Festivals & Holidays

Every year on the weekend after Labor Day since 1948, the people of Northfield have been honoring their brave predecessors for their efforts to thwart a bank robbery in 1876 by that notorious outlaw Jesse James. The James-Younger gang hailed from Missouri, a border state with divided loyalties over secession and slavery and rife with conflict.

It’s fair season in Minnesota. Fairs and festivals celebrating the past and the present abound all around the state. County fairs have been in full swing since the middle of June and come to a close in early September with Lac qui Parle having the last word. Minnesota hosts more than 90 county fairs showcasing every region’s food, fun, and farming world. If you hurry, you can still visit a few.

Mark your calendars, check your closets, it’s time for the Vintage Band Festival. This year’s brass extravaganza is a one-day event in downtown Northfield at Bridge Square on July 29 from 10 am-10 pm. Come dressed to the nines in period clothing, costumes, or long contra dance skirts. Kick up your heels or clap your hands as you enjoy the music presented by 11 bands from near and far.

July 4, 1776. To many people, that is just another day in the history of the world but to citizens of the United States of America, it represents much more. That day has come to represent independence, the birth of a new nation, OUR nation, and reason to celebrate. The Declaration of Independence states why those first thirteen colonies were so intent on gaining their freedom from the British Crown. So, was it written on that date by Thomas Jefferson?

If this is a Saturday in June, then it must be the Riverwalk Market Fair.  Welcome to Northfield's own open-air market!  Located in historic downtown Northfield, this event, now in its seventh year, fills Bridge Square and spills unto the Cannon River Walkway every Saturday now through October 22.  Vendors are ready to welcome you come rain or shine from 9 am to 1 pm.  Enjoy the scenery as you shop their booths for locally grown summ

"There is no such thing as bad weather, just poor clothing choices," or so the Scandinavian saying goes. So enjoy the outdoors wherever you live-- sledding, skiing, ice hockey, hiking, snow sculpting or building. If you are hankering for something bigger and colder and tastier and most likely more than a few hours' drive away, then you might want to check out one of the state's winter festivals such as the St.

Another year of fun and adventure awaits the hardy Minnesotan, whether native born or transplanted from afar. For all, there are lakes and parks to enjoy, ice fishing and festivals, tater tots and Vikings' games, and more. Check this blog for future notes on seasonal events and community happenings in 2017.

Handel reminds us of the prophet's words written long ago:

"For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given, and the government
Shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful,
Counselor, the Mighty God, the Everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace." Taken from Isaiah 9:6.

Merry Christmas and Blessings for the coming year!