Finn News: Summer Is Almost 'Finnished'

There’s only one month of summer left, and some are probably happy while others are sad to see summer coming to a close. But we have sisu and we do what we must do! For some, it’s working on harvesting the garden and finishing up outdoor projects. Others are enjoying the last of the swimming days and trying to stay cool in the August heat. Maybe you are in the group planning the last summer trip before school starts and busy fall schedules begin again. Or maybe, like me, you are doing a combination of all of them!

Speaking of schedules ... there aren’t many planned events in August in the Northland. Most everyone is too busy trying to extract the last bit of summer fun and work before heading back to meetings and activities. But, here’s a few for you.

On Saturday, Aug. 10, head up to Finland (Minnesota, of course!) for the annual Tori Music Festival. Starting at 9 a.m., you can find all kinds of interesting things to buy! (In case you didn’t know, “tori” in Finnish means “open marketplace.”) The event is sponsored by, and held at, the Finland Minnesota Historical Society Heritage Site, 5653 County Road 6, Finland. Come and browse to see what local artists and craftsmen are demonstrating and selling. You’ll find demonstrations in blacksmithing, fiber arts, basket making, spoon carving, candle making, broom making, and other crafts. You can purchase items from these vendors and others, including knives, apparel, books, cards, jewelry, wooden boxes, photography, handwoven rugs, flowers and plants. Oh, don’t forget to enjoy the music, too!

While you are there, plan to check out the heritage site also. On location are a blacksmith shop, school, homestead, museum, and sauna, all depicting the early Finnish settlement lifestyle of this area. The gift shop and grounds are open to the public all summer, and all they ask is a donation. If you can’t get to the Tori Music Festival, the Heritage Site will be open until Sept. 30. It’s a great place to visit! (For more information, call 218-353-7380.)

The Ladies of Kaleva Aallottaren Tupa No. 15, Duluth, will meet for a potluck dinner and informal meeting on Monday, Aug. 12 starting at 6 p.m. at Sampo Beach on Little Grand Lake in Saginaw. The meeting will be a meet-and-greet for prospective new members. So if you have a relative, friend, or neighbor who is interested in joining the Ladies of Kaleva, bring them along to this meeting! And if you are interested in joining the group, but don’t know anyone in the group to “sponsor” you, just come to this meeting. The Ladies would love to meet you and tell you what the group is all about.

Enjoy the last of the carefree summer days!