Communism Pavilion and Event Center

The Day of First Arising

Feast and Firelight to Ignite the Weekend

Summons to a Grand Endeavor

Communism Pavillion and Event Center

Vow Renewal and Family Dinner

Ceremony

Reception

Friday Morning Dungeons and Dragons

Friday Afternoon Dungeons and Dragons

Welcome Gathering, Dinner, and Campfire

Meet at Jeff and Juli's tent

Lughnasadh Ritual

Saturday Morning Dungeons and Dragons

Viking Ship Races

The Annual Communism Blue Ball

Catapult Tournament

Sunday Afternoon Dungeons and Dragons

Farewell Social, Dinner, and Campfire

Summons to a Noble Task

Final Embers Supper and Campfire to Bid the Weekend Farewell

The Final Departure

Our Vow Renewal Adventure

Read this whole page, if thou wouldst

A Weekend of Revelry and Companionship Awaits

Hark! Pray, join us for a weekend of boundless joy and spirited festivities! Arrive as early as 4 PM on Wednesday, July 30th, and prepare for a multitude of engaging activities spanning Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. On Monday, August 4th, we shall band together to pack and cleanse the campgrounds, sealing our memories with camaraderie. With a plethora of delightful activities, this is a weekend thou shalt not want to miss! Let us embrace the merriment together!

Timetable of Merriments

Wednesday, July 30Arrive as early as the clock strikes 4 PMSumac Hill and Riverview Group CampgroundsFeast and Firelight to Ignite the WeekendSumac Hill and Riverview Group Campgrounds, 6 PM to 10 PM Thursday, July 31Build Communism and SocialismSumac Hill and Riverview Group Campgrounds, 8 AM to 4 PMVow Renewal and Family DinnerCommunism Pavilion and Event Center, 5 PM to 10 PM Friday, August 1Catapult PracticeUpper Communism, 8 AM until darkViking Ship PracticeUpper Communism, 8 AM until darkCraftingThe Artificery, 8 AM until darkLawn Games and PastimesHelgi's Tea House, 8 AM until darkPublick Notice Board Adventures and ActivitiesPublick Notice Board, 8 AM until darkDungeons and DragonsCommunism Pavilion and Event Center, 9:30 AM to 12:30 PMDungeons and DragonsCommunism Pavilion and Event Center, 1:30 PM to 4:30 PMWelcome Gathering, Supper, and CampfireCommunism Pavilion and Event Center, 6 PM to 10 PM Saturday, August 2Catapult PracticeUpper Communism, 8 AM to 1 PMViking Ship PracticeUpper Communism, 8 AM to 1 PMCraftingThe Artificery, 8 AM until darkLawn Games and PastimesHelgi's Tea House, 8 AM until darkPublick Notice Board Adventures and ActivitiesPublick Notice Board, 8 AM until darkDungeons and DragonsCommunism Pavilion and Event Center, 9:30 AM to 12:30 PMViking Ship RacesUpper Communism, 1:30 PM to 5 PMThe Annual Communism Blue BallCommunism Pavilion and Event Center, 6 PM to 10 PM Sunday, August 3CraftingThe Artificery, 8 AM until darkLawn Games and PastimesHelgi's Tea House, 8 AM until darkPublick Notice Board Adventures and ActivitiesPublick Notice Board, 8 AM until darkCatapult TournamentUpper Communism, 9:30 AM to 12:30 PMCatapult PracticeUpper Communism, 12:30 PM until darkViking Ship PracticeUpper Communism, 12:30 PM until darkDungeons and DragonsCommunism Pavilion and Event Center, 1:30 PM to 4:30 PMFarewell Social, Supper, and CampfireCommunism Pavilion and Event Center, 6 PM to 10 PM Monday, August 4Tear down and clean up Communism and SocialismSumac Hill and Riverview Group Campgrounds, 8 AM to 5 PMFinal Embers Supper and Campfire to Bid the Weekend FarewellSumac Hill and Riverview Group Campgrounds, 6 PM to 10 PM Tuesday, August 5Finish Tearing Down Communism and Socialism and Final CleanupSumac Hill and Riverview Group Campgrounds, Latest Departure is 2 PM

Adventures Doth Await Thee

Hear ye, hear ye! Upon the town's notice board, all quests, revelries, and undertakings doth appear. Prithee, peruse the notice board to discover adventures, the hours and locales of merriments, and feats to conquer.

Children under age 18

To ensure the safety and enjoyment of all guests due to the nearby water, fire pits, and access to alcohol, we kindly ask that this event remain child-free. We understand this may pose some challenges, but we genuinely hope you can still join us. While we adore our nieces and nephews, their safety is our top concern. Please note, there are a few exceptions where children have been specifically invited. If we have not spoken to you directly regarding your child(ren) attending, we unfortunately cannot accommodate them at this time. If you have any questions, please contact Jeff or Juli to discuss the matter.

Barking Four-Legged Furbabies

We warmly welcome your canine companions to join us! However, they must be friendly with other dogs, vaccinated, and under your diligent care. In accordance with park regulations, dogs must remain leashed at all times, and you are responsible for their care and cleanup. If you plan to bring your furry friend, please inform Jeff or Juli in advance. Thank you!

Meowing Four-legged Furbabies

Since most cats prefer the comfort of indoors and may not enjoy the outdoor environment, we kindly ask that you leave them at home. Thank you for understanding.

Fire-Breathing Furless Babies

As it is not wise to meddle in the affairs of Dragons (and Dragons will find you Crunchy with Ketchup), we kindly ask you leave any Fire-Breathing Babies at home.

Heralds of Aid and Counsel

Shouldst thou require assistance or desire more wondrous words, do not hesitate to call upon Juli or Jeff.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Camping

Camping With the Party(Riverview and Sumac Hill Group Campgrounds) Welcome to Socialism, the sleepy little town next to Communism. We have ample space for tenting, and a few extra tents shouldst thou require one. Pray inform us in advance if thou needest a tent and we shall endeavor to make one available. We will have a tent site beside the shower and privy building in the Main Campground, ensuring easy access to showers with running water and fully functional privy facilities.&nbsp;If you plan to camp at the Group Campground, just let us know when you RSVP so we can save a tent location for you. Other Camping Options Shouldst thou prefer to camp in an RV or Camper, or if thou wishest to camp away from the action, Forestville-Mystery Cave offers both Electric and Non-Electric sites in the Main Campground. Additionally, there be five Camper Cabins available for reservation.Be it known that as this is a State Park, we are unable to reserve a block of campsites or cabins. Thou canst reserve these up to 120 days in advance. Plan thy stay accordingly and enjoy the splendors of the park! <a href="https://reservemn.usedirect.com/MinnesotaWeb/#!park/95/1022" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Reserve Camper Cabins</a> <a href="https://reservemn.usedirect.com/MinnesotaWeb/#!park/95/878" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Reserve Main Campground Sites</a>

We are looking forward to a fantastic camping experience together!

Hotels in the Preston, Minnesota Area

Here are some great hotel options near Forestville-Mystery Cave The Historic JailHouse Inn Bed &amp; Breakfast109 Houston Street NWPreston, MN 55965507-765-2181<a href="https://jailhouseinn.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">jailhouseinn.com</a>A Bed &amp; Breakfast Worth Going To Jail For!Featured on “Good Morning America,” the “Today Show” and in “USA Today” – 12 Room Inn with private baths, freshly prepared full breakfasts and located only 3 blocks from the root river bike trail Trailhead Inn112 Center StreetPreston, MN 55965507-765-2460<a href="https://www.trailheadinnpreston.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">trailheadinnpreston.com</a>Complimentary breakfast, 6 Standard Double Queen Rooms, 4 Standard Single Queen Rooms, 1 King Jacuzzi Room, pet-friendly rooms. Located directly on the Root River Bike Trail! Country Trails Inn &amp; Suites809 Hwy 52 NorthPreston, MN 55965507-765-2533 or 888-378-2896<a href="https://countrytrailsinn.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">countrytrailsinn.com</a>40 Rooms/Suites, Indoor Pool &amp; Spa, Continental breakfast served daily and conference room available.

Additional Hotels Further from Forestville-Mystery Cave

Stone Mill Hotel and Suites100 Beacon St ELanesboro, MN 55949507-46-.8663<a href="https://stonemillsuites.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">stonemillsuites.com</a>Stone Mill Hotel &amp; Suites, located in historic downtown Lanesboro, Minnesota, offers accommodations that are unique, relaxing, and rich in amenities.&nbsp;Choose from guest rooms with large double whirlpool bathtubs and iron-claw fireplaces to standard rooms, all nestled in the beautiful and tranquil setting of southeast Minnesota’s&nbsp;Bluff Country.&nbsp;A stay at Stone Mill offers a one-of-a-kind lodging experience. Root River Inn &amp; Suites106 Parkway Ave SLanesboro, MN 55949507-273-4100<a href="https://www.rootriverinn.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">rootriverinn.com</a>Our location on “main street” puts you just steps from food, drink, shops, arts and the theater. We’re right across the street from Juniper’s, the Root River State Bike Trail and the story phone. Americas Best Value Inn &amp; Suites Spring Valley745 N Broadway AveSpring Valley, MN 55975507-346-7788<a href="https://www.sonesta.com/americas-best-value-inn/mn/spring-valley/americas-best-value-inn-suites-spring-valley" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.sonesta.com/americas-best-value-inn/mn/spring-valley/americas-best-value-inn-suites-spring-valley</a>Americas Best Value Inn and Suites Spring Valley offers the most value for your money when staying for business, pleasure, or just passing through. We offer clean spacious rooms, a 24-hour front desk, free continental breakfast, and free Wi-Fi throughout the property.

Accommodations 

Arrivals by Air

Shouldst thou be traveling by air, the nearest aerodrome to Forestville-Mystery Cave and Preston, MN, is Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport (MSP). If thou dost not intend to rent a carriage and require transport to and from the gathering, kindly share thy travel plans with us so we may assist in arranging transportation for the

Journey by Carriage

Shouldst thou be traveling by carriage, thou canst use the following link to obtain directions to thy destination. <a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/DGxVsC2NJVDDn2Cc9" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Forestville-Mystery Cave on Google Maps: Forestville-Mystery Cave on Google Maps.</a>

Travel and Transportation

Ailments and Sensitivities of Victuals

If thou hast any food allergies or sensitivities, pray inform us with haste so we may accommodate thee as best as we can. We shall provide fare sensitive to Peanut Allergies, Tree Nut Allergies, Seafood Allergies, Nightshade Allergies, and Gluten-Free needs. Not all victuals shall be Nightshade-free or Gluten-free, but we shall have signage to indicate when the food item is not suitable. No food shall contain Peanuts, Tree Nuts, or Seafood contaminants. Thy well-being is of utmost importance to us.

Helgi's Tea House

Honored and Esteemed Guests, With great pleasure do we extend a warm welcome unto thee at Helgi's Tea House, where we remain at thy service throughout the day for thy delightful breakfast and luncheon experiences. At this juncture, we wouldst gently inform thee that, due to some temporary staffing challenges we presently face, we have adopted a self-service model for the time being. We would be truly grateful if thou wouldst assist us by serving thyselves and kindly taking a moment to bus thy tables. Thy understanding and cooperation in this matter would mean a great deal to us. We are sincerely thankful for thy patience and understanding as we gracefully navigate through this period, and we genuinely look forward to the opportunity to fully resume our usual service for thy enjoyment in the near future. Our Hours of OperationOpen All Day for Breakfast, Luncheon, Snacks, and Beverages Thank thee ever so much for thy ongoing support. We eagerly anticipate the pleasure of seeing thee!

Dew Drop Inn

Hear Ye, Hear Ye!The Dew Drop Inn doth be open for Tavern Beverages Due to an unforeseen staffing matter, the Dew Drop Inn doth now operate in self-service fashion. All esteemed guests are welcome to partake of our fine selection of ale, mead, and spirited concoctions throughout the day. Pray, serve thyself and attend to thine own table upon finishing. We humbly beseech thy understanding and patience as we strive to mend this staffing woe. Our full-service operations shall resume anon. Hours of Operation for Tavern Beverages:11th Hour of Morn to 10th Bell of Night each Day

Wednesday Eve's Repast

Thursday Evening Victuals

On the eve of Thursday, we shall dine upon Chicken Pot Pie and Chicken Pot Pie for our evenfeast. Note that Chicken Pot Pie hath a crust, whilst Chicken Pot Pie is more akin to a Chicken and Noodle Stew (Pennsylvanians have peculiar definitions). Pray join us for this delectable feast!

On Friday eve, partake in a buffet-style feast of Strolling Tacos. We shall present the finest array of s'mores, marshmallows, and other delights of the campfire.

The Feast of the Blue Ball

Pray join us on the Saturday Eve for a bounteous buffet-style feast during the Blue Ball. We shall serve a delicious salad, a roast of tender pork, the sweetest of potatoes, a delectable vegetable du jour, rolls, and a fine selection of desserts. Courtesy of the Dew Drop Inn, beverages of an adult nature shall be provided. Non-alcoholic beverages shall be kindly offered by the courtesy of Helgi's Tea House. Come and partake in the splendid fare!

On Sunday eve, partake in a bounteous feast of Girl Scout Gumbo, served in grand buffet style. We shall offer the finest selection of s'mores, marshmallows, and other delightful treats for the campfire.

Feast of Monday's Eve

On the eve of Monday, let us gather to indulge in a hearty feast of White Chicken Chili. Join us as we savor this delectable dish, prepared with the finest ingredients, and share in the warmth of good company. May the flavors delight thy senses and the camaraderie of friends bring joy to our hearts.

Drinks and Dining

Publick Notice Board

Hear ye, good and noble folk!Let all be aware of the Publick Notice Board, where proclamations, announcements, and edicts are displayed for the benefit of all. This hallowed board stands as the central hub of our community, conveying news, events, and important tidings. Keep thine eyes upon it, for herein lies the wisdom of the town, guiding us through both festivity and trial alike.

Verily, thou canst unlock accomplishments by journeying to locations amongst the towns of Communism and Socialism, partaking in daring adventures and quests, engaging in various deeds, and enjoying merry pastimes.

Obtain Tokens of Valor Bracelet & Instructions

As ye gather tokens of triumph, thou mayest add them to a charm bracelet. Once thou hast collected all the charms, the bracelet can be transformed into a keychain, shouldst thou desire.

Thou mayest obtain thy bracelet for gathering tokens of valor and the scroll of instructions for transforming it into a keychain at the Publick Notice Board.

Realms to Wander

In sooth, charms may be gathered at sundry locations. Each locale doth have its notice upon the Publick Notice Board. Seek ye these enchanted tokens spread across the land, with each notice guiding thee to the places where magic and mystery abound. May fortune favor thy quest, noble seeker, as thou embark upon this enchanted journey.

Quests to Undertake

Hearken! There are abundant quests and adventures, each granting a token of achievement upon completion. All such noble pursuits are duly posted upon the Publick Notice Board for thy perusal and participation.

Feats to Accomplish

By engaging in games and partaking in the scheduled festivities, thou canst gather tokens to bedeck thy charm bracelet. Events, their times, and locales shall be inscribed upon the town's Publick Notice Board. Embark upon joyous endeavors and merrymaking, and let each token be a testament to thy spirited participation and camaraderie.

Go forth and may thy quests be ever fruitful and merry!

Achievements Unlocked 

Daily Dungeon & Dragons Sessions

We shall hold multiple D&amp;D sessions Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, and thou mayest sign up when thou dost RSVP. We shall send forth character sheets and requirements ahead of time, allowing thee to craft thy character in advance. Additionally, a list of necessary and suggested items to bring for the sessions shall be provided. If thou hast never played before and wish to partake, this be thy chance. We have several seasoned Dungeon Masters, well-versed in guiding both new and experienced players. Be not shy—come and join the revelry! Ready thy dice and prepare for adventure!

Side Quests

Embark upon thrilling Side Quests that add an extra layer of adventure and merriment to thy experience! These mini-adventures provide unique challenges and opportunities for exploration and enjoyment beyond the main events. Here’s a glimpse of what to expect: Adventures and Treasure HuntsUncover hidden treasures scattered around the venue. Follow the clues, solve puzzles, and complete challenges to find the elusive rewards. Perfect for teams or solo adventurers seeking to test their wit and determination. Trials of Skill and ProwessTest thy abilities with a variety of skill-based challenges. From Viking Ships to Catapults and logic puzzles, there’s something for everyone. Earn bragging rights by proving thy prowess. Games and PastimesPartake in a range of games that offer quick, fun, and engaging activities. Whether thou seekest a quick thrill or a deep dive into a new challenge, Side Quests have something for everyone. Ready thy gear and set off on thy next great adventure!&nbsp;

Welcome Gathering, Dinner,  and Campfire

On the eve of Friday, let us gather 'round for a warm and welcoming campfire and partake in joyous activities! 'Tis the perfect opportunity to catch up with old friends, forge new bonds, and reconnect with family. Let us come together and revel in an evening of fellowship and merriment. Dinner shall be served in buffet style.

Hark and join us for the Annual Communism Blue Ball, a grand celebration brimming with joy, unity, and revelry. This noble occasion shall include a vow renewal ceremony, a delightful feast, and an unforgettable festivity. Vow Renewal CeremonyJoin us as Jeff and Juli reaffirm their love and commitment to one another in a touching and meaningful ceremony. FeastEnjoy a delectable meal whilst mingling with fellow guests and celebrating the spirit of togetherness. Due to the calamitous disaster in the Ice Sea, we shall not serve the traditional Red Herring. Instead, we shall dine on tender Pork Roast, delectable Sweet Potatoes, and the vegetable of the day, accompanied by various desserts and beverages. FestivityDance the night away at the lively festivity, featuring music and joyous activities. Let loose and enjoy the festive atmosphere as we celebrate this special occasion. AttireGarb thyself in thy finest azure attire and prepare for an eve of celebration and unity. Cosplay is most welcome! If thou dost not don a costume, please attire thyself in comfort—we recommend the rustic elegance of camping chic. The Annual Communism Blue Ball is an event not to be missed! We eagerly await thy presence!

Partake in the thrill and excitement of Viking Ship Races! This grand event harkens back to the days of legendary Norse explorers and warriors, featuring "authentic replicas of Viking longships" locked in fierce battle upon the "water". Participants shall row with all their might to claim victory, showcasing their strength, coordination, and teamwork. Spectators shall cheer the teams on as they race to the finish line, with the rhythmic splash of oars and the roar of the crowd adding to the electrifying atmosphere. Do not forget to don thy finest Viking attire—'tis not required, but surely adds to the merriment! Ready thy oars and prepare for an unforgettable adventure upon the high seas!&nbsp;

Prepare thyselves for an exhilarating Catapult Tournament! This grand event shall be filled with excitement, strategy, and friendly competition as participants showcase their skills and strive for victory. Participants shall launch projectiles to strike designated targets using our newly fashioned catapults and a formidable ballista. The tournament shall test thy creativity, precision, and teamwork as ye vie for the top honor. Spectators may cheer on their favored teams and marvel at the impressive ingenuity on display. Join us for this thrilling competition and let the games commence!

On the eve of Sunday, let us gather 'round the campfire once more. Let us say "fare thee well" instead of goodbye as we enjoy one last memorable evening together. Dinner shall be served in buffet style.

Events and Activities

Side Quests art available all day, every day.

 Begin thy adventure at the Publick Notice Board and choose thine own path.

Engage in exhilarating Side Quests that enrich thy journey with adventure and joy! These mini-adventures offer unique challenges and opportunities for exploration and enjoyment beyond the main festivities.

Adventures and Treasure Hunts

Seek out hidden treasures dispersed across Communism and Socialism. Follow the clues, solve puzzles, and complete challenges to unveil elusive rewards. Adventure together or alone, test your wit and determination, and discover how adept you are at logic. Search the Publick Notice Board for adventures a plenty.

Trials of Skill and Prowess

Engage in the noble Trials of Skill and Prowess, where thy talents shall be tested to the utmost. Thou shalt find thy challenges of skill, strength, wits, and courage above the Communism Pavilion and Event Center. Knock down a wall a with Catapult or Ballista: Show thy prowess in siege weaponry by aiming and launching projectiles.Paddle a Viking Ship: Attempt to maneuver a Viking longship with strength and coordination.

Games and Pastimes

Helgi's Tea House doth provide merriment of games and pastimes. Partake in a classic lawn game such as Bocce Ball, Ladder Toss, Cornhole, or Badminton. Engage in a tabletop game like Close the Box, Mancala, Cribbage, or Jenga. Shouldst ye feel adventurous, try thy hand at a Medieval Game:Kubb: Smite wooden blocks by hurling batons.Quoits: Hurl rings to land around pegs.Nine Men's Morris: A strategic board game involving the placement and movement of pieces to form mills.﻿

Craft Thy Masterpieces

Hark, crafty souls! The Artificery has wondrous arts and crafts awaiting thee. Immerse thyself in the creation of masterpieces, from delicate trinkets to grand tapestries. Whether thou art a novice or a seasoned artisan, The Artificery doth offer materials and guidance for all to explore their creative spirits. Join us and let thy imagination flourish amidst a realm of colors and craftsmanship.

May the Merriment Commence!

Hark, good folk! Forsooth, if thou art not privy to the tale behind Communism, lend thine ear. Juli, in the crafting of a Dungeons &amp; Dragons campaign, didst fashion a town by the name of Communism for this quest. We strive to recreate as much of this Communism as our humble means allow. It doth bring us great joy to reconstruct even a part of Communism, and verily, the sleepy hamlet yclept Socialism that lieth beside it. Many a jest hath been woven into the tapestry of this campaign, known to those of us who have partaken or perused the tale. But fret not! Thou needn't have read or grasped the campaign to revel in this merry reconstruction. Our endeavor is solely to replicate the town, not the saga entire. We bid thee to relish this sojourn into the wondrous creation of Juli. Enjoy the merriment and partake in the jest, dear friends!

Translation (for those who do not read Medieval Speak)

Hello, everyone! If you're not familiar with the story behind Communism, here's a quick explanation. Juli, in crafting a Dungeons &amp; Dragons campaign, created a town named Communism for the quest. We're striving to recreate as much of this Communism as we can within our humble means. It brings us great joy to reconstruct even a part of Communism, and also the nearby sleepy hamlet called Socialism. Many jokes have been woven into the tapestry of this campaign, known to those who have participated or read the tale. But don't worry! You don't need to have read or understood the campaign to enjoy this fun reconstruction. Our goal is simply to replicate the town, not the entire saga. We invite you to enjoy this journey into Juli's wonderful creation. Enjoy the fun and join in the laughter, dear friends!

Juli + Jeff

Juli + Jeff

Travel and Transportation

Arrivals by Air

Journey by Carriage