Tama Smith with Prairie Fire Pottery is just one of many talented potters in the state. Photo courtesy N.D. Tourism

Art can bring life to so many things. It can brighten an alleyway, bring excitement to a road trip and inspire your creativity. October is Arts and Humanities Month, making it the perfect time to celebrate all forms of art in communities large and small.

Local creators, such as Badman Design in Grand Forks, create beautiful one-of-a-kind pieces, using mixed metals and terracotta clay. Choose from custom jewelry to accent your wardrobe, or home décor and sculptures to accent your home or business.

As summer slowly sets, fall gives rise to new activities, and a whole new set of tastes. Doesn’t a warm cup of coffee just taste better in the crisp air? And those veggies at the local farmers market almost look too good to eat. However, we invite you to explore hidden gems in the state that welcome fall as smoothly as the leaves change their beautiful hues.

Craving wide-open spaces? Lucky for you, North Dakota has hundreds of miles of wide-open space, and the most stunning outdoor attractions are free of traffic jams and crowded trails. Take in the sounds of a bison’s hooves slowly crossing the road at Theodore Roosevelt National Park or an elk’s antlers brushing through leaves at the White Horse National Game Preserve.

Embrace the Norwegian lifestyle, known as “friluftsliv,” which translates to “free air life.” Year-round activities in the great outdoors and connecting with nature have positive effects on health, mind and body. Winter can renew your spirit. It’s a season of opportunity to safely explore, take in the fresh air and put your inhibitions on ice.