A variety of community events are scheduled for this weekend in Albert Lea and surrounding areas, offering residents opportunities for fun, food, and fellowship. Highlighted activities include an “I Believe in Angels” brunch, a festive holiday gathering in Wells, and a charity turkey trot.
First Lutheran Church in Albert Lea will host an “I Believe in Angels” event on November 18, 2023, from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. Attendees can enjoy a brunch featuring egg bake, pastries, frozen fruit cups, and coffee. The event will also include crafts, sweet treats, gift baskets, books, games, puzzles, and quilts, with a quilt raffle and traditional lefse available for purchase. Sponsored by the church’s women’s group, proceeds will support local and global missions.
The city of Wells will celebrate its annual Wells Does It Bright event on November 17, 2023, from 4 to 7 p.m. in downtown Wells. Families can look forward to live reindeer, Santa Claus, and Mrs. Claus, along with a bonfire, craft vendors, face painting, horse-drawn wagon rides, and a movie screening. Children can participate in crafts at the local library, while bounce houses will be set up at Living Wells Church.
The following day, the Wells Community Ambulance Service will organize its first annual Heroes Turkey Trot fun run/walk. Registration begins at 9 a.m. at the ambulance garage, with the run/walk commencing at 10 a.m. The entry fee is $25, and participants can preregister online. Attendees are encouraged to dress in costumes themed around heroes or Thanksgiving, with a prize awarded for the best outfit.
At Oakland Lutheran Church, the 10th annual Chili Cook-Off will take place on November 18, 2023, starting at 11 a.m. Participants will have the chance to taste and rate various chili entries, with cash prizes for the winners and runners-up. The event will also feature a silent auction, a bake sale, and a baked potato bar, along with traditional lefse for sale. Live polka music will be provided by Hans the Music Man, and tickets are priced at $12 for adults and $6 for children aged 6 to 12.
In Geneva, Jamison Murphy will perform live music at the Geneva Bar and Grill on the evening of November 18, 2023. Happy hour will run from 2:30 to 6 p.m., with games available from 4 p.m. until closing. Following the music, at 6:30 p.m., a turkey bingo event will benefit the Geneva Volunteer Fire Department. Players can participate in 40 games for $20 per card, with two door prizes and a pie auction also on the agenda. The winner will receive a turkey, and proceeds will contribute toward purchasing a new fire truck.
These events not only provide entertainment but also foster community spirit and support local initiatives. Residents are encouraged to participate and enjoy the festive atmosphere this weekend.
