Minneopa is one of 12 state parks offering free outdoor activities Thursday for anyone who wants a healthy way to start off the new year.
First Day Hikes is an annual Minnesota state park promotion that’s part of a nationwide effort to connect people to the outdoors. An initiative spearheaded by the America’s State Parks organization, hiking is offered as a way to exercise while connecting with nature.
The Minneopa hike starts 1 p.m. from the group camp parking lot, which is 5 miles west of Mankato. This hike covers about 2 miles on mostly flat terrain. Participants are encouraged to dress warmly and wear sturdy, comfortable boots.
Blue Mounds and Fort Snelling are among several other state parks also offering First Day Hikes. Some of the hikes will be for snowshoers.
For more information, go to: mndnr.gov/firstdayhike.
Daily vehicle permits cost $7 per day and annual vehicle permits cost $35. Park visitors may purchase permits online at: mndnr.gov/permit or purchase permits in person during open hours at park ranger stations.
Holiday Lights season ends Wednesday
This season’s Kiwanis Holiday Lights concludes New Year’s Eve.
The drive-thru, walk-thru evening event at Mankato’s Sibley Park is an opportunity to view millions of outdoor displays decorated with millions of LED lights. Hours for the remaining season are 5-9 p.m. daily through Wednesday.
The annual celebration of holiday lights and fundraiser for emergency food pantries kicked off Nov. 28. Nonperishable food items and cash donations will be accepted in lieu of admission fees.
Mankato Kiwanis Club is host for the event. For more information, go to: kiwanisholidaylights.com.
Fundraiser for female vets set
An appreciation event for area women who served in the military is scheduled 2-7 p.m. Jan. 31 at Morison Ario-Strand VFW Post 950 in Mankato.
Hot Dish Festival III’s sponsors include Disabled American Veterans of Minnesota and AlphaMedia.
The festival will feature a hotdish contest, live music and a silent auction.
Contestants pay a $20 fee to enter a prepared hot dish in the 2 p.m. competition.
For more information about entering the contest or donating to the silent auction, text 507-345-5976.