Calendar of Events

Cabaret

Welcome to Northern Light Opera Company’s production of Kander & Ebb's classic musical, Cabaret. Performances will be at 7:30 p.m. August 1, 5, 6 and 7 and at 3 p.m. August 2 and 8. Whether you are joining us in special cafe tables or in general admission seating, you will be drawn into the decadent world of the Weimar Cabaret in this immersive in-the-round production, which features music, dancing and a live full orchestra. Be dazzled by Sally Bowles and the Kit Kat Club, and witness the freewheeling world of 1930s Berlin change as darker forces rise to power. Recommended for ages 12 and up. Tickets are on sale now. Go to www.northernlightopera.org.

Paper Making Workshop

C.R.E.A.T.E. will sponsor a Paper Making Workshop with Jill Odegaard from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. August 4 at the bus garage (on 4th Street West). All are invited to participate and be creative.

Cabaret

Welcome to Northern Light Opera Company’s production of Kander & Ebb's classic musical, Cabaret. Performances will be at 7:30 p.m. August 5, 6 and 7 and at 3 p.m. August 8. Whether you are joining us in special cafe tables or in general admission seating, you will be drawn into the decadent world of the Weimar Cabaret in this immersive in-the-round production, which features music, dancing and a live full orchestra. Be dazzled by Sally Bowles and the Kit Kat Club, and witness the freewheeling world of 1930s Berlin change as darker forces rise to power. Recommended for ages 12 and up. Tickets are on sale now. Go to www.northernlightopera.org.

Hannah Lewis

Soprano Hannah Lewis will perform for the Noon Hour Concert from 12:15 to 12:45 p.m. Thursday, August 6 at Calvary Lutheran Church. She will sing classical art songs, an aria and some musical theater numbers. A free will offering.

Color Woodcut with Stencils Printing Workshop

Guest artist Heidi Allen will lead a Color Woodcut with Stencils Printing Workshop for ages 14-adults from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursdays, August 6, 13 and 20 at Nemeth Art Center small gallery. All materials will be provided. Fee is $45 for all three sessions. Register with Community Education by calling 218-237-6600 or at www.parkrapidscomed.com.

Still Life Drawing Workshop

Local artist Liz Quaday will lead a Color Woodcut with Stencils Printing Workshop for ages 14-adults from 1 to 3 p.m. Thursdays, August 6, 13, 20 and 27 in the Nemeth Art Center Gallery. All materials will be provided. Fee is $450 for all four sessions. Register with Community Education by calling 218-237-6600 or at www.parkrapidscomed.com.

Joyann Parker Band

Hear Joyann Parker, an American roots and soul singer-songwriter, at the 2nd Street Stage Concert Thursday, August 6. The concert will start after Water Wars, approximately 7 p.m. Parker's powerhouse vocals and emotionally rich, genre-blending sound have made her one of the most compelling independent artists in today’s modern roots landscape. Arrive at 5 for the social hour and remember to bring your own chair.

2nd Saturday STEM

The Park Rapids Area Library STEM program at 11 a.m. Saturday, August 8 will be a STEM Challenge. How many STEM activities can you complete? This event is open to all ages, but participants 8 years old and younger need to be accompanied by an older participant or adult. The activity will be held in the large meeting room downstairs.

Wyatt Parthun

Tenor Soloist Wyatt Parthun will perform for the Noon Hour Concert from 12:15 to 12:45 p.m. Thursday, August 13 at Calvary Lutheran Church. Parthun grew up in Lake George and has participated in music since he was seven-years-old. He started studying music seriously at 14, taking piano and voice lessons. Since that time, he participated in High School Choir and Theater and graduated from Bemidji State University in May 2026 with a degree in Piano and Voice. A free will offering will be accepted.

Stoneware Spoon Rest

Make a stoneware spoon rest in a class from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, August 13. This 8-inch handled spoon rest keeps the mess off the stove and counter. All the pottery, glazes and general supplies are included in the fee. After the class, the projects return with instructor Karen Moyer, Leaf River Pottery, to be fired. Seven to 10 days later the projects, individually bagged, are returned to Community Ed. You will be notified by email when they have arrived and you can pick them up. Children are welcome to attend with an adult. Fee is $34. Register with Community Education by calling 218-237-6600 or at www.parkrapidscomed.com.

Saltydog

Saltydog is a funk jam improvisational exploration that takes the audience and band on a journey through their playfully crafted, folk driven tunes. The band spawned on the banks of Duluth’s ice covered stones by brothers Jacob and Owen Mahon. Hear them at the 2nd Street Stage Concert from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, August 13. Arrive at 5 for the social hour and remember to bring your own chair.

DIY Teddy Bear Workshop

Stuff and color your own teddy bear during a workshop at the Park Rapids Area Library from 3 to 4:30 p.m. Wednesday, August 19. This was one of most popular events last summer! Space is limited so sign up early.

Teach. Do. exhibit

The Gallery @ the Armory will host an exhibit titled "Teach. Do" from August 19 through September 26. This exhibit celebrates eight current and retired art teachers whose creativity, mentorship, and dedication have shaped the youth and culture of our region. Through their own artistic practice, they embody the spirit of doing what they teach. We honor their lasting impact as teachers and artists. Teach. Do. Artists are Carol Albright, Cheryl Bannes, Linda Beilke, Tiffany Besonen, Chris Boedigheimer, Dawn Rossbach, Amber Schroeder and Bonnie Tweeton.

Sarah Hamrin

Performing for the Noon Hour Concert from 12:15 to 12:45 p.m. Thursday, August 20 at Calvary Lutheran Church will be Sarah Hamrin on Viola. She grew up in the Bemidji area and started musical study at the age of four. She earned a BM from Baylor University in 2020, where she studied with faculty on violin, viola and piano. Sarah has performed in a variety of ensembles and currently plays with the Bemidji Symphony and Bismarck-Mandan Symphony Orchestras. She is also a pianist at Hubbard United Methodist Church. A free will offering will be accepted.

Forge North

Forge North will return to 2nd Street Stage from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, August 20. Forge North is a five-piece Americana folk-rock band based in Longville. Formed in 2022, the group blends layered vocal harmonies, storytelling songwriting, and a rich mix of acoustic and electric instrumentation to create a sound rooted in the landscapes and culture of Northern Minnesota. Arrive at 4:30 for the social hour and remember to bring your own chair.

Deane Park Adventures

Author Lisa Cassman will read her book, “Our Butterfly Walk,” as part of the Park Rapids Area Library’s Deane Park Adventures from 10:30 a.m. to noon Friday, August 21. Other activities will include a Bee a Pollinator game and scavenger hunts. Deane Park is located at 19382 Eagle Pointe Trail.

An Acoustic Tribute to Johnny Cash

Back by popular demand enjoy this personalized tribute to one of America's greatest country legends at 2 p.m. Saturday, August 22. Get cozy in the intimate Long Lake Theater listening to the stories and songs of Johnny Cash delivered by the impeccable Mitchell Hall and his delightfully talented lead guitarist, Mike Ness. VIP guests will be invited in a half hour early to enjoy some close-up conversation and a few select songs. Tickets available at https://www.longlaketheater.com/.

Matthew Lorenz

The Noon Hour Concert from 12:15 to 12:45 p.m. Thursday, August 27, at Calvary Lutheran Church will feature pianist Matthew Lorenz, a Chicago-based musician who is gaining prominence in the Midwest. Lorenz began his piano studies at age nine in Fargo and went on to earn a Master’s degree at the Chicago College of Performing Arts. He is known for his "powerful" playing style, which balances a broad musical perspective with heartfelt sensitivity and attention to detail. His repertoire spans composers ranging from Bach and Chopin to Rachmaninoff and Liszt. He will play a program of Chopin this summer which will include two Ballades, two Nocturnes and a Grande Valse Brilliant. The concerts are free of charge. A free will offering will be accepted.

End of Season Show

An End of Workshop Season Show is planned from 2 to 4 p.m. Friday, August 28 at Nemeth Art Center. Children, youth and adult works will be featured.

Saturday Morning Cartoons

Park Theater is hosting Saturday Morning Cartoons. At 10 a.m. August 29, the cartoon will be "Coyote Vs. ACME."

The Sounds of Color

Through tap dance and the syncopation of the rhythms, colors come to life in a new dimension. Soleararte Tap is coming to Long Lake Theater at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, August 29 and 2 p.m. Sunday, August 30. Tickets available at https://www.longlaketheater.com/.

Remembering David R. Konshok

David W. Konshok will remember David R. Konshok, Park Rapids businessman and aviation hero, for the Hubbard County Historical Society program from 1 to 3 p.m. Monday, August 31 at the Northwoods Bank Community Room. These programs are free and the public is invited to attend.

Teach. Do. exhibit

The Gallery @ the Armory is hosting an exhibit titled "Teach. Do" through September 26. This exhibit celebrates eight current and retired art teachers whose creativity, mentorship, and dedication have shaped the youth and culture of our region. Through their own artistic practice, they embody the spirit of doing what they teach. We honor their lasting impact as teachers and artists. Teach. Do. Artists are Carol Albright, Cheryl Bannes, Linda Beilke, Tiffany Besonen, Chris Boedigheimer, Dawn Rossbach, Amber Schroeder and Bonnie Tweeton.

Exhibit: The Crystal Chandeliers Light Up the Paintings on Your Walls

Nemeth Art Center is presenting "The Crystal Chandeliers Light Up the Paintings on Your Walls," through September 27. Curated by Aaron Spangler the exhibit features Matt Bollinger, Samantha Joy Groff, Frank Spidale, Jewelya Coffee and Pete Driessen. For images and information about these fascinating artists, go to https://www.nemethartcenter.org/upcoming.

Writing Historical Fiction

Obie Holmen will explore a writer’s challenge of blending factual context, such as the Vietnam War, with fictional characters for the first Headwaters Center for Lifelong Learning program of the fall season September 8. His talk will also address how historical fiction can expose themes of moral ambiguity and political choices. All HCLL programs are from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Tuesdays at the Park Rapids American Legion. The space is handicap accessible There is no admission charge.

2nd Saturday STEM

The Park Rapids Area Library STEM program continues at 11 a.m. Saturday, September 12. This event is open to all ages, but participants 8 years old and younger need to be accompanied by an older participant or adult. The activity will be held in the large meeting room downstairs

Wooden Mosaics Workshop

Jamie Jokela will teach the timeless art of wooden mosaics in a Wooden Mosaics Workshop from 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, September 12 at the Studios @ the Armory. Fee is $40 including materials. Register at www.parkrapidsarmory.org or call 218-237-3722.

Dr. Delbert Dumas: Guilty or Not?

For the Headwaters Center for Lifelong Learning program September 15, Cecelia McKeig will present the intriguing case of Northern Minnesota's own Jekyll and Hyde character as she asks, “Despite the good doctor’s success, did he have another life entirely?” All HCLL programs are from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Tuesdays at the Park Rapids American Legion. The space is handicap accessible There is no admission charge.

Art Bites: Watercolor Postcards

This season of Art Bites lunch and art sessions will start at 11:30 a.m. Thursday, September 17 at the Gallery @ the Armory. Create watercolor postcards and enjoy lunch for $25. Register at www.parkrapidsarmory.org or call 218-237-3722.

Open Mic Night

The Open Mic Night season opener will be at 7 p.m. Thursday, September 17 at the Armory Arts & Events Center. Come to appreciate the talents of the community or take the stage. Admission is free. Call 218-237-3722 to sign up. Refreshments will be available.

Minnesota Libraries Read Together

Take a moment to participate by reading our book in the library. There will be fun activities to inspire you and a story time for the kiddos at 10:30 a.m. Friday, September 18.

Writers' Workshop and Book Release Party

The Jackpine Writers' Bloc will host an all genres writers' workshop, Finding the Language of Poetry for all Writers, from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, September 19 at Jack Pines Resort. Instructor will be Laura Hansen. A $55 fee includes lunch. Preregistration is required: email sharrick2@wcta.net. After lunch (at approximately 1 p.m.) the annual book release party for Talking Stick Volume 35 is free to all. The program will include readings, introduction of winners and an invitation to all who were published to read. After the readings, there will be time for conversation and dinner.

It Takes Two

Don't miss the opening concert of the Heartland Concert Association's 2026-27 season at 7 p.m. Monday, September 21 at the Park Rapids Area High School Auditorium. It Takes Two will feature Erinn Dearth and Dan Beckmann for an unforgettable musical journey celebrating the iconic duos that have shaped history. From legendary musicians like Johnny Cash and June Carter to iconic on-screen pairs like Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers, this dynamic performance features everything from classic hits and Broadway showstoppers to playful nods to pop culture favorites like Batman and Robin and The Odd Couple. The duo review blends the legacy of timeless hits with the wit and edge of classic sketch comedy. Season tickets are available at Beagle and Wolf Books. For more information about the Heartland Concert Association and sample video and program highlights at https://heartlandconcertassociation.org/.

Three Old Guys: Snowmobile Adventure #2

Rob Hallstrom recalls a 3,500-mile snowmobile ride from Minnesota to Newfoundland for the Headwaters Center for Lifelong Learning program September 22. All HCLL programs are from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Tuesdays at the Park Rapids American Legion. The space is handicap accessible There is no admission charge.

Moving Words: Writers Across Minnesota

The Park Rapids Area Library was chosen again to host Moving Words: Writers Across Minnesota. An evening of conversation and readings with four authors you'll want to meet is planned at 6 p.m. Thursday, September 24. The authors will be Okwudili Nebeolisa, David Hage, Josephine Marcotty and Jess Lourey.

Paradigm

Four local musicians will entertain for a StArt Leap concert from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, September 25 at the Armory Arts & Events Center. Doors will open at 5:30 p.m,. Tickets are only $10.

Art LEAP 2026

Art Leap, an “open studio event,” will offer 35 sites and feature more than 150 artists at studios and other locations in Hubbard, Becker and Cass counties the weekend of Sept. 26 and 27. Sites will be open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. At the 20th annual event, see what's new at studios and sites you’ve visited in the past and find new places. Some sites will host new guest artists and new works that will interest first time and returning visitors. Hop from studio to studio, learn process, appreciate skill and support the artists. Let fall's natural beauty inspire you as it does the artists. as you pass lakes and travel country roads.The Event Guide for Art Leap 2026 is available to view or download on our website. Paper event guides are available at the Park Rapids Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce Visitor Center, Park Rapids Area Library and other locations.

Heartland Arts sponsors Art Leap with funding provided, in part, by Itasca-Mantrap's Operation Round Up, the Lake Country Scenic Byway, Park Rapids Downtown Business Association and West Acres Foundation. This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota, through a grant from the Region 2 Arts Council, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund.

Download/View the 2026 Event Guide.

Project Constellation

Enjoy Scandinavian storytelling through song with Project: Constellation from 3 to 5 p.m. Saturday, September 26 at the Armory Arts & Events Center. The program is free as part of Art Leap weekend.

Remembering Ed De La Hunt

Butch De La Hunt will remember his father, Ed De La Hunt, for the Hubbard County Historical Society program from 1 to 3 p.m. Monday, September 28 at the Northwoods Bank Community Room. These programs are free and the public is invited to attend.

Part Two - Life in America

The Headwaters Center for Lifelong Learning program September 29 will feature Fay Dickey's return to tell her immigrant story as she transitions from opera singer to farmer to teacher. All HCLL programs are from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Tuesdays at the Park Rapids American Legion. The space is handicap accessible There is no admission charge.

Last day to vote for your favorite sculptue

The 2026-27 Park Rapids Sculpture Trail has 13 sculptures in Downtown Park Rapids and Red Bridge Park. Each year, a People's Choice Award is presented to the winner of a popular vote. Vote for fun! Ballots are available at the Park Rapids Area Library, Chamber Visitor Center, kiosk in Pioneer Park and City Hall and may be turned in at the Library or City Hall by the deadline Friday, October 2. Or vote on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/PRsculpturetrail.

The 1894 Hinckley Firestorm

Historian Amy Rea will describe the devastation and lasting effects of a fast-moving calamity in Minnesota's early years for the Headwaters Center for Lifelong Learning program October 6. All HCLL programs are from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Tuesdays at the Park Rapids American Legion. The space is handicap accessible There is no admission charge.

Friends of the Library Book Sale

The Friends of the Library Book Sale will be held from 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday, October 8 at the library. Free will donations are accepted. Cash or check only; no change available. Find fiction and nonfiction, children’s books, puzzles, CDs and more.

2nd Saturday STEM

The Park Rapids Area Library STEM program continues at 11 a.m. Saturday, September 10. This event is open to all ages, but participants 8 years old and younger need to be accompanied by an older participant or adult. The activity will be held in the large meeting room downstairs.

Gorgeous Gourds workshop

A Gorgeous Gourds workshop will be held from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, October 10 at the Studios @ the Armory. Kathy Sanders will teach you how to transform a simple dried gourd into a one-of-a-kind work of art inspired by nature. Participants will learn wood burning, coloring, embellishing and finishing techniques while creating your own gourd. The fee of $75 includes a cleaned gourd; dyes and paints; beads, feathers and embellishments; use of all tools and written instructions and safety information. The class is beginner friendly. Register at www.parkrapidsarmory.org or call 218-237-3722.

ArcoStrum

October 11 at the Area High School Auditorium. ArcoStrum is committed to pushing boundaries and redefining the 21st-century violin-guitar art form, presenting a new chamber music that is mixed-genre, multi-cultural and cross-era. Merging Eastern and Western cultures, ArcoStrum seamlessly combines the evocative sounds of traditional Chinese instruments like the erhu and dizi with the virtuosity of classical violin, guitar and electric guitar. TY Zhang and Strauss Shi met at The Juilliard School and soon discovered their chemistry not only as friends but in music-making. Their name, ArcoStrum, fuses "arco" a bowing technique for the violin and "strum" the motion used to create sound on a guitar. Season tickets are available at Beagle and Wolf Books. For more information about the Heartland Concert Association and sample video and program highlights at https://heartlandconcertassociation.org/.

Paul Bunyan’s Footprints

Learn how the mythical character left a stamp on many aspects of state history and lore from Johnathon Jaeger’s stories for the Headwaters Center for Lifelong Learning program October 13. All HCLL programs are from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Tuesdays at the Park Rapids American Legion. The space is handicap accessible There is no admission charge.