Photo credit Evan Taylor Studios
Minnesota is defined by its varied landscape, the “Minnesota Nice” people that call it home, and the four vibrant seasons that give the state its color and beauty all throughout the year. The early foundation of it all? The state’s thriving agricultural industry—especially in rural southern Minnesota, where agriculture sales soar to $15.3 billion annually.
To celebrate Mankato and the surrounding area’s agricultural pursuits, local organization GreenSeam puts on its annual Gather in the GreenSeam celebration. Presented by Blue Earth County Soybean and Corn Growers Association and their checkoff, this six-week celebration features all kinds of fall events from grape stomps to fall festivals. As part of GreenSeam’s larger mission to initiate, grow, connect, and nurture the expansive area’s agricultural businesses, Gather in the GreenSeam is strategically celebrated in the heart of the harvest season. No matter the event, visitors from all over the state can expect fun activities, artistic talent, local charm and whole lot of community—plus, you’ll walk away with an increased appreciation for the people, organizations, and businesses that make up the area’s largest industry.
One of many wine and brew events throughout Gather in the GreenSeam is Chankaska Creek Ranch & Winery’s Uncorked event on Sept. 28, where visitors can enjoy Minnesota musicians, great wine, and free admission. Another popular yearly pick is Oktoberfest: Beir on Belgrade (Sept. 21) in historic North Mankato with food vendors, games, live music, and of course, plenty of beer.
Photo credit Children's Museum of Southern Minnesota
There’s quite a few fall adventures for the family, too, like the Children’s Museum of Southern Minnesota’s harvest festival, which puts on educational classes, presentations, and family-friendly activities all through September and October. (Note: The toddler straw maze is a crowd favorite.) Families can also support local farmers, gardeners, and makers by shopping at the Mankato Farmers Market, which runs through the second weekend of October.
Photo credit BikeMN
If you’re big into sports and recreational activities, Gather in the GreenSeam has something for you. Take pride in local football as the Minnesota State University’s Mavericks take on the Winona Warriors during the Harvest Bowl on Sept. 28. Just a week later is the eighth annual Mankato River Ramble on Oct. 6 with some of the best cycling in Minnesota—choose one of four scenic tours ranging from 12 to 58 miles and enjoy treats, attractions, and other amenities on your way.
These are only some of the events happening during Gather in the GreenSeam. For the complete list of events and activities including grape stomps, art and Minnesota maker fairs, and even more fall festivals, check out gatherinthgreenseam.com—you just might find some extra coupons and incentives, too.
