a memorial park for Civil War Veterans, G.A.R. Park, at 317 Washington Ave. For more information about Detroit Lakes city parks, visit cityofdetroitlakes.com.

Outside of the city, Dunton Locks is a good place for a picnic, with multiple shelters and gathering spots, paved pathways for walking and biking, footbridges, fishing and more.

In Perham, Paul Miller Park, located north of town on Little Pine Lake, has picnic areas, a playground, paved pathways, water access and open spaces for play. There’s also the residential County Pines Park, on Pine Needle Drive in Perham, and Arvig Park, just north of town; these also feature play areas and more. Krauss Park, on the Southwest side of Perham, is a large grassy

block that contains playground equipment, a picnic area and flower gardens.

The state park nearest to both Detroit Lakes and Perham is Maplewood State Park. About a 30 minute drive away near Pelican Rapids, Maplewood features all the amenities of a state park, including recreation trails and paved paths, a beach area, multiple water accesses for boating, canoeing and kayaking, shelters and picnic areas, camping and occasional events. For more information, visit the DNR website at tinyurl.com/MaplewoodState-Park.

Wadena boasts a total of more than 200 acres of playgrounds and parks. All parks and playgrounds close at 10 p.m.

Sunnybrook Park, just east of Wadena with access from U.S. Highway 10, is the largest park in the city, with 78 acres of grass, water, pines and oak trees. A large open play area, shelter, restrooms and plenty of room to picnic are all offered at Tapley Park. The park is located on Lincoln Avenue Southwest and encompasses about 18 acres.

The Southwest Playground on Fourth Street provides numerous activities for children, including a playground, courts for basketball, tennis and volleyball, soccer and baseball fields, and skating in the winter. At the center of the city is Burlington Northern Park, a place where people of all ages gather during the summertime. Also visit Green Island, this private property is open to all. Enjoy the nature park featuring walking trails, artscapes, picnic areas, gardens and even a meditation hut.

DOG PARKS

► Wardale Dog Park, in Perham, is located right off Highway 8 just north of town, near Arvig Park and Lakeside Golf Course.

► In Detroit Lakes, the city dog park is located in the industrial section of town, across the street from Lakeshirts, at 1023 10th Avenue SE. The park is open from sunrise to sunset, seven days a week, and has separate areas for small and large dogs.

► Bark Park, in Wadena, is located in Sunnybrook Park.

SKATE PARKS

► The Detroit Lakes Skate Park, at People’s Park on Phinney Avenue, is open from 6 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. every day.

► Kowabunga Skate and Bike Park in Perham is just south of the softball fields along County Highway 51.

GOLFING

Whether you’re looking for an easy evening game among friends, a competitive match, nine holes or 18, there’s something for every golfer in and around the Detroit Lakes and Perham areas. Five minutes from Detroit Lakes are the Detroit Country Club, Lakeview Golf Course, Forest Hills Golf Course, Maple Hills Golf Course and River Hills Golf Course. Of note is the week-long Pine to Palm Amateur Golf Tournament, one of Minnesota’s so-called “resort circuit” tourneys. Pine to Palm has been held at Detroit Country Club every August since 1932.

In Perham, Perham Lakeside Golf Club, offers three different courses with 27 holes of championship golf. A restaurant and event center are on site, at 320 17th Street NW.

Whitetail Run Golf Course in Wadena is an 18-hole golf course located 4 miles north of Wadena on U.S. Highway 71. Facilities include dining and a pro shop.

2024SUMMER

DISC GOLF

In Detroit Lakes, there’s a newer 18-hole course at Detroit Lakes City Park, a nine-hole course at Long Lake Park, and a homemade 9-hole course at Meadow Lake Campsite, south of town.

In Frazee, there’s a 9-hole course at Lion’s Park, just behind the World’s Largest Turkey sculpture.

In Perham, disc golf is available at the south end of Arvig Park, near the tennis courts. Parking is available on the grass field off 3rd Avenue NW and 6th Street NW. Arvig Park is located on County Road 51 on the north side of Perham.

In Wadena, a nine-hole disc golf course is located in Sunnybrook Campground. The campground is located at 210 Harry Rich Drive.

Visit the Professional Disc Golf Association’s website, pdga.com, for more information.

SHOP: Mon-Sat 9am-7pm • Sun 10am-5pm

Our store exists to support the youth programming at the Boys & Girls Club of Detroit Lakes!

DONATION DOOR HOURS: May 1st - September 30th

Sunday: 10:00am-5:00pm Monday: 9:00am-5:30pm

Tuesday: CLOSED

Wednesday: CLOSED

Sunday,Aug186pm

We sell donated items from our generous donors and buy and resell truckloads of liquidation items from major-brand retailers.

Thursday: 9:00am-5:30pm

Friday: 9:00am-5:30pm

Saturday: 9:00am-5:30pm

October 1st - April 30th

Sunday: 10:00am-5:00pm

Monday: 9:00am-5:30pm

Tuesday: 9:00am-5:30pm

Wednesday: CLOSED

Thursday: 9:00am-5:30pm

Friday: 9:00am-5:30pm Saturday: 9:00am-5:30pm

On Water

Swimming, fishing, boating

The most popular public place to take a dip in the area is Detroit Lakes’ mile-long, sandy City Beach. It’s open to everyone, but dogs and alcohol are not allowed. The space is quick to fill with people in the summers, usually being the busiest during the hottest hours of the day. Tanning and swimming are always popular here, and boat rentals are available right on the beach, at J&K Marina, or a few miles east at the Holiday Inn Marina. A number of restaurants are just across the street from the beach, and food trucks and the Ice Cream Truck regularly visit the neighboring City Park.

Other public beaches in the area can be found at

Middle Cormorant Lake, Eagle Lake, Town Lake, Wolf Lake and in Osage, Frazee, Vergas and Ottertail. Perham has a swimming beach at Paul Miller Park, north of town. Visit the Becker County Parks and Recreation website, or Otter Tail County website, for more information on these.

In addition, fishing is popular year-round here, whether it be from piers, boats, shorelines or fish houses. There are dozens of public water accesses across both Becker and Otter Tail counties; visit the county websites for maps and more information.

Holiday Inn Marina

1155 Hwy. 10 E by the Holiday Inn, Detroit Lakes 218-847-2121

J&K Marina

121 W Lake Dr., Detroit Lakes 218-847-7291

www.jkmarine.com/rentals

Diving

Tri-State Diving of Detroit Lakes, owned by Gary Thompson, offers scuba diving equipment, dive trips, certification classes and more. Classes are two weeks long in the summer, plus exams. Dive trips are open to divers who are already certified.

Tri-State Diving

28300 Little Floyd Lake Road, Detroit Lakes 218-847-4868

tri-statediving.com or Facebook @Tri-State-Diving

Tubing down the Otter Tail River

Charlie’s Tubing and K&K Tubing, located right next to each other on Highway 34 in Detroit Lakes, both offer rides down the Otter Tail River. Tubes – for riders, dogs and coolers – as well as parking and rides to the river entrance, are provided by both businesses. Rides down the river are about 2 hours long straight through, but

many tubers like to stop at the popular sandbar along the way. Water shoes are recommended for first-time tubers. You’ll also need to know how many drinks you have, and they need to be in aluminum cans. If you want to beat the crowds, go early or later in the afternoon, as prime time tends to be around 2 p.m.

SUNDAY,

THURSDAY,

WATER CARNIVAL

Fun Things to Do This Summer

BY DETROIT LAKES TRIBUNE, PERHAM FOCUS AND WADENA PIONEER JOURNAL STAFF

1. WE Fest: WE Fest returns for its 41st year at Soo Pass Ranch August 1-3. Headlining this year are Jelly Roll on Thursday, August 1; Parker McCollum on Friday, August 2; and Eric Church on Saturday, August 3. Wednesday, July 31, is the kick-off party with Corey Kent and Joe Stamm Band.

2. ENJOY A COUNTY FAIR

The rides, the games, the entertainment, the animals, the displays – and let’s not forget about the food! What’s not to love about a good county fair? Detroit Lakes, Perham and Wadena are each home to one, with the Becker County Fair held at the Detroit Lakes Fairgrounds (at the junction of Rossman Avenue and West Lake Drive), the East Otter Tail County Fair held at the fairgrounds in Perham (at the end of 4th Street SE.) and the Wadena County Fair at the fairgrounds in Wadena (400 Ash Ave. NW.). The Becker County Fair is Aug.7-10, the East Otter Tail County Fair is July 25-28 and the Wadena County Fair is June 20-23.

3. WHO IS GOING TO BE THE NEXT MISS WADENA?

Another year, another battle for the crown! Once again, a group of Wadena-Deer Creek High School juniors and seniors will battle it out for the title of Miss Wadena. This year’s pageant takes place on June 23 at 7 p.m. at the Wadena Memorial Auditorium. This year’s theme is “Be Someone’s Hero.”

4. LET THEM THINK ABOUT IT

Is freedom of speech worth the cost? That’s the question four of the country’s greatest armchair philosophers will tackle at the 31st Annual Great American Think-Off. The event will be hosted at the New York Mills Public School Auditorium on June 8 at 7 p.m. Four contestants will debate and defend their position in front of a live audience. The audience will cast their vote and the winner will be deemed “America’s Greatest Thinker of 2024.” The kick-off event is June 7 at the New York Mills Regional Cultural Center, where the public will have the opportunity to meet this year’s contestants from 6-8 p.m.

5. PIONEERS IN PERHAM

Food, fun and history: Perham’s Pioneer Fest is Aug. 17-18, held at Perham’s Pioneer Village. Stop by to admire vintage farming equipment, tractor pulls and more. There will be arts and crafts, along with vendors and plenty of demonstrations that are fun for the whole family.

6. WADENA JUNE JUBILEE RETURNS

Wadena’s June Jubilee is back for another exciting year on Friday, June 7, and Saturday, June 8 in downtown. This year’s jubilee will feature an Aldrich Avenue street dance on Friday night and an outdoor concert in BN Park on Saturday night. Along with a vendor show, youth fishing tournament, kiddie carnival, car show, bean bag tournament, food trucks, beer garden, kiddie parade, Saturday’s grand parade and so much more!

7. NORTHWEST WATER CARNIVAL IS BUCKETS OF FUN

The 88th Northwest Water Carnival will be jam-packed with summer fun during its 10-day run on July 12-21 in Detroit Lakes. More than 65 events are on the schedule, including a mixture of new and old — as well as a few events that are returning from hiatus. From water fights to chili cook-offs to demolition derbies, there’s something for everyone.

8.

ROLL INTO ROLLAG FOR SOME OLD-FASHIONED FUN

Every year over Labor Day weekend, the tiny town of Rollag, 30 minutes west of Detroit Lakes, hosts a sprawling gathering of thousands of people, who convene in this out-of-the-way place for the annual Western Minnesota Steam Threshers Reunion. The event is huge, and hugely fun, with hundreds of classic steam engine demonstrations and exhibits spread over 210 rolling acres, along with play areas for kids, train rides around the grounds, and plenty of food booths. Visit rollag.com for more info.

9.

ONE SHELL OF A GOOD TIME

Perham’s Turtle Fest is turning 40 this year! Per ham is going to be packed with fun June 12-16, including everyone’s favorite event: turtle races. Other fun Turtle Fest events include a parade, street fair, parking lot party, medallion hunt and more. For more information on this year’s Turtle Fest, visit www.perham.com/turtlefest.

10. THAT LAST BIT OF HEAT

Just as the summer heat begins winding down, Minnesota Salsa Fest brings temperatures back up! Hosted at Burlington Northern Park in Wadena on Saturday, Sept. 21, attendees of all ages will enjoy a mix of original and traditional music from regional artists in a festival atmosphere intermixed with vendors selling their wares and produce. The event features a salsa contest where you can vote for your favorite salsa, classes, demonstrations, youth craft activities from Art Bar 39, food stands, and Drastic Measures Brewing beer garden.

When: Where:

FindusSaturdays MaythroughOctober LakesAreaFarmersMarket 10amto1pm PeoplesPark DetroitLakes

HandCraftedattheLakes

Lakes Area Farmers Market

OPENING SATURDAY • MAY 18 • 10-1 and goes thru October OPENING TUESDAY • JUNE 4TH • 10-1 and goes thru September 3

JULY 5TH....................................FRONT FENDERS

JULY

JULY

JULY

AUG

AUG

SEPT 1st .............................HARDWOOD GROOVE

SEPT 14TH ..................FAT CATS (OCTBER FEST)

Small towns, big events

FANCY A TRIP OUT OF TOWN FOR THE DAY? CHECK OUT THESE FUN FESTIVITIES!

Sometimes big fun comes in really small packages. We think these events, all in towns of fewer than 1,400 people and all within easy driving distance of Detroit Lakes, Perham and Wadena are well worth your time.

Audubon Summer Fest: Held during the last weekend in June, Summer Fest is a family-friendly event that features live entertainment, food, arts and more. For more information, visit https://www.facebook. com/AudubonSummerFest/.

Bluffton Hometown Days: Visit Bluffton on Friday, August 16, and Saturday, August 17, for food trucks, vendors, dancing and a parade. Check out https://www.facebook. com/BlufftonHometownDays/ for more information.

for the museum’s annual Finnish festival. The event features historical demonstrations and reenactments, Finnish connections, an open mic, museum tours/information, a Finnish gift shop, a raffle, auction, area arts/crafts, and local collaborations.

Deer Trail Days, Deer Creek: Come out to Deer Creek on Friday, July 26, and Saturday, July 27, for a parade, music, food, a local baseball, kids’ activities and much, much more. More information is available at: www.facebook.com/p/Deer-Trail-Days-Deer-CreekMN-100078752476406/.

Dent Corn Daze: A parade, classic car show and more on Saturday, August 17.

Frazee Turkey Days: Celebrating its 70th year in 2024, come to Frazee for three fun-filled days that include a community dance, a demo derby, games, street vendors and more, July 26-28. Want to learn more? Visit www. facebook.com/p/Frazee-Turkey-Days-100057176242888/.

Finn Creek Festival: Visit the Finn Creek Open Air Museum on Saturday, August 17, and Sunday, August 18,

Lund Mania, New York Mills: Come celebrate 76 years of Lund Boats being built in New York Mills. Lund Mania begins Thursday, July 11, with a 6 p.m. anglers rules meeting in the New York Mills City Hall Ballroom. The bulk of the festivities begin Friday, July 12, with the Fish House Festival on Main Avenue from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Other Friday events include a fish fry, parade, street dance and more. Festivities conclude on Saturday, July 13, with a three-on-three basketball tournament and color run. For more information, visit: ottertaillakescountry. com/event/lund-mania-fishing-tournament/2024-07-11/.

Menahga Mid Summer Music Fest: Enjoy a weekend of nonstop music July 25-27. Headlining acts include Jackyl on Thursday, July 25; Night Ranger on Friday, July 26; and Skillet on Saturday, July 27. Pre-party is Wednesday, July 24.

Ottertail OtterFest: A pancake feed, parade and games, August 10 in Ottertail.

Vergas Looney Days: This year’s theme is: “Birds of a Feather Get Looney Together.” The event, which runs August 8-11 in Vergas, will feature a street fair, wiener dog races, food and more. Visit https://www.cityofvergas. com/events/vergas-looney-daze#gsc.tab=0 for more information.