ROCHESTER, MN – On May 13, 2025, the Southeastern Minnesota Arts Council (SEMAC) Board of Directors announced the awarding of $345,985 in arts programming grants to nonprofit organizations and schools throughout Southeastern Minnesota. These grants will support diverse arts and cultural programming and strengthen creative communities across the region. The funding includes: … [Read more...]
Rushford Days Offers Fun for All Ages, July 16-20
No need to rush to Rushford, Minn., for Rushford Days, happening July 16-20, there’s plenty for all ages to do and enjoy. “Mark your calendars and join us in celebrating Rushford Days 2025. We look forward to seeing you there and sharing these unforgettable experiences together!” exclaimed organizer Jennifer Feine. Collectible pinback buttons can be purchased in advance for … [Read more...]
Music in the Bluffs Concert Series Returns
This summer, experience the charm of Whalan, Minnesota, with the return of the popular Music in the Bluffs outdoor concert series. Nestled along the scenic Root River in Fillmore County, surrounded by limestone bluffs, the series brings live music to Whalan Park Gazebo for a third consecutive year. The free concerts invite locals and visitors alike to relax among the bluffs … [Read more...]
SMIF Awards 359.25 Gallons of Paint to Beautify Small Towns
Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation (SMIF) awarded 359.25 gallons of paint to 13 communities across its 20-county region through its Paint the Town Grant Program. This program is designed to engage volunteers and build collaborative efforts that beautify communities through painting community murals, community welcome signs, historic structures or public art. The Paint … [Read more...]
Local Students to Showcase Artistic Talents
The level of artistic talent in our area is astounding. Some of that flair will be highlighted during the upcoming Juried High School Art Show. The annual art show sponsored by Lanesboro Arts is an event which is positive and supportive in many ways for the young student artists. The Juried High School Art Show will take place from January 11 through February 2, 2025, at … [Read more...]
Discover a Fall Tour Crafted Just for You
Harvest season is upon us, and the landscape is ablaze with fall. With perfect weather for a tour, there’s no better time to explore the three wineries, two distilleries, and four breweries that call Fillmore and Houston Counties home. A one-of-a-kind tour crafted just for you makes exploring the vibrant farming communities of Bluff Country a breeze. Before you embark on … [Read more...]
Up Up and Away!
Plan to attend the annual Caledonia Balloon Rally from October 18-20 where ten hot air balloons are scheduled to launch from the field behind the Caledonia Middle School/High School at 825 N. Warrior Drive. The Caledonia Balloon Rally planning committee is excited to invite everyone to this year’s event, which has been a beloved tradition in Caledonia since 1990. The balloon … [Read more...]
SEMAC Announces Recent Individual Artist Grant Awards
On September 17, 2024, the Board of Directors of the Southeastern Minnesota Arts Council awarded $126,065 in arts programming grants to artists and public schools throughout Southeastern Minnesota. This includes two previously-announced School Residency grants, fourteen Emerging Artist grants and sixteen Advancing Artist grants. Grants were awarded to the following … [Read more...]
Picture-Perfect Autumn: Your Guide To Bluff Country’s Byways
Autumn is a popular time to explore the scenic byways in Historic Bluff Country. The varied landscape provides a picturesque backdrop for photos, selfies, and videos. With leaves changing colors, the bright blue sky, the fall harvest, and colorful birds, you’re guaranteed to find something that captures your interest. Pumpkins, squash, and apples contribute to colorful fall … [Read more...]
Houston County Fair Open Class Results
Ceramics Glazed, Ages 6-8: Natalie Schulze, Blue, Grand Champion Collectables Age over 16, Santas - M, Katie Broadwater, Blue, Grand Champion Most unusual collection - M: Elaine Graf, Blue, Reserve Champion Crafts Handicrafts, New used for old discards: Ellie Harmon, Blue, Grand Champion Wall hanging: Kristi Schuld, Blue, Reserve Champion Crafts 14 and … [Read more...]