The Songwriters in the Round series, sponsored by the Hallberg Family Foundation with support from Forest Lake's Music Connection, continues its tradition of showcasing local and regional songwriting talent. For Episode #72, the Hallberg Art Center welcomes musicians Amanda Grace, Samantha Grimes & Sarah Morris to the outdoor Sunset Schooner Stage, weather permitting. Admission is Free! Come early and view the Black & White Art Exhibit and vote for your personal favorites.

Brian is a renowned American fiddler, educator, and author whose influence on traditional fiddle music has shaped generations of players across the globe. His dynamic playing style and approachable teaching methods have made him among the most respected fiddlers and educators in the United States. A native Minnesotan and Minnesota Music Hall of Fame inductee, Brian began Suzuki violin lessons at age seven. As a nine year-old, he heard the bluegrass fiddling of Paul Warren on a record by Flatt and Scruggs that changed his life.

If you've always wanted to try improv or have seen it on TV and thought "I could do that!" or maybe you've even taken a class or two and want to meet other folks who like doing it, come out and play. We'll cover the basic tenets and rules of improv through short form improv games and have a blast along the way. No improv experience necessary, just a good attitude and a willingness to have some fun.

Come play with us! In this workshop we'll loosen up and play improv and theater games chosen for all ages to play together. We'll build communication and togetherness, develop storytelling skills and create funny characters on the spot. Meant to be silly fun and a way to make memories, you'll also learn a couple new games you can play together at home. (Note: This workshop does best with families with kids ages 5 and up, but those with young folks under the age of 5--your little one is very welcome, and young children may or may not want to participate and that's totally okay!

Celebrate the season by stitching sweet, simple wool ornaments—designed using cookie cutters! In class, you’ll complete a mitten ornament and prepare another to finish at home. These hand-stitched treasures make heartfelt gifts. You will also make a felted wool wreath from small squares. You’ll be supplied with a kit consisting of a cookie cutter template, prepared wool pieces, heat and bond lite, embroidery thread, assorted needles, tiny buttons. Please bring a small sewing scissors to class.

Join us for some festive fun as we turn wool and buttons into the cutest “ugly” sweater ornaments! Perfect to gift or hang on your own tree, these tiny sweaters may be silly, but they’re sure to bring big smiles and a bit of holiday luck to everyone who sees them. You’ll be supplied with a kit consisting of a cookie cutter template, tracing paper/pencil, wool, heat and bond lite, embroidery thread, assorted needles, tiny buttons. Please bring a small sewing scissors to class.

A Solo Exhibit featuring the photography of Brenda Hoffman in the Underground Gallery Sponsored by Teh Orginal Hoffman Bros. Sod, Inc. There will be an Opening Reception on Thursday, August 20th from 5pm-7:30pm. Light refreshments and beverages will be served, along with pie donated by the Village Inn, coffee donated by White Pine Coffee and craft beer from the Uncommon Loon Brewery. The opening night reception also includes musical accompaniment from Taylor Benson! The show closes Saturday, September 12th at 4PM.

Contours, Current, and Clay in the Freemore Gallery A Trio Exhibit featuring the artwork of Allison Baxter, Marion Angelica & Melissa Critchley There will be an Opening Reception on Thursday, August 20th from 5pm-7:30pm. Light refreshments and beverages will be served, along with pie donated by the Village Inn, coffee donated by White Pine Coffee and craft beer from the Uncommon Loon Brewery. The opening night reception also includes musical accompaniment from Taylor Benson! The show closes Saturday, September 12 at 4PM. Sponsored by Dave Freemore.

Kids Are Artists Too- FREE Art Class and Storytime Join us at the Hallberg Center for the Arts for a free art experience on the fourth Saturday of every month in 2026! This inclusive class is designed for all ages and skill levels. The session begins with an inspiring picture story read by local storyteller and tutor, Ashley, from Keep it Up Tutoring, followed by an engaging art project led by local artist, Surelle. This month we will be reading a book about Vincent Van Gogh, and making vibrant sunflowers!