We first enjoyed all the smiles more than two weeks ago in back of the Runnings store in Marshall. After a year-long pandemic spoiled our annual community-sponsored festivals and fairs, we were allowed to gather again.

The Shades of the Past car show was back. It seemed like there were more vehicles and bikes than ever to see that Saturday. Not only did we enjoy looking at the vehicles, but we enjoyed talking to each other without face masks.

Also on that Saturday, Russell kicked off its summer with Bandwagon Days. There was no rodeo, but the carnival rides entertained the children. And the parade was fantastic.

The very next weekend Lucan was able to celebrate Pretzel Days. Participants enjoyed the usual softball games and barbecues. But hats off to organizer Greg Janachovsky for bringing the Bohemian tractor pull to the festival. It was a real hit.

Last Saturday, brought more fun and thrills. Canby Hat Daze and the Lake Benton Saddle Horse Holiday also returned. And then there was the Father’s Day Air Show held at Myers Field in Canby. The pilots inside aerobatic planes put on a thrilling show.

A normal southwest Minnesota summer has returned. And there’s more fun yet to come. Western Fest returns to Granite Falls this weekend, along with the rodeo. And the Western Fest parade has a history of being impressive.

And if you don’t mind driving a little bit, Dawson’s Riverfest is this weekend as well.

Don’s miss the fun.