Anoka, the "Halloween Capital of the World," is believed to have been the first city in the country to host a Halloween parade. Years later, the annual celebration continues with a month full of Halloween festivities. However, you don't have to wait for October to enjoy this northern Minnesota city. Anoka is a fun place to be any time of the year.
Lyric Arts Main Street Stage
Take your kids to see a live performance at the Lyric Arts Main Street Stage. The nonprofit theater puts on plays and musicals all year long. Kids must be at least 6 years old to attend full-length regular season shows. However, the theater also offers a series called "Mainly for Kids," which focuses on performances that kids as young as 2 years old can enjoy. Past productions have included "The Wizard of Oz" and "Cheaper by the Dozen." Your kids can also participate in workshops at the theater, where they'll learn the art of acting. Season subscriptions for up to eight shows are also available.
Lyric Arts Company of Anoka, Inc.
420 E. Main St.
Anoka, MN 55303
(763) 422-1838
http://www.lyricarts.org/index.html
Anoka County History Center
At the Anoka County History Center, your kids can learn about the history of the police, sheriff and fire departments in Anoka County. The Law and Ladders exhibit features original equipment used by firefighters and the police. Kids can learn what it's like to work in one of these departments through both serious and humorous anecdotes. The history center also features an exhibit focusing on the development of Anoka County, including little-known facts about the region. An exhibit exploring the history of musical theater and community choirs in the area is also available.
The history center offers a "Ghosts of Anoka" walking tour from early June through late October. The 90-minute tour covers 15 blocks of the city. Your kids can discover the facts and explore the legends behind mysterious occurrences in Anoka. Call (763) 421-0600 for tour reservations.
Anoka County Historical Society
2135 3rd Ave. N.
Anoka, MN 55303
(763) 421-0600
http://www.ac-hs.org/index.html
George Enloe Park
Head over to George Enloe Park for recreational fun throughout the year. When the weather's warm, your kids can play basketball, softball, volleyball, baseball, soccer or tennis in the 23-acre park. Walking trails and two playgrounds are also available. Pack a lunch and eat at the picnic area or use one of the grills provided by the park for a barbecue.
During the winter, your kids can go sledding, play hockey or ice skate. The park provides a building for them to warm up in afterwards and supervision by city staff at certain times. The hockey and skating rinks are open daily during winter, with extended hours offered on weekends and school vacation days. Indoor restrooms are also available.
George Enloe Park
631 Lund Blvd.
Anoka, MN 55303
(763) 576-2980
http://www.ci.anoka.mn.us/index.asp?Type=B_BASIC&SEC={6DFA3A0E-5496-4331-B8C6-02B5DCFBC3F7}&DE={54F3DE86-48D8-4EF6-B530-E9D319BD797E}
Tags: Anoka County, also available, Anoka 55303, Enloe Park, George Enloe, George Enloe Park, Lyric Arts
