There are signs of spring throughout Alexandria. Golfers are back on the courses, stretching their legs and warming up their swings, pelicans are back on Lake Winona, and the occasional boat can be spotted on the lakes. Cyclists are cruising the Central Lakes Trail, patios are getting prepped, and downtown shop windows feature shorts, skirts, and other fun warm weather fashions.
May in Alexandria is always an exciting time as the lakes become bustling with boats, but there are also other activities and events throughout the city announcing the arrival of spring and previewing the plethora of summertime festivities. While the Governor’s Fishing Opener is taking place in Crosslake, Alexandria’s Downtown Merchants will be celebrating spring with their annual Catch a Deal event on May 9th and 10th, where shoppers can enjoy some deep discounts on winter apparel and merchandise and shop all of the season’s new arrivals.
The Legacy of the Lakes Museum opens on May 16th with a new exhibit that will delight visitors of all ages. If you haven’t visited the museum before, this is the perfect time to explore the history of watercraft, see beautiful and unique boats, and shop new arrivals at the museum’s gift shop.
May 24th marks the opening day of the Farmers’ Market and Saturday Art Market at Big Ole Park. From honey to baked goods and handknit items to fruits and vegetables, you will find a variety of locally grown, produced, and made goods while enjoying live music. Bike downtown on the Central Lakes Trail or drive down and park, then spend the day walking and shopping throughout downtown. The Runestone Museum is conveniently located across the street from the park and plenty of restaurants are within walking distance, including The Depot Smokehouse & Tavern and Copper Trail Brewing Company & 205 Grill.
Speaking of Copper Trail, on May 25, the Hillbilly Triathlon, sponsored by the brewery and Smokin’ Brews & ‘Ques returns to Alexandria. Teams of two will compete in a 5-stand and trap shooting contest at Alexandria Shooting Park, a 9-hole golf scramble at Nordic Trails Golf Course, and end the event with a parking lot giant beer pong tournament at the brewery.
With so much to see and do in Alexandria in May, there’s no time like the present to plan a visit.
