International Woodcarvers Festival to be held Aug. 2-3 at Lake Bronson State Park (July 22, 2008)
Whether a skilled woodcarver, a would-be whittler or someone who appreciates this creative art form, the place to be on Aug. 2-3 is the International Woodcarvers Festival at Lake Bronson State Park. The annual event, which is open to the public, includes a judged competition and public viewing of woodcarvings, a whittling event, craft show, carnival booths, food concessions and entertainment.
Woodcarvers from around the world will compete for prizes, including a People’s Choice Award for the entry that receives the most votes from the public attending the event. Other awards include the Best of Show and Manager’s Award. Entries will be received from 7:30 to 8:30 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 2. Judging will be from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Entries will be on display for public viewing in the park visitor center from noon to 5 p.m. on Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday.
Park visitors can join in the whittling event Saturday from 1 to 3:30 p.m., try their luck at carnival games sponsored by the Lake Bronson Lion’s Club from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m., or browse and shop the craft show from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Following Saturday’s events, a steak fry will be held at the American Legion in the town of Lake Bronson from 5 to 8 p.m.
Festivities resume Sunday morning, with an inspirational message and music by Donnie and Kris Thorlacius at 10 a.m. in the park’s visitor center. Public viewing of the woodcarving entries, raffle drawings and a craft show will take place between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Live musical entertainment will begin at 1 p.m. The festival will conclude with a final awards ceremony at 4 p.m.
Lake Bronson State Park is located on State Highway 59, two miles east of Lake Bronson on County Road 28.
The event is sponsored by the Northwest Gateway Association, which encourages visitors to come for the entire weekend. Campsites still are available in the park. To reserve a site, call 1-866-85PARKS or go online at
www.stayatmnparks.com. For more information on festival events, contact Lake Bronson State Park at (218) 754-2200.
