Festivals and events

Writers' wisdom celebration

Last update: November 2, 2007 - 11:00 AM

Writers' wisdom celebration

Mankato, Minn.

Minnesota authors read from their books and offer tips for getting books published Saturday at the Deep Valley Book Festival in Mankato, Minn. More than 85 authors will be at the Alltel Center, and poet and novelist Freya Manfred will speak about "Writing and the Wisdom of Feeling" at 5 p.m. The event includes panel discussions and workshops, book signings and a silent auction from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Festival admission is free; workshops and evening program are $10 or $15 for two events in advance, or $15 at the door (1-507-345-9777; www.deepvalleybookfest.com).

Winter traditions on the lake

Grand Marais, Minn.

Attend the Winterer's Gathering and Arctic Film Festival Nov. 16 through 18 at the North House Folk School in Grand Marais, Minn., and get a head start on upcoming winter activities and a lesson in the history and traditions of winter life along the North Shore. The festival features speakers and classes on how to make traditional winter gear including snowshoes, birch skis, mukluks and moccasins, plus films, camping, a ski and gear swap and more (1-888-387-9762, 1-218-387-9762; www.northhouse.org).

Lights in the village

Taylors Falls, Minn.

A village lighting ceremony and Santa parade highlight the 23rd annual Lighting Festival at 6 p.m. Nov. 23 in Taylors Falls, Minn. Other festivities will be held throughout the day Friday and Nov. 24 and 25, including tours of the historic Folsom House Museum, horse-drawn wagon rides, an outdoor holiday dinner, reindeer, a holiday craft fair and music (1-651-465-6315).

COLLEEN A. COLES