Best Bets | May 16th, 2024
Need more events? Check out our July 2024 and August 2024 calendars. (They're cleverly split up to save you some scrolling.)
Spring Crows
Now - June 28, Spirit Room, Fargo
Forty artists display works centered around a crow theme. Opening reception on May 17.
Women of the West Art Show
Now - June 29, Long X Arts Foundation Gallery, Watford City
Amanda Heimbuch's mixed media art is inspired by western women.
https://longxarts.com/event/women-of-the-west-amanda-heimbuch/
Forever Music Concert
May 17-18, Belle Mehus Auditorium, Bismarck
Hear the young voices of the Central Dakota Children’s Choir.
This Random World
May 18-19, Theatre B, Moorhead
Theatre B explores serendipity and missed connections in this funny, bittersweet play.
Touch-a-Truck
May 18, Main Street, Mandan.
Heavy equipment and work trucks line Main Street for up-close viewing.
Scheels Backyard BBQ
May 18, Scheels, Bismarck
Live music, giveaways, samples, Stan’s Supermarket sausage, food truck eats and ice cream.
Dead Threads: A Brewhalla Vintage Market
May 18, Brewhalla, Fargo
30+ vendors sell clothing, accessories, decor and furniture. Tailoring and dry cleaning too.
https://brewhalla.co/deadthreads/
West Fargo Market
May 18, POW/MIA Plaza, West Fargo
The Red River Market arrives on Sheyenne for an immersive one-day event.
City Slicker Showdown
May 18, McKenzie County Ag Expo, Watford City
Shoot, rope, and ride your way to the top and claim your spot as McKenzie County's Champion City Slicker!
https://www.mcagexpo.com/events
Cody Johnson: The Leather Tour
May 18, FARGODOME
The Nashville platinum recording artist is joined by Justin Moore & Drake Milligan.
https://www.fargodome.com/events
S’mores World Record Attempt
May 18, Fort Stevenson State Park, Garrison
Be a part of a world record attempt and score some s’mores too.
Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live Glow Party
May 18-19, Bismarck Event Center.
Lasers, lights, freestyle motocross and a fire-breathing robot.
https://www.bismarckeventcenter.com/events/hot-wheels-monster-trucks-live
Antique Sampler Presentation
May 19, Hjemkomst Center, Moorhead
Kathy Andrews discusses antique embroidery samplers at this free event.
Sesame Street Live
May 19, Scheels Arena, Fargo
Your favorite characters come to life, live on stage.
https://www.scheelsarena.com/news_article/show/1290782
Plant And Seed Exchange
May 19, Heritage Garden & Amphitheater, Moorhead
Enjoy refreshments and bring seeds and plants to trade.
https://plainsart.org/events/plant-seed-exchange-5/
Portugal. The Man with Reyna Tropical
May 20, Fargo Theatre, Fargo
The Portland-based, Grammy-winning rock band plays an intimate Fargo show.
https://jadepresents.com/event/
Wednesday Bites
May 22, Town Square, Grand Forks
Food trucks serve lunch 11-2 every Wednesday, now through October.
https://downtownforks.com/wednesday-bites
CoreCon 2024: Echoes of the Past
May 23-26, Holiday Inn, Fargo
Science fiction, fantasy, horror and anime convention
Asian Night Market
May 24, Plains Art Museum, Fargo
A celebration of Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) artistry and community.
https://plainsart.org/events/asian-night-market/
Season Kick-off at Cottonwood Cider House
May 24, Cottonwood Cider House, Ayr
Celebrate opening weekend in the taproom and try a range of ciders made with North Dakota apples.
https://cottonwoodciderhouse.com/
Fairy Fest
May 25, Yunker Farm and Dog Park
Enjoy a fairy parade, kite flying, sidewalk chalk art, scavenger hunt, or create a fairy garden. Costumes are encouraged.
https://www.facebook.com/events/s/fairy-fest/404477939128409/
Embroidery Presentation
May 25, Hjemkomst Center, Moorhead
Sandra Gordon describes embroidery at this free event.
Skyfest Over Fort Stevenson
May 25-27, Fort Stevenson, Garrison
Spot stunt kites, see professional kite flyers and even fly your own kite along Lake Sakakawea.
Shady Hollow Flea Market Opening Weekend
May 25-27, Detroit Lakes
Also held weekends through Labor Day.
http://shadyhollowfleamarket.com/
Badlands Gravel Battle
May 26, Medora
Cycle 40, 80, or 120 miles of dusty red scoria roads through Medora and beyond.
https://www.experienceland.org/badlands-gravel-battle
Memorial Day Hike
May 27, Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park, Mandan
Celebrate Memorial Day and honor those who have given everything for our country. The hike starts at the Commissary Store.
https://www.facebook.com/events/409326274789305
Dickinson High School Rodeo and Cutting
May 27, Stark County Fairgrounds, Dickinson
Roping and riding from some of the toughest young cowgirls and cowboys.
https://www.visitdickinson.com/events/2024/dickinson-high-school-rodeo
Fargo Marathon
May 28-June 1, Fargo
The 20th annual event honors late founder Mark Knutson.
https://fargomarathon.com/marathon/
Paddling Excursion
May 29, Hjemkomst Landing, Moorhead
Canoe or kayak on this guided excursion. Also held June 12 and 24, July 10 and 24, August 7 and 21 and September 4. Rentals available.
https://www.riverkeepers.org/projects-and-activities/canoeing-and-boating/
Take Me Out to the FM RedHawks Game
May 29, Newman Outdoor Field, Fargo
The FM Libraries are hosting Library Day at the FM RedHawks game, where the first 600 kids will receive a free book.
https://fmredhawks.com/schedule/promotions/
Summer Kickoff Party
May 30, West Fargo Public Library
Snacks, crafts, yard games, model trains and fun for all ages.
Lost in Fargo Artist’s Flea Market
May 30, Wild Terra, Fargo
Over 30 artists and makers sell materials, art supplies and actual art.
https://www.facebook.com/events/s/lost-in-fargo-artists-flea-mar/961259978863563/
Street Faire at the Lakes
Friday, May 31-June 1
Celebrate summer in downtown Detroit Lakes for two days of arts, crafts, music, food, and kids’ activities.
Chutes and Boots Pro Bull Riding
May 31-June 1, The Lights, West Fargo
Hard-hitting rodeo action in the city.
https://www.westfargoevents.com/event/
Comedy in the Cellar
May 31-June 1, Front Street Taproom, Fargo
Trevor Anderson and Eli Ruffer. 21+
https://www.frontstreettaproom.com/comedyinthecellar
Kite Fest
May 31-June 2, Meidinger Park, Jamestown
Come for candy drops, kite making, contests, and demos. Free and open to all.
https://www.wingsonstrings.org/kitefest/
Missouri River Festival
May 31 - June 9, Bismarck Event Center, Bismarck
Carnival with food, games, rides and fun for the whole family.
Joan Jett and The Blackhearts
June 1, Scheels Arena, Fargo
Rock icon, guitarist and record producer — can we say triple threat?
https://www.scheelsarena.com/news_article/show/130487
Happy Hour - A Stand-Up Comedy Fundraiser
June 1, Empire Arts Center, Grand Forks
Laugh into your giggle water for a good cause.
https://www.empireartscenter.com/
Willison Marathon
June 1, XWA Airport, Williston
This family-friendly Boston Qualifier includes a marathon, half marathon, 10K and 5K.
https://visitwilliston.com/events/2024-williston-marathon/
Old Red Old Ten Rummage Sale
June 1, New Salem, Hebron, surrounding communities
This 108-mile rummage sale along a scenic route in western North Dakota.
https://oldredoldten.com/?page_id=73
Summer Reading Challenge Kick-off: Adventure Party
June 3, Rheault Farm, Fargo
Bring a picnic lunch and join the Fargo Public Library for adventure-themed activities and games.
Concert in the Park
June 4, Detroit Lakes City Park, Detroit Lakes
Free event featuring Lakes Area Community Concert Band. Also held every Tuesday June-August.
Bark In The Park
June 4, River’s Bend Park, West Fargo
Contests, doggie door prizes, make your own dog door or accessory.
https://wfparks.org/community-special-events-2/
Swing!
June 4-8, MSUM, Moorhead
A charming song and dance show featuring jive and swing tunes.
https://mnstatetickets.universitytickets.com/
Happy Harry’s Ribfest
June 5-8, FARGODOME
Great food and live music from Eve 6, Chase Beckham, Blackhawk and more.
https://www.fargodome.com/events/detail/happyharrysribfest
Out of the Box Open Mic Comedy Night
June 6, Empire Arts Center, Grand Forks
All skill levels are welcome. Walk-ins available.
https://www.empireartscenter.com
Winnie The Pooh
June 6-8, Concordia College Lab Theatre, Moorhead
Theatre B, HOPE, Inc. and Concordia Theatre to present an adaptive theater program for performers with disabilities.
Donut Day
June 7, Sandy’s Donuts, Downtown Fargo
Celebrate National Donut Day with free cake style donuts and historical reenactors, hosted by the Salvation Army. Downtown only.
Hawley Rodeo
June 7-8
Hillside rodeo action along the Buffalo River.
Food Truck Rodeo
June 7-9, Rough Rider Center, Watford City
Mobile food vendors, inflatables, cornhole, cash bar, great food and good vibes.
Lewis and Clark State Park 50th Birthday
June 8, rural Epping
Activities include a dog jog, dinosaur dig for fossils, inflatables, hot dogs, a kids fishing derby and live music.
https://www.facebook.com/events/1051224482886427
Mary Seifert Author Event
June 8, Ferguson Books, West Fargo
This Minnesota author’s mysteries feature dogs, puzzles and murder (not necessarily in that order).
10th Annual Otter Creek MTB Race
June 8, Harmon Lake, Mandan
Race the single-track trail along the contours of Harmon Lake and compete for over $4200 in cash prizes.
https://runsignup.com/Race/ND/Mandan/OtterCreek55
Stories With Dad
June 8, West Acres, Fargo
Storytime and donut decorating in Aquarium Court.
Under Brew Skies
June 8, The Lights, West Fargo
Sample craft beers made right here in North Dakota and from around the region.
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/under-brew-skies-tickets-885612890997
Silent Reading Party
June 8, Bear Creek Winery, Fargo
Enjoy wine and a book from Fargo Public Library or your stash. This is a 21+ event.
ArtFest
June 8-9, University Park, Grand Forks
Shop for art from nearly 100 artists and food vendors. Live music too.
https://www.publicartnd.org/artfest
Buggies and Blues
June 8-9, Main Street, Mandan.
Hot rods, classic rides and cool tunes rock the streets of Mandan each June.
NDSU Bookstore Summer Sidewalk Sale
June 10-June 28
Save big on NDSU apparel, gifts in person (Monday-Friday) and online.
RiverArts
June 11, Viking Ship Park, Moorhead
Hear Norwegian fiddlers and Post Traumatic Funk Syndrome, learn about the Scandinavian Festival and make your own vinyl stickers. Drinks and food too.
Scavenger Hunt
June 11, Veterans Memorial Arena, West Fargo
Scour the city for a shot at the Grand Prize. Everyone scores a free hotdog, chips and beverage.
https://wfparks.org/community-special-events-2/
Fiddler on the Roof
June 11-15, MSUM, Moorhead
A musical favorite performed in partnership with The Straw Hat Players
REO Speedwagon
June 12, Scheels Arena, Fargo
We can’t fight this feeling anymore. Classic rock legends, live and onstage.
https://www.scheelsarena.com/news_article/show/1303624
Connecting the Caregiver Conference
June 12, Hjemkomst Center, Moorhead
Free event for people caring for folk with memory loss. Register by calling 218-299-5514.
Perham Turtle Fest
June 12-16, Perham
Celebrate 40 years with a parade, street fair, and parking lot party in Minnesota lakes country.
https://www.perham.com/turtlefest/
Sustainable Agriculture Talk
June 13, The Eagles Club, Valley City
Dr. John Ikerd will discuss our food system, recent history of American agriculture and rural communities at this free event. Zoom is available.
701-845-0966
Fort Union Rendezvous
June 13-16, Fort Union near Williston
Over 100 historical reenactors bring the Fur Trade era to life with art, music, crafts, and talks
https://www.nps.gov/fous/learn/photosmultimedia/rendezvous-information-for-participants.htm
Jon Pardi
June 14, The Lights, West Fargo
Opening act Carter Faith
https://www.epiceventsnd.com/epic-events/jon-pardi
Peggy Lee Day
June 14, VCSU Center for the Arts, Valley City
A concert features the Myron Sommerfeld Band and Miss Bonnie Lynn, with coffee and an ice cream social to follow. Free, but food pantry donations are suggested.
701-845-0966
Midwest Kid Fest and Teddy Bear Parade
June 14, Island Park, Fargo
Now in its 25th year, this event boasts crafts, games, sensory toys, food, live entertainment, a petting zoo and educational booths.
https://www.fargoparks.com/events-and-deadlines/midwest-kid-fest
Comedy in the Cellar
June 14-15, Front Street Taproom, Fargo
Casey Flesch and Lahiru Samarasinghe headline a 21+ show.
https://www.frontstreettaproom.com/comedyinthecellar
Dakota Community Bank and Trust PBR Bull Riding Challenge
June 14-15, Bismarck Event Center, Bismarck
The 24th Annual event features some of the PBR’s top bull riders and Chad Berger Bucking Bulls.
Ashley Sizzling Summer Days
June 14-16, Ashley
Come for the kuchen, stay for good company.
https://www.facebook.com/AshleySizzlingSummer
5th Annual Fargo Juneteenth
June 15, NDSU Renaissance Hall, Fargo
Entertainment, virtual reality, art, and volunteerism combine to celebrate Black culture and community.
https://www.awesomefoundation.org/en/projects/250683-5th-annual-juneteenth
West Fargo Street Fair
June 15, POW/MIA Plaza, West Fargo
Vendors, live music, street food
https://www.westfargoevents.com/event/
Empire Alive 2024
June 15, Empire Arts Center, Grand Forks
A musical fundraiser featuring The Dank, Cheron and more.
https://www.empireartscenter.com/
Purple Rain
June 15, Fargo Theatre, Fargo
See the classic Prince film on its 40th anniversary.
Roll into Summer with Bike, Board, and Skate Skills
June 15, Moorhead Public Library, Moorhead
Come learn safety, etiquette, and basic maintenance from the experts from Great Northern Bicycle Company, the Moorhead Police, and THIS Skateshop.
https://larl.libnet.info/events?l=moorhead%20public%20library
Soul Asylum and Gear Daddies
June 15, The Lights, West Fargo
VIP and general admission tickets available, standing room only.
https://thelightswf.com/event_calendar/
Roughrider Days
June 15-July 7, Dickinson
Days of fun, including a youth and PRCA Rodeo, demo derby, live music and a parade.
https://www.roughriderdaysfair.com/
2nd Annual Moorhead Juneteenth Celebration
June 17, Hjemkomst Center, Moorhead
Drumming, storytelling, live music, local art
https://www.awesomefoundation.org/en/projects/250683-5th-annual-juneteenth
Race The Red Canoe and Kayak Races
June 17, Dike East, Fargo
Paddle the storied waters of the Red River or watch from the shore.
https://www.riverkeepers.org/projects-and-activities/race-the-red/
Trout Fest
June 19, Woodhaven Pond, Fargo
Come catch fish right within the city limits.
https://www.fargoparks.com/events-and-deadlines/dates/trout-fest
Greater Grand Forks Fair
June 19-23
Enjoy fair food, the midway, entertainment, a beer garden and more.
https://www.grandforksfair.com/
Night Bazaar
June 20, Broadway Square, Fargo
Food, music, art and music, this time with a Renaissance theme. (Monthly events held July-October too.)
https://www.folkways.org/nightbazaar
West Fargo Cruise Night Opening Event
June 20, Downtown Yards on Sheyenne, West Fargo
Hundreds of classic cars and motorcycles line the streets. The monthly event is held July-September as well.
https://www.westfargoevents.com/event/
Rapid River Days
June 20-22, Sauk Rapids
Check out a parade, live music, a food festival and community-wide sales and promos.
https://www.saukrapidsriverdays.com/
Scandinavian Festival
June 21-22, Hjemkomst Center, Moorhead
Art, culture, music and food from the five Nordic nations
https://www.facebook.com/NordicCultureClubsScandinavianFestival/
Rent
June 23-30, FMCT, Moorhead
Struggling artists find love and connection in this gritty musical.
https://fmct.org/current-season/#on
RiverArts
June 25, Viking Ship Park, Moorhead
Check out the petting zoo, make a dreamcatcher and hear live music from Gina Powers Band and Fargo-Moorhead Opera.
Silent Reading Party
June 25, Twenty Below Coffee Co., Fargo
This is an all-ages event. Kids under 10 must be accompanied by an adult.
Jersey Boys
July 25-August 3, Sleepy Hollow Theatre Arts Park, Bismarck
Hear crowd pleasing tunes by the story of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons at this outdoor, Broadway-style theater. Bring your own chairs or blankets.
Upper Missouri Valley Fair
June 26-30, Upper Missouri Valley Fairgrounds, Williston
Carnival rides, street food, bucking bulls and broncos
Cruz-In Forks: The Downtown Car Show
June 27, Downtown Grand Forks and East Grand Forks
Check out classic cars, hot rods, muscle cars and more. Also held the 4th Thursday of the month, July-September
Nitty Gritty Dirt Band
June 28
Shooting Star Casino, Mahnomen
The country rockers bring their farewell tour to the upper Midwest.
https://www.starcasino.com/mahnomen/entertainment-calendar/
Blues on the Red
June 29, Town Square, Grand Forks
Soulful regional and national blue artists presented by The Olive Ann Hotel in a gorgeous outdoor setting.
Tigirlily Gold
June 29, Dale Pahlke Arena, Mandan
The popular duo plays a hometown show after landing a weekly residence in Nashville and winning an ACM award.
https://mandanrodeo.com/concert/
Jo Dee Messina
June 29, UP District Field, Fargo
Outdoor show from a classic country crooner
https://jadepresents.com/event/2024-jo-dee-messina-fargo/
Max Fleet Illusionist
June 29, Empire Arts Center, Grand Forks
Inject a little magic into an ordinary summer.
https://www.empireartscenter.com/calendar/2024/6/29/fleet-tune-into-magic
Brewhalla Summer Makers Market
June 30, Brewhalla, Fargo
40+ craft vendors. Free for all ages (minor with an adult)
https://www.ungluedmarket.com/drekkercraftmarket
Cats The Musical
June 30-July 2, July 7-8, The Lights, West Fargo
Stage West brings the Andrew Lloyd Webber musical to the open air stage.
https://www.facebook.com/StageWestWF/
Don't forget to read our July 2024 and August 2024 Sumer Event Calendars. There's a lot going on this summer and we don't want you to miss a thing.
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