Thief River Falls, MN — [September 2025] — Advance Thief River and community partners are proud to announce the inaugural Welcome Week 2025, taking place September 12–19, 2025. This weeklong series of events is designed to celebrate community spirit, foster belonging, and create meaningful connections among residents, including longtime locals and newcomers.
“Welcome Week is about more than events—it’s about building a culture of connection,” said Michelle Landsverk, Executive Director of Advance Thief River. “We want everyone who calls Thief River Falls home to feel included, valued, and celebrated.”
A Full Week of Events
The Welcome Week schedule offers a variety of cultural, educational, and recreational activities for all ages. Highlights include:
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Passport to Local (Sept 12–13): Explore businesses across town for a chance to win up to $1,000 in local gift certificates and Chamber Bucks.
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Everybody’s Market & Northwest Brewfest (Sept 13): vendor show, music, and games at Floyd B. Olson Park
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Northwest Brewfest (Sept 13) For just $25, sample 25 different brews while soaking in live tunes by Big Mike & Billy Kezar, play games, and catch up with good company at Legacy Event Center.
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Cooking Classes (Sept 15 & 16): Learn and share recipes that bring people together at a cooking class hosted by Community Ed. Learn how to make “Frijoes Puercos & Papas Al Mexinanas” on Sept 15 and Egg rolls on Sept 17.
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Outdoor Game Night (Sept 16): Join fellow community members at Hartz Park for outdoor games and fresh grilled burgers and hotdogs cooked up by Thief River Falls Rotary Club members. Register for a chance to win one of two round trip tickets on Denver Air!
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Industry Tours (Sept 17): Exclusive behind-the-scenes visits at one or both of the community’s iconic businesses, DigiKey and Arctic Cat.
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Spanish Language Workshop (Sept 18): Join us for a free, one-hour community class to learn basic Spanish words and phrases used in everyday conversation. Perfect for beginners–no experience needed!
- Music in the Park with Corey Medina and Brothers (Sept 18): Gather at the gazebo in Floyd B. Olson Park to experience this amazing blues rock band.
Building Community Connections
Welcome Week is part of a growing national movement that encourages communities to celebrate cultural diversity. By blending local traditions with new experiences, the event strengthens Thief River Falls’ identity as a welcoming place to live, work, and visit.
“From live music to factory tours, we’re showcasing everything that makes Thief River Falls unique,” said Landsverk. “At the same time, we’re opening doors for new neighbors to engage, learn, and belong.”
Get Involved
All events are open to the public, with most offered free of charge. Residents are encouraged to bring family and friends, invite newcomers, and participate in as many activities as possible. For full event details including event times and locations, visit advancethiefriver.com/welcome.
