Let’s Get Out There: Join Us for Local Summer Adventures

This winter, I (Rebecca) spent a few months living in South Carolina as I entered my first year of an empty nest. While I missed the comforts of Minnesota, I found myself stepping out more—attending book events, trying new restaurants, popping into fitness studios, strolling through farmers markets, and discovering local gems—to get to know the area.

I realized something unexpected: I was more adventurous in a new town than I tend to be in my own.

That sparked a thought.

Why not explore our backyard with that same spirit of curiosity and joy? So this summer, Karyn and I are making it a priority to get out and experience all the incredible things Minnesota has to offer.

Our Local Summer Series is a simple, intentional effort to soak up summer through good food, movement, community, and connection.

And you're invited.

Each month, we'll do something local: farmers markets, farm visits, lake walks, berry picking, kayaking, and even garlic festivals (yes, really!). Most experiences are free or low-cost. A few require registration through their website, like our June visit to the Wise Acres Farm.

Let us know if you're coming through our Free registration link so we can meet you there and share the experience.

Here's what's coming up—mark your calendars and bring a friend!

Summer 2025 Meetup Schedule

May

• 🥬 May 17: Mill City Farmer’s Market + Walk
  Join us at 9:00 a.m. for a morning walk along the river, followed by a visit to the vibrant Mill City Market.
  

• 🥖 May 31: Walk Around Lake Harriet + Snack
  We’ll start at the Lake Harriet Band Shell at 2:00 p.m. and end with a bite at Bread & Pickle.
  

June

• 🍓 Mid-June (TBD): Strawberry Picking at The Strawberry Basket
  The date will be selected based on the crop. We’ll pick berries (and maybe some flowers!) and soak in the summer vibes.
  

• 🚜 June 21: Farm Day 2025 at Wise Acres
  A beautiful, family-friendly day on the farm in Plato, MN—picnic lunch, farm tours, animals, and hands-on fun. Please meet us at the farm at 10:30 a.m. 🎟️ Tickets are required. (CSA members get a discount.
  

July (Dates coming soon)

• 🍕 Red Barn Farm Pizza Night + Bike Ride
  Ride, eat, relax—a picturesque evening with friends and pizza on the farm.
  

• 🫐 Blueberry Picking at Blueberry Fields of Stillwater
  A sweet way to spend a summer morning. Pack a picnic and make a day of it!
  

August

• 🧄 August 9: Minnesota Garlic Festival
  Garlic lovers unite for live music, artisan vendors, and all things garlic. Meet us in Hutchinson at 10:30 a.m..
  

• 🛶 August 24: Kayak the Kinni
  Float down the beautiful Upper Kinni River with us! We’ll rent kayaks and explore an all—levels route. It's a peaceful end-of-summer adventure.
  

Ready to Join Us?

There’s no big commitment—just small, meaningful ways to connect and explore together.

We’ll keep you posted with any date changes or new additions.

➡️ First, visit our webpage. View the events you're interested in. If tickets are required, purchase tickets through the event page.

➡️ For all events, please sign up through our Google form so we know you are coming, and we can communicate where to connect with the group and any unexpected itinerary changes.

This summer, let’s experience local life fully—and together. We look forward to seeing you at an event soon!