Judy Garland Museum
June 5, 2020
Republic of Kinney
June 6, 2020
Many stories surround this fictional saint of Finland. Nonetheless, St. Urho is celebrated with great passion in the town of Menahga, Minnesota.
The legend states the St. Urho saved Finland from a grasshopper invasion. The story has changed during the years but the latest rendition says that St. Urho, in a very loud voice, chanted “Heinäsirkka, heinäsirkka, mene täältä hiiteen!” (“Grasshopper, grasshopper, go from hence to Hell!”). Finland was saved and the celebration began.
Traditionally, Saint Urho is commemorated on March 16th the day before St. Patrick’s Day. It has become a two-day celebration for the people of Menahga. Everyone dresses in royal purple and nile green. They have their opening ceremony and crown the new St. Urho King and Queen. There is a medallion hunt, look-a-like contest, horse/duck races, music, sled dog rides, pancake breakfast, parade and so much more.
When you visit Menahga you can see a statue of Saint Urho holding his pitchfork that has speared a giant grasshopper. Bring the whole family and join in the fun of the St. Urho Day Celebration.
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