Happy July, everyone! The warm temps and the seventh month on the calendar tell us that summer is definitely here. But, as Minnesotans, we know we can’t waste any time when it comes to enjoying summer because before you know it, frost warnings will creep into the weather forecast.
I’ve been busy at both work and play the last month. I’m incredibly excited to announce the release of our new Glue Tabs! Believe me, PDR guys, you need these. Check them out at Dent Reaper, and let me know if you’ve got any questions.
You’ll hear more about this next month, but from August 26th through the 29th, you’ll find me in Sin City at the MTE convention in Vegas.
So, before we find ourselves talking about snow again, hop into your car and enjoy some of the finer things in life, say maybe, wine and music.
Outdoor music festivals coming up:
With various COVID-19 restrictions lifted or at least relaxed, we now find that gathering outdoors in relatively large numbers to listen to music again becomes possible. And, it doesn’t matter if you love Classical, Country, Rock, Jazz, or something more Avant guard. Minnesota’s music scene provides something for just about everyone. Check out a few of these happenings:
Lake Front Music Festival in Prior Lake- This two-day festival on July 9th and 10th will please the old rockers in the crowd as well as those looking for something a bit mellower.
July 9th offers Cheap Trick and Styx on the lineup.
July 10th Noah Guthrie and Jake Owens take the stage.
Lowertown Blues and Funk Festival occurs in St. Paul at Dual City Brewing on July 10th and one more event in August.
Bands on the Boulevard takes place on Kellogg Boulevard in St Paul as part of the Minnesota History Society’s entertainment offerings. Here you’ll find a pretty eclectic lineup throughout the coming weeks.
If you’re feeling a bit more highbrow, the beautiful setting of Gibbs Farm in Falcon Heights hosts the Minnesota Sinfonia Orchestra on July 23rd. The concert starts at seven, but they suggest you get there by six and bring a picnic.
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Aster Café in Northeast Minneapolis offers a variety of musical acts in a pleasant but very unpretentious setting. A place inside or close to the entrance on the patio will enable you to enjoy the music and the food.
Wineries where you want to sit outside:
We’ve talked about wineries before in this blog so, I won’t go on and on. But, this time of year represents the perfect time of year to enjoy your vino amongst the ideal setting of a vineyard. I can’t say enough about taking a trip to Villa Belleza in Pepin, Wisconsin, for the most scenic drive. While you’re in the area, stop at Maiden Rock for apples and hard cider and Stockholm for pie.
Check out this link for other Minnesota and Wisconsin winery ideas.
If you want to stay close to the Twin Cities, AxeBridge in downtown Minneapolis brings in great wines from vineyards in Waconia, and they offer indoor and outdoor seating. They also feature Mike Bustin offering up some low-key music as you do a tasting or enjoy wine with your dinner.
How about some wine and music?
And, hey, if you’re looking for a great setting to enjoy music and wine, Sovereign Estates Winery in Waconia offers an excellent summer jazz series and a pretty impressive wine list. Check them out on July 4th for a unique fireworks experience. On August 14th, they’re doing a Tony Bennett tribute.
And, of course, wherever you go, we’re here at Gray Duck Dent to make sure you travel in style in your dent-free vehicle. Whether your car needs attention before or after your summer outings, contact me here to set an appointment or for a free estimate.
