Rain or shine, they keep strumming at the Silver Creek International Ukulele Carnival

TWO HARBORS, Minn. — Over 300 musicians, holding ukuleles of all shapes, materials and shades, sit row after row in folding chairs.

It’s an unexpected sight — and sound — in the middle of the Lake County Fairgrounds in Two Harbors, Minnesota.

They fill the fairgrounds’ largest metal building, temporarily transformed into a performance hall. Music spills from the high, open garage doors, played by “ukesters” of all ages and skill levels.

It’s humid, with thunderstorms scattered across the weekend’s forecast. The uke players tune their instruments every few songs, but the weather doesn't dampen spirits.

The musicians come from far and wide, including Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, Colorado, Florida, Canada and even England, all for the 14th annual Silver Creek International Ukulele Carn