GREAT Summer Activities

Whether we want to accept it or not, the elusive season known as summer is coming to an end.

BUT, this isn’t to say there aren’t a whole ton of fabulous ways to enjoy it here in St. Cloud.

First, let’s discuss the community phenomenon that is Summertime By George! The outdoor music/food/craft/etc extravaganza has been bringing central Minnesotans in the by the thousands this year, and you still have one more week to experience it for yourself! Come down to Lake George on Wednesday, August 27th for the sound of central MN favorite, The Fabulous Armadillos!

Summertime by George // Photo Credit: Granite City Photography

Music is everywhere in St. Cloud during the summer months, including Munsinger Gardens, perched near the Mississippi on the city’s south side. Music in the Gardens brings talented musicians together every other Sunday afternoon near the Gazebo in Munsinger Gardens. Like Summertime by George, the musical performances are free to all. Oh, and root beer floats for a dollar don’t sound too bad.

Music in the Gardens 

Nothing says summer quite like a spread of fresh vegetables, fruits and other locally-produced foods. The St. Cloud Area Farmer’s Markets haven’t sung their swan song just yet!  The Saturday market has been a popular staple, and you can find it in the Lady Slipper Parking Lot (that’s the one between Perkin’s and Fitzharris in downtown St. Cloud), 8am-noon, through the last Saturday in October.

St. Cloud Area Farmer's Market 

If you’re aiming for a late summer outing on the water, but don’t have the proper boating gear, you should check out the boathouse at Lake George. SCSU’s Outdoor Endeavors club has joined forces with the City of St. Cloud, St. Cloud Parks Department and the St. Cloud Rotary Club to make Lake George a focal point for rentals of boats, canoes, kayaks and more, along with professional instruction and safety advice, all summer long. Rates vary depending on gear and time, but this is a solid way to try a new water activity without a serious commitment!

Lake George

And finally, The St. Mary’s Cathedral Block Party in downtown St. Cloud is a summer-ending smash hit, and that’s going to be hosted on September 6th. The event starts at 4pm with an outdoor mass, and is set to include food, a beer garden a raffle, a silent auction, several popular local music acts and lots more. Seriously - what’s better at wrapping up summer than a gigantic downtown party?

So there you have it. There’s plenty of summer left after all! Be sure to check out AroundtheCloud.org for a variety of additional activities, arts, and entertianment throughout the community. Anything make the list that you’re going to do? Leave us a comment and tell us about it!