Summer has arrived. To the Hormel Historic Home that means many things.

It means we have gardening and landscaping projects to do. It means we will have outdoor wedding ceremonies and receptions, and it means our Peace Garden will be the site of several community concerts.We also expect many visitors to the Historic Home who enjoy roaming around an old home appreciating the fine details within.

Our landscaping projects are well underway thanks to some guidance from Berg’s Nursery and to some assistance from Gerard Academy. Randy Berg has donated his expertise to guide our staff through some basic rearranging and maintenance tasks. Several crews of young people from Gerard have volunteered their time to help us with the chores. They have moved rock, laid edging stones, planted bushes, and weeded. We appreciate their enthusiasm and their willingness to serve, not to mention their youthful energy.

Summer weddings are beautiful and we are proud that so many couples choose to exchange their vows in the Peace Garden.  Large or small ceremonies in our lush garden are very memorable. The bubbling fountain surrounded by Irises, Hostas, Roses, Hardy Geraniums, and Hydrangeas creates a lovely background for photos and a tranquil environment. Wisteria will be blooming on the gazebo soon enhancing the garden setting even more.

The concert schedule includes one repeat performance and several new groups. The Teddy Bear Band will start the series on Monday, June 22, with two appearances. The afternoon concert will be at 2 p.m. and will feature the classic group along with their Panda mascot. In the evening the band members transform into The Resistors to offer a fun line up of music for all ages.

We welcome back the Austin Community Jazz Band on July 1 as a great way to start your Independence Day activities. Local musicians from the Bissen family will entertain on July 21 with a tribute to Bob Dylan and other classic 60s tunes.  In August a unique percussion quartet consisting of musicians from the MacPhail Center for Music will perform. Matra Percussion brings original compositions and arrangements on four unique instruments.  Choo Choo Bob completes the series on Wednesday, August 5th, at 2 p.m. with a train themed line-up.

All concerts are free and open to the public. Bring a blanket or a chair.  Pack a picnic if you wish. Refreshments will be available for sale during evening performances. Can’t wait to see you here.

 Free Garden Concert

2 p.m., Monday, June 22

The Teddy Bear Band, a Twin Cities favorite, will perform. All ages welcome. 6:30 p.m., members of the Teddy Bear Band transform into The Resistors to perform high energy versatile music for all ages.

 Free Garden Concert

6:30 p.m., Wednesday, July 1

The Austin Community Jazz Band will perform an entertaining set of traditional jazz favorites that all will enjoy.