Minnesota's extensive list of events and festivals means there is always a reason for celebrating! County fairs, outdoor concerts, lake side festivities and many historical events in Minnesota make for a long list of things to do. One of the most popular events in Minnesota by far is the Minnesota State Fair where livestock competitions, pageants, delicious food and many activities are available for fair-goers.

Some of the more unusual activities you might come across while attending the many festivities in the state is an icehouse parade, wrestling in mashed potatoes and bowling with frozen turkeys! Many Minnesota events definitely have a wild side to them!

One of the best known historical events in Minnesota is the Renaissance Festival in Shakopee. With its history dating back almost four decades, it's one of the oldest continuing events in the state. Thousands of visitors from across the country attend to enjoy more then 700 performers , 275 artisans and more 120 food stands that all add to the alchemy.

Shopping at the Renaissance Festival reveals treasures like hand-blown glass, pottery, jewelry, paintings and more. Hosts at the festival are clad in 16-century outfits to further your experience in the timeless village. Other historical events in Minnesota include the Mud River Music Fest in Aitkin, near Duluth. The celebration is called a "living-history festival" and explores music from the 1790s through the 1890s.

Minnesota Scottish events include the Minnesota Scottish Fair and Highland Games. The famous festival takes place in Farmington, south of Minneapolis and St Paul, at the Dakota County Fairgrounds. This Minnesota Scottish events competitions include a tug of war, piping, a caber toss, hammer throw and highland dancing.

Minnesota events also include the revered Festival of Nations which feature almost 100 different cultures and backgrounds all gathered together in a huge celebration. The history of the festival dates back to 1932 when it was first established. Diverse cultures are all celebrated through many activities, live shows and delicious food in downtown St Paul.

The dance competition highlight inherent Scottish culture through the Highland Fling, Sword Dance and the Seann Triobhas. Traditional Scottish food is available during the festival and features tasty delights such as scotch eggs, meat pies, haggis and deep-fried cheese curds. This crowd pleasing Minnesota Scottish events one of the most fun festivals and many true Scotsman from all around attend the gala.

The Minneapolis Aquatennial is one of the most well-loved of Minnesota events held by Lake Calhoun each year in July. Thirty eight exciting events happen over ten days and feature the country's biggest fireworks show. Tour massive sand castles, take a swim or grab some food and chow down.

Minnesota events include WeFest, a three day country music festival that kicks off in the Detroit Lakes each year in August. It's one of the largest country festivals in the world and features live music, beer, food, camping and a whole lot of country music lovers!

The City Pages Beer Festival is another of the favorite events in Minnesota that happens in June in St Paul on Hennepin Avenue. More then 100 quality beers are featured for sampling along with a ton of great live music, food and other activities. With the many Minnesota events happening all through the year you'll definitely find your own reasons to celebrate! Check out the calender of events in the city you're visiting and head over to enjoy one of the excellent community celebrations for good times, great food and fantastic civic spirit!