Although the official day of summer isn’t until mid-June, as far as kids are concerned, it’s on. And there is plenty to look forward to during the warm months in Williston.
Key recurring family events over the summer include the Upper Missouri Valley Fair June 26-30 (www.umvf.com) and Summer Nights on Main (find the Williston Downtowners on Facebook for a complete schedule), starting July 2 and ending August 22. The Rockin’ Ribfest is scheduled for July 6 (www.willistonchamber.com) and the North Dakota Chokecherry Festival takes place August 9-10 (www.visitwilliston.com). Families who enjoy a good obstacle run shouldn’t miss the Bakken X Trek on August 17. This 5k off trail run can be conquered individually, in teams, or as a family. The event has also developed a 1 mile obstacle course just for kids which has become very popular (www.bakkenxtrek.com).
The Fort Union Rendezvous is an annual tradition in NW North Dakota, taking place about 25 miles SW of Williston. Guests get a glimpse of what life was like at the trading post during the busy trade season (www.nps.gov/fous). Over 100 re-enactors from across the country and Canada assemble at the fort to demonstrate traditional skills needed in the area in the mid-19th century. Thursday is Kids Day, with activities geared specifically with children in mind, but every day at the Rendezvous is family friendly. Runners enjoy the annual Rendezvous Run and should check out the new half marathon option available this year.
Other history-oriented events this summer include the Fort Buford 6th Infantry Re-enactment July 20-21 (http://www.history.nd.gov/historicsites/buford/index.html), Fort Union Indian Arts Weekend and Northern Plains Oyate pow-wow August 3-4, and the Fort Union Last Bell Tours September 1-2.
Dirt track racing can be found at the Williston Basin Speedway all summer and Williston Downtowners Farmers Market starts July 13 on the Hedderichs lot, across the street from Bride to Be and Style Uncorked. Looking for great family activities all summer long? Check out all the youth programming at Lewis & Clark State Park on the weekends. There is something fun going on all summer long. You can find out more about these activities at each location’s respective Facebook pages.
September ushers in more great annual events, like the Dog Jog in Spring Lake Park on the 14th and Artfest on the 13th in Recreation Park, downtown. We will do another post for late summer to follow up with those, as well as some autumn Williston favorites. Check out our calendar for other events taking place in or around Williston in the upcoming months.