If you were out and about in Two Harbors on Saturday, February 8th, you might have noticed it was a bit furrier out there than usual. While stopping for gas in town, I spotted a woman wearing fur chaps. As I made my way toward 1st Avenue, where most Winter Frolic activities were taking place, I couldn’t help but notice people sporting fur hats and mittens heading toward the festivities.
No doubt, many of the fur sporting folks stopped by the Landing Sports Bar to join the Fur Party, where prizes were awarded for best dressed, most hilarious, and most creative fur creations. The bar also hosted a Winter Frolic Bean Bag Tournament during the community gathering. It was a tough competition, but Team Holden came out on top, followed by Jimmy & Tony, and Timmmmmys.
These were just a few highlights of the fun that filled the weekend at the Two Harbors Winter Frolic, a jam-packed event offering activities for all ages.
As I parked and walked past the Moose Lodge, I couldn’t help but notice the large bonfire in the yard. After all, I wasn’t wearing furs, and it was a bit chilly—maybe I’d loop back after checking out the other festivities. I had missed the pancake breakfast at the Moose Lodge earlier and the chance to explore the Vendor Fair, which featured unique treasures and local crafts.
As the firetruck pulled away from the party, I realized I’d likely missed the Fireman Kids Races hosted by the Two Harbors Fire Department. However, I didn’t miss the kids’ excitement and energy, as next up were some epic Tug of War battles. When an adult team couldn’t be found and had to be summoned from inside the American Legion, the kids lined up for an impromptu kids vs. adults tug. It wasn’t easy, but the adults eventually pulled out a win.
Tug of War was followed by more exciting races, including the Dash for Cash, Outhouse Races, and Keg Races down the main avenue of the festivities. In between, Madeira Bistro sponsored the Frozen Fish Toss, where participants had a chance to win cash prizes and gift cards.
There was so much to see and do, including a photo scavenger hunt, Kids Bingo at the Moose Lodge, Kids Karaoke at the Harbor Rail Pub, a pizza buffet at Do North Pizza, and the Medallion Hunt. Congratulations to Cameron and Logan Mayfield for finding the medallion and winning the $100 prize from Dairy Queen!
The Tipsy Mosquito Wine and Spirit Room celebrated its second year in operation during the Frolic, offering free prosecco wine and great deals on food and drinks for patrons.
The American Legion had a special guest—Bigfoot, who was there for photo ops. Meanwhile, the Silver Bay French Club was in the kitchen serving up food, coffee, and selling candy bars to raise money for their trip to France. I don’t think Bigfoot is planning on attending the trip, yeti just might.
The previous evening, with Sound Check on stage, the American Legion hosted a frozen t-shirt contest—though it probably isn’t what you’re imagining. Check out their Facebook page to confirm your suspicions!
On Saturday, Frolickers had plenty of music to keep them moving. The Two Harbors Ukulele Group, affectionately known as THUG, played at Castle Danger Brewery. Ricky Sundstrum brought his tunes to the Moose Lodge, while the Delicious Blues Band brought their bluesy vibes to the Harbor Rail Pub. Derrick & Phil performed at the American Legion.
The Winter Frolic also featured fireworks while the Depot offered cocoa and cookies to keep everyone warmed up.
As I frolicked my way home, I paused near a small crowd gathered around what looked like a stump. I navigated through and quickly realized a fierce game of skill was about to unfold between two young competitors. A sign nearby explained the rules of the game— Hammerschlagen.
As you can probably guess, Hammerschlagen is a German game that involves a hammer. The objective is simple: drive your nail flush into a block or beam of wood. Traditionally, players take turns trying to get their nail in faster than their competitor. In a version known as ‘Stump,’ the goal is to be the last person in the group to get your nail flush against the stump.
The Two Harbors Winter Frolic committee and sponsors sure hit the nail on the head this year and I have not hit on all the event offered. After the long month of January, it was a nice celebration to bring the community together and invite visitors to enjoy some of what winter on the North Shore has to offer.
Photos by Sarah Simon
