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NORTH DAKOTA
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NEWS
7 non-traditional ways to enjoy winter in North Dakota
So it’s not a traditional winter as we’ve come to know in North Dakota. Most places are devoid of snow, and temperatures are warmer here than in the Deep South – and have been all winter. That’s cool. There’s still a lot to do in North Dakota this time of year. Don’t wait for the snow. Get out and enjoy some of these non-traditional winter activities.
1. Stay on your game
Dreaming about golf in January? Keep your swing in shape in North Dakota this winter by hitting a few indoor golf facilities. Perfect your game at one of the 30-plus stations available at Fore Seasons Center in Bismarck or the Sports Bubble in Fargo. Swing away in the driving cages at West River Community Center in Dickinson or get tips from local pros in the area. Cyber play some of the best golf courses on golf simulators around the state at North Hill Bowl in Minot, Garrison Golf Course or Fairways in Bismarck.
2. Hitting the trail
The weather has been ideal for hiking this winter. Get out and explore the many trails around the state to catch a glimpse of active wildlife this season. North Dakota’s State Parks offer miles of marked hiking trails with each one offering something unique for hiking enthusiasts. There also are great spots for day hikes or check out Susan Wefald’s latest book, Spectacular North Dakota Hikes, Bring the Dog.
3. Walk, jog or run this winter
Looking to make good on your New Year’s fitness resolution? Join Red River Runners in Grand Forks for an informational workshop on January 15. Start slowly by training for upcoming fun events like the Frozen Feat or get ready for some of the big races like the Fargo Marathon and Bismarck Marathon.
4. Swim fit
Swim year-round in North Dakota. Many aquatic facilities around the state have open- and family swim schedules, as well as training pools for those wanting to increase their laps. You will find fun and fitness for the entire family at indoor water parks around the state.
5. On the ice
Stay fit on skates this winter. Whether you crave the nostalgic experience of skating at the local pond or prefer honing your skills indoors, you can find it in North Dakota. All major cities have indoor ice skating rinks, and most communities have outdoor rinks. Want to learn how to skate or take your talents to the next level? North Dakota has several local figure skating clubs and hockey leagues.
6. Climb to fitness
Rock climbing can improve your cardiovascular health and muscle endurance and help you lose weight. Wall climbing works your upper body and gets your heart pumping, helping improve both your strength and aerobic capacity at the same time. From beginners to advanced, find your challenge in North Dakota at the Northern Heights Rock Gym in Grand Forks, Schlossman YMCA in Fargo, Minot Family YMCA and West River Community Center in Dickinson.
7. To the extreme
If you are into the extremes this winter, consider gearing up for the Iceman Triathlon in Grand Forks. Can you mountain bike in North Dakota during the winter? Yes, you can and especially this winter! Test your skills at the Snowflakes to Sprockets downhill bike race at Huff Hills Ski Area in Mandan or on one of the many mountain bike trails throughout the state.
These are just a few non-traditional ideas to enjoy winter in North Dakota, while staying fit and active. For more information, go to NDtourism.com or phone 800-435-5663 or 701-328-2525.
Time-honored traditions are part of our culture. They are reminders of who we are and what makes us unique as a state; as a people. Keep it simple this holiday season by shopping close to home and spending quality time with the family. Choose a home-grown gift made by local artisans or attend one of the many events happening across the state. Take a moment to remember and honor those who have served in the military at a Veterans Day event near you. Here are a few options to check out, or contact North Dakota Tourism for additional ideas at www.ndtourism.com or call 800-435-5663 or 701-328-2525
1. Homemade North Dakota … it’s tradition
November is when people begin looking for the perfect Christmas gift. It’s a great time to load up the family and search out that one-of-a-kind present created by neighbors at a regional arts and crafts show. Check out the Big One Arts and Crafts shows in Minot and Bismarck and Pride of Dakota shows at Grand Forks, Minot, Fargo and Bismarck. Or if you are still seeking that special gift with North Dakota flare, shop on-line at www.shopndtourism.com North Dakota Legendary store.
2. The hunting tradition
Hunting is a great bonding experience for North Dakota families. In many households, it is customary that kids and dads treat the deer season opener as a holiday and disappear into the countryside in search of that dream whitetail or muley. This year, making memories began on November 3. And if you feel you’ve got a winner, be sure to enter it into the Big Buck Contest in Linton.
3. Honor our Veterans
North Dakotans are proud of their veterans. Celebrate the homegrown heroes at one of the many Veterans’ Day events around the state on November 11. Remember the contributions of those from World War II at the opening of North Dakotans in World War II Aviation at the Taube Museum in Minot, or gather at the North Dakota Heritage Center at 11 a.m. to witness the lighting of the memorial. Local communities also host events to honor their veterans.
4. Start a new tradition with the kids
Adults may see this as a learning experience but it’s really just plain old fun for the kids. A variety of learning-based activities catering to youngsters include zoo activities, arts and even Santa Claus. Make sure you check out http://www.dakotazoo.org Animal Ed-Venture at Bismarck’s Dakota Zoo, www.fargoparks.com/yprog_art.html Awesome Art Afternoons in Fargo, or make a clay masterpiece at http://grandforks.culturepulse.org/org/detail/373 Muddy Waters Clay Center in Grand Forks.
5. Shopping: a time-honored tradition
It might actually begin on Black Friday but there is something to be said about an afternoon with friends and family at the local mall or window shopping along Main Street in your hometown. Several communities have scheduled events to showcase what “downtown” has to offer. Dickinson will have a Ladies Night Out shopping just for the girls. Food and fun are on tap at the Holiday Shopping Celebration in Mandan, 1st Thursdays in Bismarck and a Day of Shopping with local vendors at the Fargo-Moorhead Community Theatre.
6. Thankful for traditions
Turkey, dressing, cranberries and football. It is a tradition to give thanks in November and after you’ve had your fill of food, football and family, step back in time at the Dickens Village Festival in Garrison where the entire community steps into character for this time-honored classic. Continue the holiday spirit with Christmas in the Park in Bismarck and Grand Forks, Santa Village in Fargo and Christmas at Carroll House in Fullerton.
7. Traditional fitness
We all love the traditional foods of fall but there is a way to enjoy both eating and maintaining your health this season in North Dakota. For yourself and those active relatives, you might participate in the annual Turkey Trot Run/Walk in Bismarck or set your own course at the Greenway in Grand Forks. If a nature trail is more your style, check out some of the great hiking opportunities at North Dakota state parks.
8. Parades of Lights
Grab a cup of hot chocolate and join your friends at a cool nighttime parade, where every entry is beautifully decorated with colorful holiday lights. In eastern North Dakota, you can enjoy the Holiday of Lights parade in Fargo, Hometown Holidays in Lisbon, Santa Parade in Cavalier, Holiday Dazzle on Main in Jamestown and the Winter Wonderland of Lights in Casselton. If the west is where you’ll be this holiday season, catch lighted parades in Garrison, Bismarck, Hettinger, Ashley and Dickinson.
North Dakota is a hot spot for international travelers
The North Dakota Tourism Division has seen “smashing success” at international travel shows this year, with interest in adventure and western attractions at an all-time high, according to Fred Walker, International Travel Marketing Director. Since January, Walker has attended international travel shows in Norway, Sweden, Iceland, Germany, Casper, Wyo., Las Vegas, and, for the first time, Australia.
This was the first time representatives from outside the coastal United States attended the Discover America Australian Expo in Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne. Walker stated that he, along with representatives from Montana and Wyoming, were “mobbed for information.”
The Australia show was an intense showcase of destinations directed at travel agents across eastern Australia. There were 976 agents in attendance along with 41 travel media and 30 tour operators during the 4 days. “Encouraging international travel is an important part of our marketing efforts,” says Tourism Division Director Sara Otte Coleman, “This year we see the entire United States selling well from an international destination perspective, and our North Dakota numbers were the best of any year to date.”
Another highlight of the international marketing show efforts was the 31 meetings Walker attended with interested industry representatives at ITB Berlin. This travel and trade show is the world’s largest and North Dakota was exposed to more than 11,000 trade visitors and 177,000 consumers during the show.
BISMARCK
The Dakota Zoo - Well worth a visit!
The Dakota Zoo, home to more than 600 different animals, is a great place to visit -- and, to see bison, mountain lions, prairie dogs, and other native animals all in one location. It's a place for all ages, from the Land O'Lakes Ice Cream Parlor, a play area, and the Antler Trading Post. Board one of the Leach Express and Tribune Express trains for a real treat, and don't forget your camera because the animals are waiting to pose for you! Admission is reasonable with children under two entering free of charge, kids 2-12 are $3.50, and 13 and up are $6.50. During winter months the rates are reduced.
Located in Bismarck, (701) 223-7543. Summer hours (April 23 to September 28) for the zoo are 10 am to 7 pm daily, except when there's inclement weather and the zoo is closed.. Grounds close at 7:30 pm. From June 4 to August 20 hours are until 8:00pm, while winter hours from October until April 24 are from 1 pm until 5 pm on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.
GRAND FORKS
Grand Forks Art Fest
June 9-10, 2012; Art and Wine Walks, every third Saturday June through August; Catfish Days, July 28-29, 2012; and Farmer’s Markets every
Saturday June through September.
For more information on Grand Forks or special events, please contact the Greater Grand Forks Convention and Visitors Bureau at 701-746-0444 or e-mail info@visitgrandforks.com