Grain Palace Days In Ray, North Dakota, July 31 To August 2

There is something about a small-town celebration in North Dakota that just feels like summer. Maybe it is the sound of a parade making its way down Main Street, neighbors catching up after not seeing each other for a while, or kids racing from one activity to the next with smiles on their faces.

That tradition continues this weekend as Grain Palace Days returns to Ray from July 31 through August 2, bringing three days of music, family activities, food, and community fun.

Whether you've lived in Ray your entire life or you're looking for a weekend road trip, there is something happening nearly every hour.

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Ray Grain Palace Days Concert

A Weekend Packed With Activities

The celebration kicks off Friday, July 31, with a concert featuring The Long Run, an Eagles tribute band, along with Forever Seger, a tribute to Bob Seger and the Silver Bullet Band. Gates open at 5:30 p.m., and the show begins at 7 p.m. Visitors can also enjoy food vendors, drink trucks, and beer gardens throughout the evening.

Saturday promises to be one of the busiest days of the weekend.

The morning begins with the 3K Veteran Suicide Prevention Run/Walk at 8 a.m. Registration is free, with donations accepted at the Ray Senior Citizens Center beginning at 7:30 a.m.

Children will take center stage during the Kids Parade at 10:30 a.m., followed by the community parade at 11 a.m. Sand volleyball gets underway after the parade, while pie lovers can enjoy the District 2 Dem-NPL Homemade Pie & Ice Cream Social from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Ray Mall. The annual Firemen's Feed will also be held beginning at noon at the fire hall.

From 12 p.m. to 5 p.m., North Park will be the place to be during Party in the Park. Activities include a car show, vendor fair, food trucks, live music by the Dan Brekke Band, a wings and ribs cook-off, a chalk art contest, and plenty of free family attractions including a train ride, petting zoo, laser tag, inflatables, and face painting.

The excitement continues Saturday evening with Bulls & Broncs. The Calcutta begins at 6 p.m., followed by the main event at 7 p.m. The day wraps up with the Northside Street Dance at 9 p.m., featuring DJ D-Jaden.

Ray Grain Palace Days

Wrapping Up the Weekend

Sunday slows the pace just a bit while continuing the community spirit.

A Pancakes and Sausage Breakfast will be served from 8 a.m. until noon at the Ray Golf Course. The breakfast is free, with donations accepted.

The weekend concludes with Church in the Park at 10 a.m., where everyone is invited to bring a lawn chair and enjoy a time of worship together.

Grain Palace Days has long been one of northwest North Dakota's favorite summer traditions because it offers something for everyone. Whether you're coming for the music, the food, the rodeo, the parade, or simply to spend time with family and friends, the weekend is a reminder of what makes small-town communities so special.

If you're looking for something to do this weekend, Ray is ready to welcome you for three days of fun, tradition, and hometown hospitality this weekend.

20 Ways To Save Money Now In North Dakota

Who says saving money has to be boring? From brewing your own coffee to hunting for treasure at thrift stores, there are plenty of clever (and sometimes silly) ways to stretch your dollars. Our photo gallery takes you on a visual tour of simple tricks that add up—packing lunches that won’t mysteriously disappear in your office fridge, turning off lights without starting a household argument, and even planting a backyard garden that might just make your neighbors jealous. Each tip comes with a picture to inspire you, make you smile, and prove that saving money can be both practical and fun. Your wallet—and maybe your coffee mug—will thank you!

Gallery Credit: Scott Haugen