Monday, October 20, 2014

Aitkin, MN Presents “World Famous Fish House Parade"


Downtown Aitkin will soon be clearing a path down its main streets to make way for its highly anticipated 24th Annual “World Famous Fish House Parade,” being presented by the Aitkin  Area Chamber of Commerce on Friday, Nov. 28 at 1 p.m. CT.

Each year Aitkin-ites and others from around the tri-state area bundle up in warm winter clothing and come out in droves to watch the moving display of ice fishing houses that eventually make their way up to over 300 of the state’s 10,000 lakes.

This year the parade’s Grand Marshall is award-winning outdoorsman and television producer Ron Schara, founder of Ron Schara Productions.  His show, MINNESOTA BOUND, airs on Minnesota KARE-TV 11, a Gannett property.

The “World Famous Fish House Parade” is held every Black Friday, as a way for Minnesotans to ring in the holiday season with a day of food, joyous fun and festivities.
 
The parade is open to anyone who would like to enter a float with an ice fishing theme.

There are many great activities in which to participate during the day, including taking advantage of sales throughout town at participating retail establishments, and dining out at some of Downtown Aitkin’s charming restaurants.

There will also be an arts and crafts show held at the old Brandl Motors Building, with some crafts also being featured at the historic Butler Building (301 Minnesota Avenue North) from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The show will feature specialty jams and jellies, mittens and scarves, and a full range of beautiful handmade crafts.

Santa and Mrs. Claus will also stop by between 11 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. to make a special visit.

The United Methodist Church will also host a Spaghetti Feed from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Starting at 3 p.m., The Landing will be serving a special Soup Dinner, featuring Prime Rib and Vegetable Soup, until it’s all gone.

The end of the parade will feature the “Super Discount Ball Drop,” when the last float will be shooting the multicolored ping pong balls into the crowd, giving attendees a chance to win different discounts at participating Aitkin businesses.

For more information on the “World Famous Fish House Parade,” visit the Aitkin Chamber of Commerce’s official website, www.aitkin.com, call (218) 927-2316, or email upnorth@aitkin.com.

SIDEBAR
From 12 to 3 p.m., the Aitkin Butler Building will be hosting a special VIP Fish House reception, giving partygoers the opportunity to enjoy the parade and the day’s festivities from the warmth of its historic Opera House. Instead of having to save a spot on the curb, guests will get a premium bird’s eye view as the annual parade passes directly in front of the building on Minnesota Avenue.

There will be a complete hot and cold buffet, as well as a cash bar featuring an array of Minnesota craft beers, wines and a full range of liquor. There will also be live entertainment. Tickets are $35 per person, and $10 per child. To purchase tickets, go to www.tempotickets.com/fishhouse or call Sylvia Allen at (218) 678-2441. Attendance is limited to 100 people, so don’t miss out on reserving your spot now!

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