Language Villages located in Bemidji, Minn.
The Concordia Language Villages permanent site - just north of Bemidji, Minn., and nestled on over 800 acres of wooded land around Turtle River Lake - brings approximately 10,000 people to the area annually. It is the home to ten architecturally authentic Language Villages: El Lago del Bosque (Spanish Language Village), Lac du Bois (French Language Village), Lesnoe Ozero (Russian Language Village),Salolampi (Finnish Language Village), Sjölunden (Swedish Language Village), Skogfjorden (Norwegian Language Village), Skovsøen (Danish Language Village), Sup sogŭi Hosu (Korean Language Village), Waldsee (German Language Village), Al-Wāḥa (Arabic Language Village), and Les Voyageurs.
About Bemidji, Minn.
Located in the North Woods of Minnesota, "Bemidji" is an Ojibwe word "Bay-may-ji-ga-maug" meaning "lake with cross waters," referring to the Mississippi River which crosses Lake Bemidji. Bemidji is the first city along the river's bank, only miles from where the mighty Mississippi River begins its 2,552 mile journey to New Orleans and the Gulf of Mexico.
Bemidji’s 13,000 inhabitants enjoy being near Itasca State Park, Lake Bemidji State Park, Chippewa National Forest, and 400 fishing lakes within 25 miles. Over 500 miles of snowmobile trails and 160 km of cross-country ski trails are located in close proximity to Bemidji, making this a popular vacation destination with plenty of resorts, cabins, hotels and campgrounds for people to enjoy. In addition, Bemidji State University is home to about 6,000 students every year.
Bemidji Events
Brrrrmidji Polar Days (January)
Logging Days (February)
Minnesota Finlandi Ski Marathon (February)
Dragon Boat Festival (August)
Bemidji is also known as "Curling Capital, U.S.A.," home of the U.S. Olympic Curling Teams. In addition to the bronze Olympic medal in Torino in 2006, Bemidji has won 50 state championships and 18 national championships in curling.
Climate
Minnesota is typical of a continental climate. The North Woods of Minnesota, where Bemidji is located, experiences the widest variety of weather in the United States. Each of the four seasons has its own distinct characteristics. Although summers are generally hot and humid, it is normal to experience rain showers, thunderstorms and cool nights. Summer temperatures average 85 F but can get down to 55 F. Winter temperatures require adequate outdoor gear so keep that in mind while packing.
Language Villages programs at this location:
El Lago del Bosque, Spanish Language Village
Lac du Bois, French Language Village
Lesnoe Ozero, Russian Language Village
Salolampi, Finnish Language Village
Sjölunden, Swedish Language Village
Al-Wāḥa, Arabic Language Village
Skogfjorden, Norwegian Language Village
Skovsøen, Danish Language Village
Sup sogŭi Hosu, Korean Language Village
Waldsee, German Language Village
Les Voyageurs, French Language Village
Bemidji Tourist Information Center
300 Bemidji Ave
Located on the shore of Lake Bemidji next to statues of legendary Lumberjack Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox. The tourist office is open year round, displaying Paul Bunyan memorabilia and the unique Fireplace of States. Also available are maps, brochures, area information, and rest rooms.
Closest airport
Bemidji Regional Airport (BJI)
Car Rental Agencies
Enterprise
1-800-261-7331 (national)
1-218-759-9960 (local)
Alamo National
1-800-332-7133 (national)
1-218-751-1880 (local)
Hertz
1-800-654-3131 (national)
1-218-751-0063 (local)
clv@cord.edu
1.800.222.4750
