Life In Minnesota

The heat, the hot dogs, the hoopla… the Fourth of July is coming! Arguably the quintessential summer celebration in Minnesota, the 4th is a great time to get together and practice some patriotism. It can be fun to host a gathering at home with slushies and sparklers and sprinklers. But sometimes it's fun to join in the celebrations put...

France, yes. Napa Valley, yes. Italy, most likely. Argentina, probably. Minnesota? Well, the land of 10,000 lakes may not be the first thing that comes to mind when the world thinks about great wines. But I'll tell you what, Minnesota wineries and vineyards are pretty amazing, and they're bottling some really tasty vino. Here are 13 of the best wineries...

It takes a trusted canoe guide to lead a pack of Scouts through the Minnesota wilderness. One who is equipped with the knowledge and understanding of the great outdoors, can offer up safety techniques, and educate along the way. Meet Christina "Trina" Weisel, a recent University of Minnesota - Crookston graduate and trusted canoe guide. Originally from Alexandria, Minnesota, Trina...

I’m going to be completely transparent: As a mom of four, I figured I’d go to the zoo more often than I do. In fact, in the past ten years, I’ve only gone a few times and mostly as a field trip chaperone. But this year, in preparation for my husband’s first stay-at-home summer with the kids, I decided to...

Though Minnesota is known for its 10,000 lakes, it’s also the land of farm fields (26 million acres' worth, to be exact). And while gardening is one of the top outdoorsy things to do in Minnesota in the summer, not everyone has a green thumb! It may be quick and easy to buy produce at the local grocery store,...

There are lots of things to do in Minnesota in the summer: boating, fishing, laying by the pool or going to concerts and festivals, to name just a few. But if there’s one thing Minnesotans love to do in the summertime above all the rest, it’s barbecue (here, though, we call it grilling).  When the temperatures climb and it’s too...

County fair season is making its way around the corner! This is the time of year where we gather with our families and friends and prepare for a good time outdoors at local county fairgrounds. Whether you wish to indulge in deep fried treats on a stick, listen to great music, enjoy thrilling rides, or tour multiple exhibits; there is...

“Going up north for the weekend!” “Leaving for the lake after work!” If there’s one thing Minnesotans enjoy, it’s heading to a cabin for a few days of summer sun. Minnesota is famous for being the Land of 10,000 (and more!) Lakes. And there’s certainly plenty of destinations to choose from-- all the way from southernmost Jackson County up to...

There’s a familiar saying oft-repeated by Minnesotans: “Here, we have two seasons: winter and road construction.” Despite the onslaught of traffic cones and road closures that come with warmer weather, there is a reward for surviving the traffic nightmares-- eating outdoors! As the weather warms up and the drinks cool down, many Minnesotans like to take advantage of the...

Meet Lola. Entrepreneur. Philanthropist. Kindergartener. On most Saturday mornings from June to October, you’ll find this 5-year-old at the Cannon Falls Farmer’s Market, minding the till at Lola’s Lemonade. For twenty-five cents, you’ll get a cup of tasty refreshment, but the true impact of your purchase goes so much further. You see, Lola is a small girl with a great big heart....