One of Lake of the Wood’s finest neighbors is Birchdale, MN in Koochiching County.
This sweet little town is located approximately 25 miles east of Baudette on Hwy 11. Birchdale is the home of one of last and greatest one stop general store. Tourists and local clientele visit the store and are able to find anything from groceries to winter apparel and hardware. The store itself is a special icon in the area.
Another famous spot at Birchdale is Nelson Park right on the Rainy River. This beautiful location has great beauty, a boat launching area, great camp sights and picnic area. Another feature of the area is a artistic welding display of musical instruments. It is on Hwy 11 to the east of Birchdale. You’ll have to pay close attention as you travel so you don’t miss it. It was created by a local welder/artist in the Birchdale area to add to the uniqueness of this locality.
The whole weekend is a fundraiser for the Community Building operated by the River Valley Development Association (RVDA), an all non-paid volunteer non-profit organization.
First, on Friday July 16th Birchdale will have a Band & Burgers night outside in the Pavilion. Entry is $15.00 and that includes a burger basket. The headline band will be TIMBERLINE from the International Falls area.
This band lead by Delane Baumchen has toured for decades in the area and played numerous events, celebrations and gatherings. They have come out of retirement to do this one concert to support the Birchdale Community Building. Everyone are encouraged to come and also support the Community Building in Birchdale, listen to some great music and eat and good meal.
Saturday July 17th starts with a Flap-Jack breakfast from 7:00 am – 10:00 am. The Concession Stand will be open from 10:00 to 5:00 pm. A hearty Ham Dinner will be served between 12:00 pm and 1:30 pm.
Cost to attend is only $5.00 for the whole day Saturday.
There will be music all day starting at 9:45 am to 5:00 pm. The bands are; the Crowes, the Holte’s, The Alvin Anderson Show, the Ambush Jam Band, Holger Olesen, Rose Carlson, Sloughgrass and then DeLane and the Couch Riders.
The Koochiching County Historical Society will give a presentation about the area from 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm. You a do not want to miss this first ever History on Tap event in Birchdale, it will be fantastic. There are also historical pictures on display.
There will be a variety of vendors selling crafts and exciting products form 9:00 am to 5:00 pm around the grounds.
The first annual Birchdale Show & Shine car, motorbike and equipment show will happen between 1:00 pm and 2:00 pm. Awards will be given.
Throughout the day different free workshops and demonstrations will be happening. Kids Crafts, petting zoo, historical Washing Machine display by the Olson’s, Blacksmithing, farm equipment demonstrations, old-time sewing machine Art and a free Banjo workshop for anyone that want to pick up a new hobby. There will probably be other exciting things going on. Check out the Birchdale Jubilee Event on Facebook for an updated schedule. Then make your way to Birchdale.
Sunday July 18th there will be breakfast served. at the Community Building from 7:00 am to 10:00 am. Free entry. Then a non-denominational sing along church service led by Pastor Kris Geer in the Pavilion.
The RVDA appreciate all the support it has gotten over the years from the larger Birchdale Community and friends and hope that will continue this year with a great turnout.
Vendors, exhibitors and show & Shine participants are all welcome to come out and join the fun.
For specifics about vending contact Jill Hasbargen, Show & Shine contact Amber Peterson, Exhibitors with equipment contact Leland Nelson or contact event organizer Soren Olesen with any questions.
July 16, 17 & 18th at the Birchdale Jubilee will be a fantastic weekend.
For lodging availability contact: www.lakeofthewoodsmn.com/lodging
