Fall is the perfect time to explore the Upper Minnesota River Valley, and the Meander Art Crawl offers a unique way to experience the region. Returning October 2–4, the three-day, self-guided art crawl invites visitors to travel from studio to studio across Big Stone, Swift, Lac qui Parle, Yellow Medicine, and Chippewa counties, discovering local artwork, creative spaces, and communities along the way. This year’s Meander features 40 talented artists, with studios open Friday, October 2 from 12–6 p.m., Saturday, October 3 from 9 a.m.–6 p.m., and Sunday, October 4 from 9 a.m.–4 p.m.
The 2026 featured Meander artist is Granite Falls woodworker Joe Hauger. Hauger’s hand-carved piece, “Comfort Bird, Spoon & Bowl,” is featured on this year’s Meander brochure cover. The piece combines traditional Nordic green-wood carving, known as “sloyd,” with a hand-carved olivewood bird inspired by traditional comfort birds. “What an honor and thrill to be the 2026 Meander featured artist! It was fun to design the artwork for this year’s event. I’m looking forward to seeing people meandering and showing them what I’ve been up to,” Hauger says.
The Meander is excited to welcome three new artists this year, each bringing their own unique style and creative perspective. Jordan Marrero will showcase his handmade stoneware at the Madison Mercantile, while Dorothy Rosemeier will bring her custom-dyed and eco-printed textiles to the Milan Community Center. Near Ortonville, Stephanie Folk will share her watercolor, acrylic, mixed media, soft pastel, and mosaic artwork at The Red Barn. Also new this year is the Emerging Artists stop at Java River Coffee Shop, which will feature a diverse group of artists in the early stages of their careers.
A complete artist list, studio locations, schedule, and digital brochure are available at artsmeander.com. Free printed brochures can be requested through the website or by calling 1-866-866-5432. For ongoing updates, follow the Meander on Facebook at facebook.com/MeanderArtCrawl.
The Meander is organized by the Upper Minnesota Valley Regional Development Commission. Founded in 2004 by local artists to showcase the area’s vibrant arts scene and support economic development, the Meander has grown into a signature fall event spanning five counties. Its name reflects both the winding Minnesota River and the spirit of the weekend, inviting attendees to meander from studio to studio with family and friends.