Played on August 3, 2021

Reviewed by the Pink Putter

On the afternoon of National Night Out 2021, Mr. Tee received a text from his acquaintance, Joe Beuckman about an Alice in Wonderland themed mini golf course that popped up in his neighborhood to celebrate the occasion. We had no idea what to expect, but we skipped our own block’s party and took the quick 10 minute drive north to Forest Dale Road in New Brighton, MN.

Rating

Upon our arrival, we were immediately greeted by the owners of the house we parked in front of with a putter to test out their Cheshire Cat themed hole and an offer for a cocktail. We were impressed. After making our way down the block to four different holes in four different front yards, we finally met the mastermind behind this project, Clair Anderson. Clair came up with the idea and got her neighbors and family on board. Clair, her daughter Violet and her husband worked for months with their neighbors (through weekly craft groups) to help make these unique mini golf creations.

As we continued down the block and into a cul-de-sac (appropriately named Mimosa Lane) towards Hole 10, there was a large cookout gathering with music, children playing and lots of food. Everyone was having a great time and enjoying the end of the course. They even had a table with name tags, a mini golf map, scorecards and a box to drop your completed scorecards in for a chance to win a prize.

The entire event was fun, successful and a truly impressive effort for a one night event. And what was lacking in durability and playability was by far made up for in creativity and imagination. We even heard rumors of a State Fair themed course for 2022. If that’s the case, we’ll be back for sure.

Pros
For the community by the community
Imaginative and Creative
Great way to meet neighbors

Cons
Not every hole was super durable or played well/easily

Nerdy Notes

• 10 holes, no par
• Each hole was located in a different yard along Forest Dale Road and Mimosa Lane
• Project was created by Clair Anderson with the help of family and neighbors
• Many of the holes were accompanied by appropriately themed snacks and drinks