After a day of exploring artist studios along the Minnesota River Valley, Meander goers can extend the fun into the evening with special events in three communities. The 2025 Meander Art Crawl runs October 3, 4 & 5 and will feature Party on Prentice Street in Granite Falls, the Monte Meet Up in Montevideo, and a concert, Light Through the Strings, in Madison. Meander Art Crawl information can be found at www.artsmeander.com.
On Friday evening, October 3 at 6 p.m., Granite Falls kicks off the weekend with Party on Prentice Street, a progressive celebration inspired by the new mural on the K.K. Berge Building. The night will feature Happy Hour on the historic footbridge, followed by food, drinks, art, and performances from young local musicians and actors. Tickets are $45 in advance, $50 at the door with limited space. You can get your tickets online at www.granitefallsarts.org/party-on-prentice.
Also on Friday, October 3 at 6 p.m., Montevideo hosts the Monte Meet Up, showcasing local foods, farmers’ market vendors, live music with Clark Matchems and friends, and community art with Montevideo Creatives. The event invites all to gather downtown for dining, dancing, and fellowship. Find more information on their Facebook event page: www.facebook.com/MonteMEET-UP2025.
This year on Saturday night, October 4 at 7 p.m., the Dawson-Boyd Arts Association event will be held in Madison at the Madison Mercantile. Light Through the Strings is a concert featuring harpist and vocalist Nikki Lemire alongside singer-songwriter Doyle Turner of White Earth Nation that will bring an evening of heartfelt, innovative music in an intimate setting. Admission is $25 for adults and $5 for students. Tickets are available at the door or in advance at www.dawsonboydartspresents.org or by calling the box office at 320-312-2311.
The Meander is organized by the Upper Minnesota Valley Regional Development Commission. Launched in 2004 by local artists to showcase regional talent and encourage economic growth, the Meander now draws more than 2,500 visitors each year to Chippewa, Big Stone, Swift, Yellow Medicine, and Lac qui Parle Counties. Its name comes from both the winding rivers of the region and the spirit of exploration—encouraging visitors to “meander” from studio to studio with family and friends.