Calendar of Events

Nancy Friedemann-Sanchez and Charley Friedman Exhibits

Nemeth Art Center is exhibiting works by Charley Friedman and Nancy Friedemann-Sánchez. Charley Friedman is sculptor, photographer, performance, video artist whose main material, and medium, is humor. Exploring the ways that images and objects take on value - on a continuum from the sacred to the disposable - his work questions the ways in which society agrees to assign meaning and value to symbols. Nancy Friedemann-Sánchez is a Colombo-American interdisciplinary artist. She grew up in Colombia, the child of a Colombian and U.S. citizen, and migrated to the U.S. as an adult. Her art mines the curious and intense experience of having physically migrated, yet feeling a piece of herself rooted in Colombia.

Itasca's History Through Postcards

Connie Cox, lead interpretive naturalist at Itasca State Park, will open the fall series of Headwaters Center for Lifelong Learning programs Tuesday, September 2. She will provide stories of early Itasca State Park tourism through the direct words found on postcards from 1900 to the 1960s. HCLL programs are from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Tuesdays at the American Legion, 900 1st St. East. Sessions are free and handicapped accessible.

Works Progress Administration and Music

Emily Thabes, historian and music theorist, will give the Headwaters Center for Lifelong Learning program Tuesday, September 9. She will lead a captivating journey into the New Deal initiative that uplifted communities, supported artists and shaped America's musical identity in a time of hardship. HCLL programs are from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Tuesdays at the American Legion, 900 1st St. East. Sessions are free and handicapped accessible.

Picasseitte Bird Mosaic Class

Design and create an adorable bird mosaic on a wood base using picasseitte (broken dishes) in a Community Education class with DeeDee Narum from 5 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, September 10. The finished piece will be approximately 6 inches. Students will learn to use tile nippers to cut glass as well as learn basic grouting. Color ranges include blue, brown, green or red/pinks. If you have dishes you've always wanted to do something with, you are welcome to bring them along. Cost is $70. To register or for more information contact Park Rapids Community Education at 218-237-6600.

Pumpkin Mosaic Class

Design and create a mosaic pumpkin on a wood base in a Community Education class with DeeDee Narum from 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday, September 11. The finished piece will be approximately 6 inches. Students will learn to use tile nippers to cut glass as well as learn basic grouting and take home a finished pumpkin in fall colors. Cost is $70. To register or for more information contact Park Rapids Community Education at 218-237-6600.

"The Blind Mind" Exhibition

An exhibition titled "The Blind Mind" showcases the artistic creations of Dawn Rossbach. This novel body of work is a collection of 30 artworks, spanning a few months' creation and exploring the unique process employed by Rossbach, an artist afflicted with aphantasia - the inability to visualize images in the mind's eye. Through this exhibition, Rossbach delves into the intricate mechanisms by which her brain, despite this condition, generates works of art from memory without any external references. Rossbach is a fiscal year 2025 recipient of a Creative Individuals grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board. This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund.

The Sidekicks

The Heartland Concert Association's first concert of the season will feature The Sidekicks at 7 p.m. Friday, September 12 at the Park Rapids Area High School Auditorium. The Sidekicks is a high-energy group of professional musicians with combined decades of experience. Their show pays tribute to the music of the '70s and early '80s featuring musical hits you love along with pop-culture tidbits of the era. The Sidekicks share a passion for keeping the music of yesterday alive for those who were there, while introducing it to a new generation to enjoy. Season concert tickets are $70; $5 for students and may be ordered on the website - https://heartlandconcertassociation.org/season-tickets. Individual concert tickets may be purchased at the door for $25 (or if accompanied by a member $15).

Untold Veterans' Stories

For the Headwaters Center for Lifelong Learning program Tuesday, September 16, Tanya Miller, writing instructor, will share the results of her students' interviews with area veterans. HCLL programs are from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Tuesdays at the American Legion, 900 1st St. East. Sessions are free and handicapped accessible.

Photography Classes

In a series of photography classes Ryan Neely will teach basic skills you can apply to all of your favorite subjects. He will teach about each of the three primary settings that make up every camera: shutter speed, aperture and ISO. Then the class will cover how each setting works, which settings work best for which subjects and the limitation inherent in each of them. Next will be a deep dive into the artistic side touching on topics like composition, point of view, color balance, nighttime photograph and more. Many of the topics will apply to both fancy dSLRs as well as the camera in your phone. Each class will introduce you to several concepts, show how to set the controls on your camera and give you an assignment using those concepts. Classes will be from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays, September 16-October 28 (no class October 15). Fee is $70. To register or for more information contact Park Rapids Community Education at 218-237-6600.

Open Mic Night

The 1st Open Mic Night of the 2025-2026 season will be from 7 to 9 p.m. Thursday, September 18 at the Armory Arts & Events Center. Share your talents by calling 218-237-3722 to set up a 10-minute time slot. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Open Mic Nights are free to the public. Wine and beer are available at the AA&EC concession window.

Tin Punch Ornaments Class

Tin punch ornaments are decorative items made by punching patterns into seamless round tin lids, creating a pierced or embossed effect. These ornaments are often used as seasonal holiday decorations, but can also be displayed year-round. They are known for their rustic charm and the way they catch and reflect light. Jody Ziemann will teach this class from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Monday, September 22. Fee is $16. To register or for more information contact Park Rapids Community Education at 218-237-6600.

Emergency Response and End-of-Life Challenges

Jeremy Norton, author and 25-year firefighter/EMT veteran, will discuss cultural disconnect, denial of end-of-life realities and emergency response for the Headwaters Center for Lifelong Learning program Tuesday, September 23. HCLL programs are from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Tuesdays at the American Legion, 900 1st St. East. Sessions are free and handicapped accessible.

Line & Wash Watercolor Sunflower Class

Capture the beauty of fall with this relaxed and creative Line and Wash Watercolor Sunflower class. This lesson is for beginners and watercolor enthusiasts alike. Lily Hadrava will teach a technique that combines the loose flow of watercolor with the structure of ink line work to create a charming sunflower inspired by autumn tones. You will leave with a completed 8"x10" painting. The class will be from 5:30 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, September 25. Fee is $8 with a $25 material fee. To register or for more information contact Park Rapids Community Education at 218-237-6600..

StART Leap

Kick off Art Leap weekend with The Upper Mississippians at the Armory Arts and Events Center at 5:30 p.m. Friday, September 26. Enjoy an evening of dancing with music from the '20s through the '50s.

Art Leap 2025

Since the fall of 2006, Art Leap has introduced regional artists to visitors interested in learning more about their artwork, the creative process and how artists are often inspired by their natural surroundings. Many studios and sites host guest artists and offer demonstrations.

This year's 31 sites will feature more than 120 artists skilled in a variety of artistic expression: sculptures, paintings, mixed media, pottery, photography, mosaics, wood and metal work, fiber and paper arts, jewelry, beading and other Native American cultural art.

CLICK HERE for locations and map.

Fishing Tales

Jason Durham will present the Hubbard County Historical Society program, Fishing Tales, at 7 p.m. Monday, September 29 at the Northwoods Bank Community Room.

Touching History: One Family's 20th Century

Tuesday, September 30 the Headwaters Center for Lifelong Learning audience will learn about Marty Leistikow's new book, which takes a decade by decade look at events and trends as they influenced her family. HCLL programs are from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Tuesdays at the American Legion, 900 1st St. East. Sessions are free and handicapped accessible.

Pottery Painting Class: Pumpkin Platter

Karen Moyer, Leaf River Pottery, will teach three pottery painting classes this fall. All the pottery, glazes and general supplies needed are included. After class, the projects return with the instructor to the studio to be fired. Seven to 10 days later they will be returned to Community Ed, individually bagged, and participants will be notified by email so you can pick them up. The first class will be from 5 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, September 30. Fee for the Pumpkin Platter class is $45. To register or for more information contact Park Rapids Community Education at 218-237-6600.

Leaf Mosaic Class

Design and create a mosaic leaf on a wood base in a Community Education class with DeeDee Narum from 5 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, October 1. The finished piece will be approximately 7 inches. Students will learn to use tile nippers to cut glass as well as learn basic grouting and take home a finished mosaic leaf. There will be maple or elm leaf designs and glass colors available. Please indicate which leaf shape you’d like to make when registering. Cost is $70. To register or for more information contact Park Rapids Community Education at 218-237-6600.

"The Blind Mind" Exhibition

An exhibition titled "The Blind Mind" showcases the artistic creations of Dawn Rossbach. This novel body of work is a collection of 30 artworks, spanning a few months' creation and exploring the unique process employed by Rossbach, an artist afflicted with aphantasia - the inability to visualize images in the mind's eye. Through this exhibition, Rossbach delves into the intricate mechanisms by which her brain, despite this condition, generates works of art from memory without any external references. Rossbach is a fiscal year 2025 recipient of a Creative Individuals grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board. This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund.

Colorful Pumpkins Watercolor Painting Class

Unlock the secrets of watercolor artistry in an immersive fall pumpkin painting class. This class is designed for all skill levels and is for ages 18 and older. Participants will complete a 9"x12" watercolor with a wet-on-wet technique and finishing with finer details. Please bring a hair dryer to speed up the drying process and a snack or sack lunch for break. Instructor will be Darcy Brambrink, Minnesota Watercolor Society and American Watercolor Society. The class will be held from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, October 4. Fee is $80 including supplies or $45 if you bring your own. This class is sponsored in part by a creative individuals art grant from the Minnesota Arts and Legacy Fund. To register or for more information contact Park Rapids Community Education at 218-237-6600.

New Land, New Life: 1825-2025

Lawrence Moe, PHD, professor emeritus of English at Metropolitan State University will present the Headwaters Center for Lifelong Learning program Tuesday, October 7. He will commemorate the bicentennial of organized migration from Norway to America with attention to reasons for leaving Norway and efforts to preserve and appreciate Norwegian culture. HCLL programs are from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Tuesdays at the American Legion, 900 1st St. East. Sessions are free and handicapped accessible.

Round Wooden Tray Class

In this hands-on painting workshop participants will transform a simple round wooden tray into a work of art. Sarah Smith will guide you step-by-step through the process of painting with chalk paint and using stencils to create beautiful, intricate designs. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced crafter, this session is designed to inspire creativity while teaching essential techniques for working with chalk paint. The class will be from 5 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, October 8. Fee is $20 including all materials. To register or for more information contact Park Rapids Community Education at 218-237-6600.

Offutt Farms History

Jennifer Maleitzke will delve into the origins, development and influence of this important local employer for the Headwaters Center for Lifelong Learning program Tuesday, October 14. HCLL programs are from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Tuesdays at the American Legion, 900 1st St. East. Sessions are free and handicapped accessible.

Autumn Birches in Watercolor Class

Create a beautiful fall birch landscaping watercolor. In this class, students will explore essential techniques while painting an 8”x10” scene. Lily Hadrava’s class is perfect for beginners and those with some experience. The class will be from 5:30 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, October 15. Fee is $8 with a $25 material fee. To register or for more information contact Park Rapids Community Education at 218-237-6600.

Open Mic Night

Open Mic Night will be from 7 to 9 p.m. Thursday, October 16 at the Armory Arts & Events Center. Share your talents by calling 218-237-3722 to set up a 10-minute time slot. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Open Mic Nights are free to the public. Wine and beer are available at the AA&EC concession window.

Joyann Parker Band

Joyann Parker brings her "dynamically emotional and goosebumps-inducing voice" (Star-Tribune) to the Armory stage from 7 to 10 p.m. Saturday, October 18. This Minneapolis-based Americana/blues powerhouse has earned critical acclaim for her genre-blending artistry that seamlessly weaves together blues, soul, R&B and rock. Her latest album "Out of the Dark" showcases her remarkable vocal range and songwriting prowess. Tickets are $20 pre-sale at https://www.parkrapidsarmory.org/; $25 at the door.

Living at Home

Connie Carmichael, executive director of Living at Home of the Park Rapids Area, will give the Headwaters Center for Lifelong Learning program Tuesday, September 21. Connie will reveal the many services available through this nonprofit service for seniors. HCLL programs are from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Tuesdays at the American Legion, 900 1st St. East. Sessions are free and handicapped accessible.

Aria Nouveau

The Heartland Concert Association will bring Aria Nouveau at 7 p.m. Friday, October 24 at the Park Rapids Area High School Auditorium. Featuring the world-class talents of soprano Laura Auer and tenor John Riesen, Aria Nouveau transports audiences on a journey through crossover hits, Broadway blockbusters, mainstream opera favorites and popular music in an elegant and artful evening. Season concert tickets are $70; $5 for students and may be ordered on the website - https://heartlandconcertassociation.org/season-tickets. Individual concert tickets may be purchased at the door for $25 (or if accompanied by a member $15).

Ghost Stories from the Crypt 'Round the Campfire

Cuddle up with your favorite blanket and best buddies for some amped up interactive storytelling at 7:30 p.m. Friday, October 24 and 3 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday, October 25 at Long Lake Theater. For show details, go to https://www.longlaketheater.com/ or call 218-732-0099.

Paranormal Event - Magical Mystical Tour

Spend the day from noon to 6 p.m. Saturday, October 25 exploring the mysterious and mystical at the Armory Arts and Events Center. Browse unique vendors offering tarot and tea leaf readings, crystal ball gazing, palmistry and dark arts treasures. At noon, special guests P.A.S.T. - Paranormal Adventure Seekers Team will take the state with a fascinating slideshow and stories from their real-life paranormal investigations, followed by an audience Q&A.

Paranormal Event - Magical Mystical Tour

Park Theater is planning another Knit-Flicks series. Bring your knitting to the movies. Come to see “Stranger Than Fiction” (2006) at 2 p.m. Saturday, October 25 and work on your knitting, crocheting, needlepoint or other non-messy craft projects (no glue or glitter) in a relaxed theater setting. The house lights will be bright enough to see and polite chit-chat will be allowed. Tickets are free, thanks to sponsor Jennifer Christie Photo & Video, but pre-booking seats at www.parktheater.mn is recommended.

Park Rapids Fire Department History

The history of the Park Rapids Fire Department will be the program for the Hubbard County Historical Society at 7 p.m. Monday, October 27 at the Northwoods Bank Community Room. This also will be the Historical Society's annual meeting.

Pottery Painting Class: Stoneware Charcuterie TrayPottery Painting Class: Stoneware Charcuterie Tray

Karen Moyer, Leaf River Pottery, will teach two more pottery painting classes this fall. All the pottery, glazes and general supplies needed are included. After class, the projects return with the instructor to the studio to be fired. Seven to 10 days later they will be returned to Community Ed, individually bagged, and participants will be notified by email so you can pick them up. The second class will be from 5 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, November 4. Fee for the Charcuterie Tray class is $80. To register or for more information contact Park Rapids Community Education at 218-237-6600.

Autumn Birch Tree Landscape Watercolor Painting Class

The second movie in a Knit-Flicks series at Park Theater will be “Notting Hill” at 2 p.m. Saturday, November 15 and work on your knitting, crocheting, needlepoint or other non-messy craft projects (no glue or glitter) in a relaxed theater setting. The house lights will be bright enough to see and polite chit-chat will be allowed. Tickets are free, thanks to sponsor Jennifer Christie Photo & Video, but pre-booking seats at www.parktheater.mn is recommended.

Autumn Birch Tree Landscape Watercolor Painting Class

In this sophisticated workshop, participants will master techniques to capture the transparent layers and glowing colors characteristic of fall foliage and birch bark texture. Learn how to blend warm autumn hues and create distinctive white trunks with wet-on-wet washes and fine detailing with finish touches. This class is designed for artists looking to deepen their watercolor skills while appreciating the serene elegance of birch trees in a vibrant autumn setting. Whether you are an intermediate painter or advanced watercolorist age 18 and older, you will leave with a completed landscape that showcases the crisp light and subtle complexities of autumn birches. Join us to refine your technique and bring the magic of fall to life on your pallets. All supplies will be provided for a complete 12”x16” painting. Please bring a hair dryer to speed up the drying process and a snack or sack lunch for lunch. Instructor will be Darcy Brambrink, Minnesota Watercolor Society and American Watercolor Society. The class will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, November 15. Fee is $90 including supplies or $60 if you bring your own. This class is sponsored in part by a creative individuals art grant from the Minnesota Arts and Legacy Fund. To register or for more information contact Park Rapids Community Education at 218-237-6600.

Open Mic Night

Open Mic Night will be from 7 to 9 p.m. Thursday, November 20 at the Armory Arts & Events Center. Share your talents by calling 218-237-3722 to set up a 10-minute time slot. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Open Mic Nights are free to the public. Wine and beer are available at the AA&EC concession window.

Piano Potpourri

Pianist Nate Hance will perform Piano Potpourri for the Heartland Concert Association's concert at 7 p.m. Saturday, November 22 at the Park Rapids Area High School Auditorium. Nate Hance possesses a unique blend of skill, emotional depth and engaging showmanship. His repertoire includes timeless classics and original compositions, making his concerts a delightful journey through music. With his warm presence and exceptional talent, he promises to make a lasting impression on all who attend. Individual concert tickets may be purchased at the door for $25 (or if accompanied by a member $15).

Piano Potpourri

These seasoned Midwest rockers have been electrifying audiences since 1990, sharing stages with ZZ Top and Boston while building a devoted following across the region. The Fat Cats bring their signature blend of classic rock, blues and high-energy performance to Park Rapids, delivering an authentic rock experience from 7 to 9 p.m. Saturday, November 22 at the Armory Arts & Events Center. Tickets are $20 pre-sale at https://www.parkrapidsarmory.org/; $25 at the door.

Pottery Painting Class: Stoneware Soup Crocks

Karen Moyer, Leaf River Pottery, will teach this class on stoneware soup crocks. All the pottery, glazes and general supplies needed are included. After class, the projects return with the instructor to the studio to be fired. Seven to 10 days later they will be returned to Community Ed, individually bagged, and participants will be notified by email so you can pick them up. This class will be from 5 to 7 p.m. Monday, November 24. Fee is $40 for one crock; $64 for two. To register or for more information contact Park Rapids Community Education at 218-237-6600.

Wood Ornaments Class

Unwind and let your creativity flow as you craft one-of-a-kind wood ornaments. They can be simple, rustic pieces or intricately designed and personalized items, offering a warm, natural touch to holiday decor. Participants will make 6-8 ornaments during class time with Jamie Jokela. Bring a small bottle of wood glue and a handheld printer. The class will be held from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, December 9. Registration fee is $16 with a 410 fee for materials. To register or for more information contact Park Rapids Community Education at 218-237-6600.

"A Christmas Carol"

Reserve your seats to get into the holiday spirit with beautiful music and the unforgettable story of "A Christmas Carol" at shows at 7 p.m. Friday, December 12, 1 and 7 p.m. Saturday, December 13 and 1 p.m. Sunday, December 14 at Long Lake Theater. Ebenezer Scrooge declines Christmas dinner with the family, opting to be alone on this frosty winter night. His heart being as cold as his home, is challenged to warm up as the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future take him on a musical journey of his own life. Awakening his spirit brings a joyous new day in this classic, cherished Dickens tale. For more information, go to https://www.longlaketheater.com/ or call 218-732-0099.

Autumn Birch Tree Landscape Watercolor Painting Class

The third in a Knit-Flicks series at Park Theater will be "The Holiday" at 2 p.m. Saturday, December 27 and work on your knitting, crocheting, needlepoint or other non-messy craft projects (no glue or glitter) in a relaxed theater setting. The house lights will be bright enough to see and polite chit-chat will be allowed. Tickets are free, thanks to sponsor Jennifer Christie Photo & Video, but pre-booking seats at www.parktheater.mn is recommended.