Grand Forks and the surrounding areas offer an abundant array of activities to do at all seasons of the year. One activity that can be enjoyed year round – no matter the season – is the fine arts! In our area you will find many opportunities to take in a live theatre production, live music (indoors and outdoors), an art exhibit or gallery –  just to name a few! An evening that you spend enjoying the arts is never wasted so here are 4 ways you can appreciate fine arts in Greater Grand Forks:

Empire Arts Center

The Empire Arts Center’s marquee creates an iconic view on Demers Avenue downtown. This historic and beautiful building houses a variety of events and forms of art year-round. Audiences can take in theatre productions, community cultural events, dance recitals, and concerts – just to name a few. The lobby of the theatre includes an art gallery curated by the University of North Dakota, featuring a rotation of art to enjoy before and after a show, or for a quick break during an intermission. Check out the marquee anytime you’re downtown to get a feel for upcoming events! There is something for everyone to enjoy and productions happen all throughout the year.

Summer Performing Arts

I have fond memories of summers growing up in Grand Forks and participating in the Summer Performing Arts company every year from elementary school through high school graduation. This special organization provides full format theatre and drama experiences for students elementary through high school each summer. High school students spend a majority of their summer preparing, rehearsing, and perfecting a musical production to be performed in July each year. The Summer Performing Arts company puts on two full-length productions each summer – one starring 9^th and 10^th grade students, and the other 11^th and 12^th. When you purchase tickets for these shows you are supporting the continued operation of this great program AND you get to enjoy a top-notch show. Monitor their website to see what shows they will be putting on this summer!

North Dakota Museum of Art

The North Dakota Museum of Art is nestled in a beautiful spot on the University of North Dakota campus. Here you will experience mainstay exhibits along with rotating fresh and new art throughout the year. The building renders a unique place to explore, and you can even grab lunch in their hidden café with a friend (or date). This local gem also hosts an outdoor concert series in the summer, providing the perfect backdrop for enjoying an evening on balmy summer nights.

Grand Forks City Band at the Myra Museum Pavilion

During a drive along Belmont Road on some summer weeknights, you may notice an abnormal amount of cars parked near the intersection of 24^th Avenue. If that’s the case you’re in for a treat – the Grand Forks City Band is playing a concert at the pavilion on the Myra Museum property. Bring your lawn chair and stake out a spot to enjoy an evening of outdoor music. The Myra Museum provides a great setting to sit back, tap your toes along with the music, and enjoy the outdoors with lots of tree cover and a close proximity to the Red River.