10 Legendary ways to celebrate the harvest in North Dakota Posted on 9/4/2009
North Dakota Tourism/Gerald Blank
For more information, contact: Sara Otte Coleman, Director, Tourism Division North Dakota Department of Commerce 701-328-2525
Harvest may be celebrated differently throughout the state, but the fact remains that harvest is an event that is cherished by North Dakotans. September is a month of change, as we bring another summer to a close and edge our way toward fall. And we do so in a festive manner.
Contact North Dakota Tourism at NDtourism.com or call 800-435-5663 or 701-328-2525 for more information on these, and other, activities.
1. Harvest Fests and Festivals
Feeling festive? Join your friends and neighbors in cities big and small for some of the many festivals that mark the end of summer. From Norsk Høstfest in Minot to Apple Fest in Ellendale, and all points in between, there's a place for you to renew old friendships or make new friends. And grab some grub.
2. Pumpkins and Corn Galore
It's a(maze)ing what people can do with a field of corn or pumpkins. Papa's Pumpkin Patch in Bismarck, the Pumpkin Art Fest in Cavalier or the Giant Pumpkin Festival at Walhalla help people summon the Halloween spirit, while others look for adventure – and a way out - of corn mazes like that at the Amazing Corn Maize at Mandan.
3. Gamesmanship
Teams from North Dakota State and the University of North Dakota to the Beach Buccaneers celebrate the season in the traditional way – on the fields and courts. Athletics is one way that North Dakota kicks off another school year. And for those who like to compete themselves, the Bismarck Marathon and road races fit the bill and are held all around the state.
4. Harvest and Foliage by Horseback
From trail riding in the Killdeer Mountains to traversing the Pembina Gorge, unique riding venues can be found throughout the entire state. So saddle up and view spectacular scenery and flourishing fields while having fun with the whole family.
5. Family Nights
Many activities in September are geared toward the family, including West Fargo's National Night Out, the Bar-B-Que from the Heart in Dickinson and Motor Magic in Minot. Make more than just a pit stop at any of these events.
6. Harvesting – Then and Now
Folks remember the days before combines and swathers, when horses and steam power ruled the farm. Step back in time at steam threshing shows in Pekin and Fullerton or Sodbuster Days at Fort Ransom, then see how things have evolved at Big Iron in Fargo.
7. Living and Reliving History
Remember when you stood guard duty at Fort Buford and … Of course you don't. But you can find out what it was like during living history reenactments at Fort Union and Fort Buford this fall.
8. Harvesting the Arts
What is it about the change of seasons that makes a person feel artistic? Maybe it's the colors in nature that explode like they do on a canvas. Get creative on some of the art and wine walks, jazz arts big band, arts and crafts festivals and the Sheyenne Valley Arts and Crafts Festival.
9. Farmers' Markets
The harvest is winding down and that's good news for those who want the freshest farm-to-market produce. Check out a farmers' market for a variety of items, including homemade baked goods to handmade crafts and jewelry. Some provide live entertainment and food concessions. (Grand Forks, Valley City, Jamestown, Bismarck)
10. Highway Hoedown
The yard is mowed, the sun is out and you're looking for something to do. Get in the car or on the bike and take off. One of the best things about North Dakota's scenic byways and backways is that you're not far from one. Check out the foliage, smell the freshly cut hay and watch as another day slowly gives way to a full moon. Home can wait.
These are just a few of the ways to celebrate the harvest throughout North Dakota. For more information, go to NDtourism.com or phone 800-435-5663 or 701-328-2525.
North Dakota received two legendary designations in 2008 – most affordable (AAA) and friendliest (Cambridge University).
