Get your Grumpy on

The 1993 film “Grumpy Old Men” tells the story of a lifelong feud between two neighbors, Max and John. Add a new female neighbor into the mix and the grudge only grows.

The original movie and its sequel “Grumpier Old Men” will be the cause of celebration in Wabasha next weekend.

Both films were set in the small river town, although no scenes were actually filmed in Wabasha. Neighboring Minnesota towns and cities, including Red Wing, were graced by the camera’s presence.

Nevertheless, Wabasha has held an annual Grumpy Old Men Festival. It was 20 years ago that Max and John debuted on movie screens and hearts, with their childish pranks and lasting friendship.

“We have tried to bring to life new events — with the Chili Cook-off, while still keep most other events the same, like the Hot Dish Luncheon and fishing tournaments,” said Chelsea Lockrem, event coordinator at Wabasha-Kellogg Chamber of Commerce and Convention & Visitors Bureau.

Attendance for the festival remained steady the past few years, according to Lockrem.

There is a full day of activities planned starting with an old-fashioned hearty breakfast from 8 to 11 a.m. at the American Legion.

After filling your belly, it is time to head over to the fishing tournament at 11 a.m. at the Parkside Marina. Whether you are in your ice house or shipped out to the standing barge - good fishing, soaring eagles and glistening ice await.

Warm up at the inaugural Grumpy Chili Cook-off from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the ambulance barn. All donations help out the Wabasha Volunteer Ambulance Department.

If chili doesn’t do it for you, then the Northwood’s Hot Dish Luncheon at United Church of Christ from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. may be more up your alley. With more than 20 hot dishes to choose from, don’t forget to leave room for dessert.

The afternoon continues at the VFW for the minnow races from 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Partake in the cribbage Tournament at noon. The American Legion is offering bingo at 25 cents a card from noon to 3 p.m. or you can try your poker face at Slippery’s annual Texas Hold’em Tournament at 12:30 p.m.

The fifth annual Grumpy Plunge steps off the dock at 3 p.m. in front of Slippery’s, offering those adventurous sorts the opportunity to jump into the Mississippi - in February - when it is still cold, icy and very cold.

The event helps raise funds for the local community. Last year 83 plungers, and a dog, raised more than $14,000.

“We have had a really good turn out,” Lockrem said of the plunge. “People get really excited about it and come from all over, we even had a couple come from Germany to plunge.”

Finish the night with a grand assortment of musical selections. Backlash will play from 7 to 11 p.m. at Slippery’s; Kickback Productions will be at the VFW from 8:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m.; JLM Entertainment takes over the American Legion from 7 to 11 p.m.; and the Bootleg Brothers will perform from 9:30 to 11:30 p.m. at the Silver Star Saloon.

For more information about the Grumpy Old Men Festival, to register for events or to enter the “Chili Cook-Off” visit www.wabashamn.org.

Tags: arts and entertainment, lifestyle, arts, entertainment, social