Spirit of the St. Croix Art Festival. Photo: Hudson Area Chamber Tourism Bureau
Fall is the season of the arts in the St. Croix Valley, as evidenced by the myriad fantastic local festivals.
Marine on St. Croix Art Fair
Sept. 21–22
With an outstanding reputation, the annual Marine Art Fair takes place in the picturesque downtown Marine on St. Croix during the peak season for fall foliage. The fair has welcomed more than 100 artists to show their work for over 40 years—including fine art, such as pottery, woodworking, photography and jewelry.
Bring the whole family, because this is a fair for the kids too! With children’s crafts, music, food and art, there’s bound to be a little something for everyone in this historic town. Additionally, proceeds benefit the Marine on St. Croix Fire and Rescue Department.
All ages. Free. 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
Downtown Marine on St. Croix, 121 Judd St., Marine on St. Croix, Minn.
651.433.3636;
marineonstcroix.org
Art Trolley Adventure Tour
Sept. 27
The St. Croix Valley officially welcomed the Art Trolley Adventure Tour a few short months ago—but you might recognize it from the Haunted History Trolley Tour or other tours that Stillwater offers. Discover the many kinds of art that the Valley offers. From privately meeting artists to touring historic mansions to seeing exclusive theater performances, there’s a little bit of everything.
On this tour, meet the owner of Judd Street Exchange, the newest art studio in Marine on St. Croix and exchange ideas with her and other artists. Next, sample handmade truffles and Valley wine at St. Croix Chocolate & Wine. Meet a local potter and visit a pottery shop, and end the tour at the Franconia Sculpture Park.
The Art Trolley Adventure Tour is partnered with ArtReach in St. Croix, and a percentage of ticket sales goes toward their mission in the St. Croix Valley.
All ages. $79 for adults. 10 a.m.–3 p.m.
Meet at the Stillwater Trolley Stand, 400 Nelson St. S., Stillwater, Minn.
651.280.7299
mywahooadventures.com
Franconia Art and Artists Celebration
Sept. 28
Head over to Franconia Sculpture Park for this full-day family arts program to experience art and music in a multifaceted way. Take a free guided exhibition tour to gaze at the 40+ new sculptures created by Franconia’s 2018 artists or enjoy hands-on art-making activities. Plus, enjoy live music all day—performances by Corey Medina & Brothers, Jaeden James & The Hunger, Retro Soul & the Westside Horns featuring Big Mike and more.
The celebration serves as the official opening reception for the new sculptures created in 2018. Experience the raw creativity of Franconia, including iron castings to 45-foot-tall sculptures to earth installations.
All ages. Free, parking $5. 11 a.m.–7 p.m.
Franconia Sculpture Park, 29836 St. Croix Trail, Schafer, Minn.
franconia.org
Spirit of the St. Croix Art Festival
Sept. 28–29
Celebrate the beautiful historic town of Hudson at this two-day art festival. More than 90 artists gather in Lakefront Park to celebrate the uniqueness of the St. Croix River Valley arts—local and regional artists are brought together by the Phipps Center for the Arts.
Fan-favorite Artist Village will be open both days and hosts the top artists and musicians, showcasing their products and playing in the bandshell. Be sure to come hungry—there’s plenty of food and beverages served that you won’t want to miss. For the cherry on top, enjoy live entertainment and “The Art of” demonstrations while enjoying local artists, businesses, treats and more.
All ages. Free. Sat. 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Sun.10 a.m.–4 p.m.
Lakefront Park, First & Walnut Street, Hudson, Wis.
715.386.8411
travelwisconsin.com
Art in the Park
Sept. 28–29
This two-day fine arts and traditional craft fair in Afton features over 90 artists, and showcases fine arts, pottery, woodwork, jewelry, photography, sculpture and more. You’ll be able to meet the artists and even see how some of them create their work. Getting a bite to eat isn’t a problem—there’s a wine and beer garden, plus local Afton restaurants are open for business.
On Saturday, Kyle Koliha will dazzle the audience with folk music and Patchouli! transports the audience to Spain with a nuevo-flamenco sound on Sunday. With great food and live music, you’ll spend an enjoyable evening in the St. Croix Valley.
All ages. Free. Sat. 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
Town Square Park, Afton, Minn.
aftonartfair.com
Rivertown Fall Art Festival
Oct. 5–6
For over 30 years, Stillwater has welcomed more than 10,000 people from across the Midwest at the annual Rivertown Fall Art Festival. This astounding event features high-end artwork, including custom jewelry, pottery, hand-blown glass, paintings, woodwork and more. There’s plenty to do on top of shopping around, viewing the art and eating wonderful food—be sure to also relax on the grass, listen to live music or enjoy the beer and wine tent.
Make a weekend out of the festival by enjoying all that Stillwater has to offer. Stay in one of its beautiful hotels, enjoy the local eats and don’t miss out on the stunning views of the St. Croix River.
All ages. Free.
Lowell Park, 201 Water St. N., Stillwater, Minn.
651.439.4001
greaterstillwaterchamber.com
