Fall in North Dakota can be an elusive creature that, some years, barely shows up at all. Even though the beloved season is short, the Williston Convention and Visitors Bureau and Lewis and Clark State Park are taking full advantage of the prime weather and scenery along lake Sakakawea to have people come and enjoy the outdoors.
The second annual Flannel Fest will be held on Sept. 30 from 11-4 p.m. at Lewis and Clark State Park, a day of warm food, live music and activities for the whole family in celebration of the changing seasons.
“We had a great showing from the community (last year),” said Lewis and Clark Park Ranger Zach Audette. “And we look forward to providing even more this year and hopefully seeing more and more out to the park. The weather is looking fantastic for the weekend.”
Participants can take part in the soup bar and s’mores bar, while supplies last, or fill up at the food truck vendors. Beer gardens will also be on site. Activities will include ax throwing, hayrides, mini golf, geocaching, inflatables and a kids craft put on by a park interpreter. A fall photo opportunity station will be set up and a pumpkin carver will be showing off their skills all while live music plays by Jesse Veeder and Drive.
Lewis and Clark State Park is in its prime at this time of year — the leaves showing off their autumn hues in contrast to the blue waters of the lake lined by striated bluffs on the far side. Throughout the park are nearly six miles of groomed trails to be enjoyed hiking or biking, of which the park offers fat tire bike rentals. A frisbee golf course is also spread out across the park.
“A lot of kids' stuff has been added this year, but also plenty for the adults to take advantage of and enjoy as well,” Audette said. “With having a good forecast for weather … we are excited to get everyone out to the park and enjoy the day.”
Tickets for Flannel Fest 2023 are $15, with kids 12 and under being free and can be purchased online or the day of at the park. The fee for entering the state park has been waived in due to a donation by Northwest Communications Co-op of Ray, N.D. The park’s address is 4904 119th Rd NW in Epping, N.D.