Annual Events
The SCHS Extravaganza
The Steele County Historical Society Extravaganza is an annual event that celebrates the heritage and history of Steele County’s past. Started in 1987, the Extravaganza features a wide variety crafts, demonstrations, performances, games, delicious food and so much more. This event allows you to step back in time and feel what it was like to live in Steele County more than 100 years ago, and to learn about the people who helped to shape our county into what it is today.
The SCHS Extravaganza takes place in our Village of Yesteryear each summer and provides a day full of family-friendly fun. Admission is always free, so make sure to mark this down on your calendar!
Orphanage Museum Fall Celebration
Join the Steele County Historical Society at the Orphanage Museum in September for an afternoon celebrating the State Public School for Dependent and Neglected Children. This annual event brings the State School era to life with character reenactors, lawn games, crafts, horse-drawn wagon rides, food, and so much more.
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This event helps preserve the legacy of the Minnesota State Public School and serves to educate people on the lives of the 10,635 children who were placed here. The Orphanage Museum is a one-of-a-kind piece of Minnesota's history that we are honored to share. This free, family-friendly event takes place on the West Hills campus, the original home of Minnesota State Public School and includes tours of the main museum and Cottage 11.
SCHS Annual Meeting
The Steele County Historical Society is a 501(c) 3 charitable organization and relies on our members to help support us in a variety of ways. Each year we hold a celebratory event for our members and supporters to learn about what has been done that year, what lies ahead for the society, and enjoy a nice dinner together as a group. The Annual Meeting includes presentations from the board of directors and staff of the SCHS, as well as the presentation of awards to volunteers who help to the society in so many ways. Society business is also held at this event, with new board members and officers elected by the membership itself.
Our Annual Meeting is held each March for the previous fiscal year. Please contact the History Center if you would like more information.
Christmas in the Village
The Steele County Historical Society’s Christmas in the Village is an annual event designed to bring out the child in all of us. Cookie sales, horse-drawn wagon rides, carolers, Christmas music, and of course Santa Claus! This multi-day event occurs in early December and is one of our most beloved annual traditions.
Make sure to check in to see what is in store for the year during the fall months, as Christmas in the Village changes every year. If you would like to be involved and volunteer to be a part of Christmas in the Village, please contact the History Center today! From cooking, to baking, setup, and day-of assistance, we are able to find volunteer positions for everyone.
