Photo by Charlene Corson Selbee
Get ready to join the festivities with the residents of Caledonia as they mark the town’s annual Founder’s Day celebration, happening from June 13 to 15. This three-day event unfolds amidst the picturesque backdrop of the town’s historic downtown area.
No need to fret about going hungry during this community celebration. Alongside five local restaurants, a coffee shop, a bakery, and a healthy energy bar, food vendors will be set up all day and into the evening on Saturday offering delectable treats from Immanuel Lutheran Youth Group, Robotics, and Elsie’s. On Friday, June 14 from 5-8 p.m. head out to the Houston County Fairgrounds for a drive-thru-dinner hosted by the American Dairy Association. For just $10, indulge in a mouthwatering cheeseburger accompanied by chips, beans, chocolate milk, and a shake served outside the Udder Place.
The festivities kick off on Thursday night, June 13, at 7 p.m. with the Caledonia Founder’s Day Variety Show at the Caledonia Middle School/High School Performing Arts Center, written and directed by Heidi Myhre. Concessions will be available. If you miss Thursday’s show, catch it on Friday, June 14, at 7 p.m.
Saturday’s events commence with the 4th Annual 5K Run/Walk at 9 a.m., followed by the opening of the beer tent at 11 a.m. at the corner of Main and Marshall. The Randy Klinski Memorial car show takes center stage from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, featuring a variety of cars, trucks, tractors, and motorcycles.
At Gazebo Park, children can enjoy the Community Spirit Children’s Good Old Fashion FunFest, featuring magic shows at noon and 2 p.m., and a bubble gum-blowing contest at 2:45 p.m. There will be 14 tents filled with free, old fashion entertainment.
The Founder’s Day Parade kicks off at 4 p.m., starting at the fairground proceeding down Main Street and Kingston Street to Merchants Bank.
Additional activities include a bean bag tournament, a sawdust pile, and a demonstration by the Caledonia Robotic Warrior team #5914 at 12:30 p.m. behind the stage. DJ Dewey takes the stage at 11 a.m. Saturday night live entertainment features Dan Van and the Ravens from 5-7 p.m. at the corner of Marshall and Main. Concluding the evening, The High Mileage band rocks the stage from 8 p.m. to midnight.
A volleyball tournament at Ma Cal Grove Country Club, and a cash raffle drawing during The High Mileage band’s performance will add to the day’s excitement.
Upcoming Events in historic Bluff Country Include:
• June 13, Rhythm by the River, Preston, Minn.
• June 13-16, Founder’s Day Festival, Caledonia, Minn.
• June 15, Children’s Fun Fest, Caledonia, Minn.
• June 15, Art in the Park, Lanesboro, Minn.
The Visit Bluff Country Magazine is delivered to more than 1,000 locations in 35 counties in Iowa, Illinois, Minnesota, and Wisconsin. This magazine has a mission of promoting tourism in the Historic Bluff Country (Driftless) region.
For information on upcoming town festivals and events in Historic Bluff Country, vacation ideas for lodging, recreation, dining, and shopping, check out the magazine in print or online at www.visitbluffcountry.com.