I thoroughly enjoy small town festivals that bring people out of their homes, into the communities they live in to promote entertainment, joy and great togetherness. 

It’s the perfect way to kick off the summer.

This weekend, of course, is Becker’s Freedom Days event. Actually it’s been a week long event full of food, fun and fellowship. The annual parade, the medallion contest and car show are juts a few of the things people clamor for during the eventful week. Many area businesses held free food events at their places of business. It’s a great time to gather and meet up with friends and family in social brotherhood.

In two weeks, Big Lake will be holding their annual Spud Fest event starting on Thurs., June 27. Their parade is well attended and kids of all ages enjoy the food areas, games and rides that envelope the grounds near the schools. Citizens in this part of Minnesota should be grateful for the efforts the organizers go through to get events like these off the ground each year.

Albertville recently held their festival where they had a car show, rides & games for kids, a couple beer gardens and athletes running the bases as part of a softball tournament. They also had a couple bands for musical entertainment and the grounds were just packed!

In a few weeks I’ll be heading to Remer for their annual summer gathering called Bigfoot Days. It never fails that in all the years we’ve been going there, the town just comes alive for those two days, welcoming people from all over the country who aim to be part of a town that boasts they are “the Home of Bigfoot.” 

At one end of town, there is a small general store that sells essentials — gas, sodas, candy bars, etc. — but it also has a huge room that has Bigfoot merchandise for just about any fanatic. The weekend event features storytelling, a 5K race, a flea market, a pancake breakfast, kids games, bean bag toss tournaments and live music at The Pub. Vendors with different types of wares line the streets with sales on candles, jewelry, mugs, pet toys, artwork and lots more. They also have Bigfoot Bingo, tons of food trucks, a BBQ contest and a Bigfoot Calling Contest — it’s sure to bring a smile to your face or your childs. I highly recommend this festival for the believers and even just the curious.

Bigfoot Days runs July 5 & 6 all along the main street in Remer.

As I stated before, a lot of work goes into the planning and execution of small town festivals and I encourage one and all to try and attend them to show support and to enjoy great fellowship with other Minnesotans. 

Get out and enjoy the summer people and be grateful for the great communities we live in!