Come and celebrate autumn during Leaf Days at Maplewood State Park. The Friends of Maplewood annual gathering is an excellent opportunity to see the Park strut its dynamic colors and participate in family-fun activities. The four-day festival is held Sept. 28-29 and Oct. 5-6 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The event began in 2002 and has grown dramatically through the years. 

“We enjoy hosting the event,” said Scott Stenshoel, President of Friends of Maplewood. “Our volunteers do a tremendous job planning and organizing the activities and food.”

There’s something for everyone at Leaf Days. 

“Some of our most popular events are building a birdhouse or feeder, shelling corn, making rope, and pressing apples for cider,” said Denise Laymon, Vice President. 

Food will be available for purchase at the Trail Center.

The event is a key fundraiser for Friends of Maplewood. 

“We are a 501(c)3 nonprofit,” said Laymon. “We rely on donations and memberships to fund activities like Leaf Days, the Candlelight Trek, and our summer workshops.”

The event is free but requires a current Minnesota State Park vehicle pass. Those who don’t already have one, canpurchase one ahead of time at www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/permit.html.