Annual Celebration Draws Enthusiastic Crowds with Unique Activities and Local Flavor.
Old-fashioned fun awaits in Barnesville, Minnesota, as the lowly spud takes center stage for the 33rd annual Potato Days Festival. Known as one of the best potato-producing areas in the country, Barnesville is proud to celebrate its potato heritage with two days of “spud”tacular excitement from August 23rd to 24th, 2024.
The festival offers a perfect weekend getaway for families, featuring a bushel of activities from sunrise to sunset. With roots dating back to the late 1930s, the Potato Days Festival combines traditional events with a modern twist. Attendees can participate in nostalgic activities like Potato Picking and Peeling Contests, alongside newer attractions such as the Miss Tater Tot Pageant and the specialized art of Mashed Potato Sculpturing.
In addition to a wild assortment of potato-themed contests, games, and displays, the festival boasts an “a-peeling” menu of potato favorites. The Norwegian influence is evident in the delectable offerings, including lefse, potato dumplings, potato sausage, baked potatoes, and potato pancakes. Participants are also invited to showcase their culinary talents in the National Lefse Cookoff and Potato Cookoff Competition.
According to Missie Goheen, the Executive Director of Potato Days, the festival has a rich history of bringing people together. “I think the rodeo is probably my newest favorite thing. I also enjoy the water fights, the street fair, and the mashed potato wrestling is always interesting to watch,” she shared. The event features a diverse menu, including crepes and other culinary delights, with entertainment planned for all ages.
One of the standout attractions is the Mashed Potato Wrestling, which has made a triumphant return after being a crowd favorite in previous years. “Mashed Potato wrestling is for good times and getting into the potatoes and bringing a friend to have a little bit of fun,” said Keil Jahr, Co-Head of Potato Wrestling. Participants eagerly lined up to dive into the sticky pool of mashed potatoes, creating a memorable and entertaining spectacle.
Rated as one of the best festivals in the country by US News and World Report, the Barnesville Potato Days Festival truly captures small-town America at its finest. Visitors from across the nation are drawn to the festival’s devotion to all things potato, with activities that include picking, peeling, frying, racing, baking, and, most importantly, enjoying the versatile vegetable.
As the festival continues, attendees can expect even more activities and entertainment planned for Saturday. With its engaging events and local flavor, this festival is sure to create lasting memories for all who attend. One visit, and you’ll surely agree: “It’s a smashing good time!”
