May 01 Thursday
“The Art of Making Do: Folk Culture and Heritage of Germans From Russia” is now on exhibit at the North Dakota Heritage Center & State Museum in Bismarck.
This exhibition, showcasing the ingenuity and resilience of German Russian immigrants through their folk culture and heritage, is a partnership of the Tri-County Tourism Alliance and the State Historical Society of North Dakota. “The German Russian immigrants left an indelible mark on North Dakota and our current world,” said Bill Peterson, director of the State Historical Society of North Dakota. “We all recognize the importance of that community and the lessons they have left us if we just take the time to look.”
Before sustainability practices like repurposing, reusing, and recycling became widespread, resourceful German Russian immigrants relied on these techniques to build new lives on the prairie. “The Art of Making Do” highlights how these homesteaders transformed their surroundings through traditional skills brought from the old country, crafting textiles, embroidery, woodcarvings, and ironwork that shaped their homes and communities.
While many early folk art pieces have been lost, the traditions, trades, and skills embodied by German Russian immigrants continue to thrive. Enjoy historical and contemporary folk art and metalwork from Logan, McIntosh, and Emmons counties, and the State Historical Society collections. The exhibit will remain on view through September 2025.
The ND Heritage Center & State Museum is open Monday-Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday-Sunday, from 10 a.m.to 5 p.m. Admission is free. Find upcoming events at history.nd.gov/events.
May 02 Friday
May 03 Saturday
The Dacotah Mandan Lions is hosting a "Come See What We Do" event for the community on Saturday, May 3 from 1 pm to 4 pm. at Midway Lanes in Mandan! Free bowling for the kids, door prizes, free sloppy joes and trimmings, and live music by Chuck Suchy! Come visit, bowl and explore all the wonderful community service opportunities that the Dacotah Mandan Lions has to offer! We would love to have you join us!
The Timeless Traditions Workshop is a hands-on, one hour program held once a month, designed for children and beginner adults eager to explore the practical skills of the 19th-century frontier. Each session introduces a new skill, such as embroidery, quilting, butter-making, leatherworking, drop spindling, 3 Sisters gardening, soapstone carving/whittling (child safe version), dried herb caches, basket weaving, flint knapping, Tipi set up, ink making, paper making/journaling, rag rugs, tin lanterns, Mandan pottery, etc. Participants will learn the history behind the craft, observe a demonstration, and complete a small project using provided supplies.
The Minot Symphony Orchestra will present a screening of Walt Disney Animation Studio’s feature “The Lion King” with Hans Zimmer’s Oscar®-winning musical score performed live to the film.
*Special event ticket pricing
May 04 Sunday
BubblemaniaDate: Sunday, May 4, 2025Time: 11:00 AM - 1:00 PMLocation: Essentia Health Plaza at The Lights
Get ready for a bubbly good time at Bubblemania Family Fun Day on Sunday, May 4th! This exciting event is packed with bubble-filled fun for the whole family. From giant bubbles to bubble games, kids and adults alike will be amazed by the magic of bubbles in all shapes and sizes.
Activities include:Giant Bubble Displays – Watch as we create massive bubbles that will float and soar high into the sky!Bubble Stations – Try your hand at making your own bubbles with a variety of tools and techniques.Bubble Art – Create bubble-themed crafts to take home.Bubble Dance Party – Groove to some fun tunes as we dance with bubbles floating around!And Much More!!
This family-friendly event is the perfect way to spend the afternoon with loved ones while enjoying the wonders of bubbles. Be sure to bring your cameras – you won’t want to miss the photo ops!
Don't forget:Wear clothes that you don’t mind getting a little wet!Free bubble wands and other fun giveaways for attendees.Snacks and refreshments will be available for purchase.
Come join the bubble fun, and make Sunday, May 4th a day to remember for the whole family! We can’t wait to see you there!
May 05 Monday
May 06 Tuesday
May 07 Wednesday
Gear up for a fun and educational afternoon at our Bike Safety Rodeo on Wednesday, May 7! This free, family-friendly event is the perfect opportunity for kids to learn essential bike safety skills, get their bikes tuned up, and have some fun on two wheels. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or just getting started, we’ve got something for everyone.
Event Highlights Include:
Bike Registration – Get your bike officially registered for extra security and peace of mindHelmet Checks – Ensure your helmet is the right fit and in good condition for safe ridingSafe Riding Tips – Learn important safety tips and rules for biking on the road, so you can ride with confidenceObstacle Course – Put your skills to the test in a fun and challenging bike obstacle course designed to improve your control and maneuveringBike Wash – Give your bike a fresh, clean look with a free bike wash station!Bike Licensing – Complete your day by getting your bike licensed, making it easy to track in case it’s lost or stolenThis event is designed to make biking safer and more enjoyable for the whole family. Bring your bike, helmet, and a friend or two for an afternoon full of hands-on activities and helpful tips!
Don’t forget:
Must bring your own bikeWear comfortable clothes and shoes suitable for riding and bike activities.All ages are welcome, and bikes of all sizes will be accommodated.Come join us for a fun-filled day of safety, learning, and riding! We look forward to seeing you at the Bike Safety Rodeo!