'Official start of winter' this weekend as Hay Days is celebrated near Almelund

For readers who are missing that state fair-caliber crowd atmosphere don’t fret, Hay Days is just around the corner. Happening west of Almelund, at Highway #95 and Oriole Avenue (Cty. Road 70) this Saturday and Sunday Sept 8 and 9; thousands of people are again expected to descend for the “official start of winter,” presented by the Sno Barons Snowmobile Club. The gates open to the public Saturday, admission is $20. Sunday admission is $10. Kids ages 12 and under get in free. You can get a two-day ticket for $25. This year there’s an option to actually attending. Hay Days is streaming races live on the web, in a “pay per view” arrangement. But many fans of Hay Days look forward to this motorsports extravaganza for more than just speed competitions. Hay Days’ 2,000 vendor- swap spots are filled with anything you might want for motorsports. New items or parts range from snowmobiles to ATV, dirt biking and whatever you can think of that requires parts or accessories and is motor-powered. Professional demonstrations and stunts are also a favorite. This year the Minnesota Four-Wheel Drive Association will bring trucks to the stunt course. Courses also feature aerial and other freestyle events using snowmobiles, ATVs and various vehicles. The Sno Barons Club provides grants annually which are made possible partly through proceeds from this two-day event. North Branch Sno Drifters received funding in 2010 and 2011 to construct a small ditch bridge and for upgrades to the trail groomer. All clubs are welcome to apply for the grants, see the Sno Barons website. Grants range from $150 to $1,500.