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   The 30th Anniversary of the Northwoods Art and Book Festival had strong attendance despite current MNDot road construction and detours. The weather was rain free and a summer perfect day for enjoying music, food and drink vendors, featured artists and authors. Attendees and participants found the event to be organized, family friendly with lots of food and drink choices. Pies by Guys sold 75 pies by the slice made by Jeannette Dudley and the food trucks were a huge hit. 

   This year’s festival was a true community effort. Hackensack Mayor Bill Kennedy, a dedicated supporter, spent the entire day lending a hand wherever needed. Local nonprofits joined in to help make the day a success, while sixty-five talented artists showcased an impressive variety of high-quality works.

   This year’s award winners are the following:

  •  Best of Show - Bear Paw Paperworks - Bill Sumner

  •  2nd place - Wings of Wonder - Jim Ayers

  •  Most Creative Booth - Pretty Dirt Pottery - Kate Hammer

  •  2nd Place - Crazy Leaf Photo - Benjamin and Carrie Pogatshnik

  •  Spirit of the North - Little Birdie Buddies - Heather Boschke

  •  2nd - Kari Townsdin Art - Kari Townsdin

(L-R): Benjamin & Carrie Pogatshnik, Kari Townsdin, Kate Hammer, Heather Boschke, Bill Sumner and Jim Ayers. Photo by Jerry Ecklund Photography.

   The book arts section was brimming with eager book buyers. A raffle throughout the day of 30 donated books from authors was a huge success as well as selling canvas tote bags with the Northwoods Arts Council’s logo on it. Didn’t get your bag at the festival? Don’t miss out. These must-have tote bags will be on sale at the remaining Lakeside Concerts. Grab yours before they are gone. Author Laura Hern engaged the audience with an interactive and creative discussion on writing cozy mysteries from the perspective of a private investigator turned amateur sleuth. 

The Hackensack Lion Safari back by popular demand, was a huge hit with kids and adults alike. They were off and running in all directions, wearing pith helmets and binoculars following clues looking for Leo the Lion. Wonder Trex provided a wide variety of interactive play materials in the ball field. Volunteers Myra Damm and Chelsey Wellsted kept busy with the ever popular children’s face painting.

   Planning for 2026 is already underway with even more new additions and a promise of a  less complicated travel route with completed construction. The Northwoods Arts Council is passionate about bringing outstanding art and inspiring literature to our community, creating experiences everyone can enjoy. Mark your calendar for next year’s event August 8, 2026.

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