Music under the Big Tent

Last update: August 15, 2008 - 11:38 AM

Norwood Young America

Martin Mayer un seine Dorfmusikanten of Germany and several local bands will perform under the Big Tent during Stiftungsfest, Friday through next Sunday, at Wilkommen Park in Norwood Young America. There also will be music at the pavilion and beer garden, as well as a parade, children's events, arts and crafts, exhibits and fireworks. Admission is $3, or $7 for the three days (952-467-1812; www.stiftungsfest.org).

Shape of the potato

Barnesville, Minn.

Barnesville will welcome spud lovers to the annual Potato Days Festival Friday and Saturday with the always popular mashed potato wrestling, sculpting and eating contests. The festival includes music, a demolition derby, classic car show, street fair and sports tournaments (www.potatodays.com; 1-800-525-4901).

Wheels will roll

Lynd, Minn.

Cyclists will gear up for the Camden Classic Bike Festival Saturday at Camden State Park in Lynd, near Marshall in southwestern Minnesota. Participants have a choice of a competitive mountain bike race, a mountain bike sport ride, an introduction to mountain ride ($5), a children's ride in the park (free) or a 15-, 30- or 60-mile prairie road tour through the Redwood River Valley. Entry fees vary from $25 to $35. Registration is required. The event runs from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. (1-507-532-3633; www.camdenclassic.net).

On foot in the North Country

Park Rapids, Minn.

Take a day trip to scenic Itasca State Park Saturday during the North Country Trail Fest near Park Rapids, Minn. The free event is a chance to learn about the 4,600-mile national foot trail that extends from North Dakota through northern Minnesota and four other states and ends in New York. Guided trail hikes are at 1 and 3:30 p.m.; independent hikes are noon to 4 p.m. A social hour, barbecue dinner and concert by Bill Isles round out the day (1-218-266-2100).

COLLEEN A. COLES