Even a devastating flood will not overcome Minot's spirit of tradition and fun, organizers of the Great Tomato Festival insist.
The 23rd edition of the event, usually a transition to autumn, will be held as usual at the State Fair Center Aug. 10, the first post-flood event held there, Nancy Walter said.
Walter, executive director of the Taube Art Museum, said the museum is one beneficiary of proceeds from the festival. The Minot Public Library and the Lewis and Clark Fort Mandan Foundation also will share the proceeds.
The festival doors open at 5 p.m. to allow browsing among more than 300 items and services to be offered in a silent auction.
"The auction has a lot of flood-restoration related items, as well as our traditional artwork from area and regional artists," Walter said.
"Other big ticket items will include a dinner for six with Teddy Roosevelt, in the person of historian Clay Jenkinson, and evenings out and travel getaways," she added. "Because the library is benefitting, we will offer some nice books, too."
Walter said major sponsors, those who contribute $500 or more, will avoid standing in lines and will enjoy fine wines as added incentives.
Chairman Peggy Miller, aided by Walter, Laura Mihalick and Jerry Kaup, said the social hour begins at 6 p.m. Dinner, with the traditional menu, will be served at 7 p.m.
Otherwise, tickets are $25 in advance and $30 at the door. Advance tickets are available at Artistry, Artmain, the Taube Museum of Art, the Minot Public Library, The Computer Store and Tires Plus at Minot Air Force Base.