FINLAND, MINN.
The 41st annual St. Urho's Festival takes place Friday through next Sunday in Finland, Minn. The free event celebrates the saint who, legend says, chased grasshoppers out of the vineyards of Finland. Most activities will be held Saturday at the community center. Highlights include a Miss Helmi contest on Friday; a pancake breakfast, a parade (noon), live music and more on Saturday and a large raffle on Sunday (friendsoffinland.org; 1-218-353-0300).
MADISON, WIS.
Learn everything you ever wanted to know about paddlesports and planning your next canoe or kayak trip at Canoecopia Friday through next Sunday at the Alliant Energy Center in Madison, Wis. Exhibitors and outfitters will be on hand to talk about trends, new gear, popular destinations and more. Hours: 4-9 p.m. Fri., 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sun. $15-$25, ages 17 and under free (canoecopia.com; 1-800-472-3353).
NEW LONDON, WIS.
Irish music, food and fun await visitors to the 32nd annual St. Patrick's Day Grand Parade and Irish Fest March 14-19 in New London, Wis., which is temporarily redubbed New Dublin for the occasion. Throughout the week festivalgoers can enjoy daily food specials, a Finnegan's wake and other entertainment. Eager spectators will line downtown streets at 1 p.m. Saturday to watch the state's largest St. Patrick's Day parade with more than 125 units including marching and bagpipe bands and floats. Also Saturday, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Irish Fest will feature live bands, ethnic food and fun held under the Big Top at the Festival Foods parking lot; $5 (newdublin.com; 1-920-809-2361).
Colleen A. Coles
