North Dakota Festivals Make For Great Family Outings

Festivals across the state are a staple during the summer. They often define communities and become an annual trek for family and friends. Summer 2005 is no exception. Check out this small sampling of the many festivals scheduled in North Dakota in June and July.

Lewis & Clark Days
Washburn (June 17-19)
This annual community event features activities for all ages, such as blacksmithing, fur traders rendezvous, parades, carnival and rodeo. Events are held throughout the community, and also include a vintage car show, live music and a fishing tournament. For more information call 877-462-8535; or online at www.fortmandan.com

German Festival Street Fair and Oktoberfest
New Leipzig (June 16-19)
This annual event brings history to life and gives visitors a taste of German heritage. The festival honors the traditions of those who migrated from Germany to South Russia to America.

Activities include an all-school reunion, plenty of food, a flea market, parade, live entertainment, kids’ games and a street dance. For more information call 701-584-2278; or online at www.newleipzig.com

Scandinavian Hjemkomst Festival
Fargo-Moorhead (June 24-26)
Celebrate the unique cultures of Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, Sweden and Scandinavian America. This annual event includes rhythmic folk dances and music from Scandinavian Folk to the new Nordic Sound, ethnic food, Scandinavian art, and a chance to explore the Bergquist Cabin, Viking Ship Hjemkomst and the Hopperstad Stave Church. For more information call 218-299-5451; or online at www.scandinavianhjemkomstfestival.org

White Cloud’s Birthday and Tatanka Festival
Jamestown (July 7-10)
Celebrate White Cloud’s ninth birthday at this citywide celebration. White Cloud is the albino buffalo that roams near the National Buffalo Museum and the large buffalo monument in Jamestown. The festival includes events such as a parade, kids’ carnival and car show. For more information call 800-807-1511; or online at www.buffalomuseum.com

Missouri River Bluegrass and Ol’ Time Music Festival
Cross Ranch State Park (July 8-10)
The 15th annual event features regional and national bluegrass and old-time music groups. There are also workshops, kids’ activities and jam sessions. The music starts on the evening of July 8 and continues throughout the weekend. For more information call 701-794-3731; or online at www.ndparks.com/parks/CRSP.htm

Ukrainian Festival
Dickinson (July 22-24)
This annual event is held at the Ukrainian Cultural Institute and at Dickinson State University. This is the 25th anniversary and the festival will review the highlights of 25 years in song, dance, theater, exhibits and meals. Performers include the Stepovi Dity Ukrainian Dancers. For more information call 701-483-1486; or online at www.dickinsoncvb.com

Taylor Horse Fest
Taylor (July 23)
This small western North Dakota town returns to the days of old when no motorized vehicles were available. Horses are the favored mode of transportation. Event highlights include a parade of horses and horse-drawn equipment, craft vendors, draft horse pull and driving competitions, demonstrations, entertainment and food booths.

The festival draws about 5,000 people each year. For more information call 701-974-4210; or online at www.taylorhorsefest.com

Deuce of August Icelandic Celebration
Mountain (July 29-31)
The 106th edition of the event is a celebration for the entire family featuring Icelandic heritage and culture, music, food and entertainment. The event is always scheduled on the weekend prior to the first Monday in August to coordinate with the Icelandic celebration in Gimli, Manitoba. For more information call 701-993-8268; or online at www.august2nd.com

Medora Musical
Medora (June 3-Sept. 4)
It’s the 40th anniversary of the Medora Musical and a renovated stage will provide a new look to this exciting production. The North Dakota Badlands provide a spectacular backdrop for the Burning Hills Amphitheatre, home to this world-famous musical that has drawn more than two million people over the years. It’s shown nightly from June 3 through Sept. 4.

The musical isn’t the only attraction in Medora, a historic town with ample places to shop and eat. There are plenty of outdoor activities to keep you busy, too, such as hiking, biking and horseback riding.

Among the town’s other attractions are Chateau de Mores, North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame, buggy rides, Doll House Museum, Medora children’s park and a pitchfork fondue. For more information, call 1-800-633-6721; or online at www.medora.com

There are many other festivals planned across the state. You can find information about them in the calendar of events at www.ndtourism.com Plan to get out and experience these events and activities. It’s an opportunity to have an adventure without venturing far from home. For more information on other events throughout the state, call 800-435-5663 or 701-328-2525.

May 31, 2005   Posted in: United States North