Gondolier John Kerschbaum Brings a Touch of Venice to the St. Croix River

When John Kerschbaum paddles on the St. Croix River, the Grand Canal in Venice, Italy is never far from his mind. After all, that’s where the idea for his business, Gondola Romantica, all began.

Growing up in Afton, Kerschbaum always enjoyed camping and building forts along the river when he was young. On one of those summer nights, he noticed a falling star in the sky and made a wish for a canoe. Not long afterward, his wish came true. Read more about Gondolier John Kerschbaum Brings a Touch of Venice to the St. Croix River

Hudson Horse Farms Offer Riding Lessons and Emotional Connections

Riding isn’t about just saddling up and hitting the trails. It’s also about bonding with a horse and enjoying the thrill of the ride together. With this in mind, three horse-training facilities in the Hudson area offer traditional riding classes for people of all ages and abilities—as well as some unique programs catered specifically to children and people with special needs, for whom making a connection with a horse can be especially profound.

St. Croix Training Center Read more about Hudson Horse Farms Offer Riding Lessons and Emotional Connections

Secrets to Caribbean-style BBQ from Stillwater’s Shawn Smalley

Shawn Smalley is creating barbecue in a way that’s scarce anywhere in the country, let alone the St. Croix Valley. Since opening Smalley’s Caribbean Barbeque & Pirate Bar in May 2008, his method and remarkably flavorful food have gained national attention on a variety of Food Network shows. His hook? Smalley is a Jamaica-trained, Caribbean-style barbecue chef who has a lifelong penchant for pirates. Read more about Secrets to Caribbean-style BBQ from Stillwater’s Shawn Smalley

Our Backyard Gem

The St. Croix River just keeps getting more precious. It is big, beautiful and wild. It is home to all manner of waterfowl, songbirds, animals and fish. Less than an hour from a major metropolitan area, being on the river can make you feel as if you’re 1,000 miles from civilization. Read more about Our Backyard Gem

Summer Tuesdays

As dusk sets on any given Tuesday night this summer, crowds gather on Water Street in Stillwater for memorable evenings. With a market, a live musical performance and a feature-length movie, these events draw a wide range of people. “The great thing about Summer Tuesdays is it truly is a family event, but there’s also a large crowd of teens. Parents love that [there is a place for teens] where they can feel very comfortable and hang out in a safe place,” event coordinator Cassie McLemore says. Read more about Summer Tuesdays

A Fair to Remember: The Washington County Fair Celebrates Its 144th Year

Since 1871, the Washington County Fair has been a highlight of summer in the St. Croix Valley. Although its focus has shifted from agriculture as Washington County’s demographics have changed, the fair still draws more than 50,000 people each year. The 2015 events are too numerous to list, but highlights include Swinetime Pig Races, a Pick-up See-Saw Artist, carnival, horse shows, a vintage baseball game and talent shows. Read more about A Fair to Remember: The Washington County Fair Celebrates Its 144th Year

Concerts in the Park Returns for Another Musical Summer in Hudson

Every Thursday, Hudson’s Lakefront Park lights up with free concerts. With the St. Croix River as a backdrop, guests are treated to some of the best music around—including the Minnesota Orchestra, the St. Croix Valley Symphony and the River City Chorale. “We get a really good turnout,” says Deb Andrews of the city of Hudson. In fact, you might want to get there a little early: In past years, the Minnesota Orchestra has attracted more than 1,000 spectators. Read more about Concerts in the Park Returns for Another Musical Summer in Hudson

Square Lake Film and Music Festival Highlights Local Bands and Filmmakers

Every year, Minnesota produces an extraordinary quantity of high-quality art. Paul Creager, organizer of the Square Lake Film and Music Festival, believes it deserves to be seen. “Our mission is to support and bring attention to animation and short film that’s produced in Minnesota—and how we do that is by getting great bands,” Creager says. Hosted on the property where Creager grew up, the event takes place in a beautiful natural amphitheater and an intimate outdoor setting. Since parking is limited, most attendees bike to the event, so check online for groups heading out from your area. Read more about Square Lake Film and Music Festival Highlights Local Bands and Filmmakers

Pages

Subscribe to Front page feed