Area guide

The inside scoop on where to go, what to do or where to find the best of the best in the area cross category.

WHY MN IS "PRETTY GREAT"

8 Reasons you'll fall in love with the Brainerd Lakes Area

A Local Perspective: Featured in Redfin’s Guide to What Makes Minnesota Unique, with insights from Book the B.L.A. and Woods to Water Real Estate. 

 

At Woods to Water, we’ve made it our mission to share the beauty and lifestyle of the Brainerd Lakes Area with everyone who visits. As a local real estate agency, vacation rental management company, and passionate advocates for the “up north” experience, we believe that Minnesota is pretty great in more ways than one. From the natural landscapes that define our state to the lifestyle we embrace, here’s why Minnesota—and the Brainerd Lakes Area—is unlike anywhere else.

1. Minnesota’s Lakes Are…

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EAT LIKE A LOCAL: YOUR 2025 GUIDE FARMER'S MARKETS IN THE BLA 

We've officially hit farmers market season (may) in the BLA! 

There’s no better way to experience the heart of the Brainerd Lakes Area than by visiting one of our vibrant farmers markets. From fresh produce and homemade jams to local crafts and baked goods, these markets are a must-visit for anyone wanting to support local vendors and taste the best of what the region has to offer.

At Woods to Water, we’re passionate about supporting local businesses and products. Not only does shopping local help keep our community thriving, but it’s a great way to connect with the people who grow and create the items that make this area so special. In fact, we recently wrote about the many…

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st patty's in crosslake, mn - an annual tradition

As the weather warms up and the Brainerd Lakes Area begins to bloom, there’s no better time to enjoy the seasonal celebrations that bring the community together. One of the most highly anticipated events of the spring is the Crosslake St. Patrick's Day Parade & Celebration. This annual event is a favorite for locals and visitors alike, featuring a festive parade, lively activities, and lots of Irish spirit! 

51st ANNUAL ST PATRICK'S DAY CELEBRATION

Saturday, March 15, 2025 | Crosslake, MN

The 51st Annual St. Patrick's Day Parade & Celebration in Crosslake will be taking place on Saturday, March 16, 2025. It’s the perfect way to embrace the excitement of the season and enjoy the charm of one…

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Modern living in the BLA.

Pequot Lakes has always been a go-to destination for those who love the beauty of the Brainerd Lakes Area. It's also soon-to-be home to Trailside Estates — a thoughtfully designed new construction community that combines modern living with the charm and recreation opportunities that make this region so special. Whether you’re dreaming of a new cozy spot to call home or seeking the perfect blend of comfort and adventure, Trailside Estates delivers on every front.


A Home That Works for Your Lifestyle

New construction means starting fresh—with no surprises. At Trailside Estates, every home is crafted with high-quality materials and today’s most sought-after features, including:

  • Custom Kitchens: Granite…

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Winter in northern Minnesota isn’t for the faint of heart, but for those who embrace it, the season is nothing short of magical. It’s the backdrop for some of the most unique, exciting, and downright quirky events of the year. Whether you’re a visitor or a local, there’s always something happening to help you celebrate the coldest season in true "up north" style.

Ice Fest 2025

Jan 4th - 5th | Breezy point, mn

Fun all weekend long! A winter market, bags tournament, ice skating, bonfire and smores, hayrides, live music + more! Visit their Facebook page for all the details.

Antique Snowmobile Rendezvous

Jan 16th - 18th | HOLE IN THE DAY BAY, GULL LAKE, MN

Starting at Trailside Park in Pequot Lakes — antique and vintage snowmobile show,…

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In the Brainerd Lakes Area, our local farms aren’t just about producing food—they play a vital role in strengthening and sustaining the community. Buying local doesn’t just mean fresher produce and better flavor; it means investing in the people who make northern Minnesota thrive. And whether you’re picking up veggies at the farmer’s market, signing up for a CSA, or heading out to a U-pick farm, there are so many ways to access this homegrown goodness.

Why Buy Local?

When you buy from local farms, you’re not only enjoying the freshest fruits, vegetables, and meats, but you’re also supporting sustainability, boosting the local economy, and keeping family farms alive. These farms use eco-friendly methods and focus on producing food…

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ACBS Vintage Boat Week and International Show

SEPT 11 - SEPT 14 | BAR HARBOR SUPPER CLUB, NISSwa, MN
The Antique & Classic Boat Society's International Boat Show will return to Gull Lake September 8-15, 2024. The 49th edition of this renowned gathering is themed "Woods And Water II" and will again be situated at the famous Bar Harbor Supper Club in Lake Shore, Minnesota. The ACBS International Boat Show consistently draws some of the top vintage boats in the world. The opportunity to see over 100 of the finest boats on the planet assembled in one place will make this an extraordinary show! Don't miss it. See the event page for details. 

Cheers to 3 years - Anniversary Party at MN Traders Co.

SEPT 14 | MN…

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A sunset on Summer 2024 (sigh).

We've rounded up all of the local happenings in the lakes area to make the most of the last days of the season up north. Let us know if we'll see you!

FRIDAY

Meat Raffle at JJ's Pub

AUGUST 30 FROM 5:30 - 8:30PM | JJ'S PUB, BREEZY POINT, MN 

A weekly staple in the Lakes area. View their full weekly events schedule. 

Meat Raffle at Crosslake American Legion

AUGUST 30 AT 5:30PM | CROSSLAKE, MN
Every Friday! Tickets on sale beginning at 5:30pm + drawing begins at 6:30pm with dinner specials. See their event page for updates!

Live Music at Snarky Loon

AUGUST 30 FROM 6-9PM | JENKINS, MN
Live music by the Rusty Zippers & craft beer! See their event page here.

Meat Raffle…

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Off the Rails Spring Market

APRIL 26TH & 27TH | NORTHERN PACIFIC CENTER, BRAINERD

Browse over 150 vendors all in one place at the Northern Pacific Center. Early access and general admission tickets available for purchase here. For more general information on the event, visit their Facebook event page. 

Tequila and Dinner Night

MAY 3RD FROM 5:30-8:30PM | NATURE LINK RESORT 

Hosted by Prairie Bay Grill, enjoy a 4-course meal with tequila pairing options at Nature Link resort in Nisswa. Stay tuned to their Facebook page for more info + to register. 

Kentucky Derby Party 

MAY 4TH FROM 4-7PM | MN TRADERS CO., PEQUOT LAKES
Dress up in your best derby attire, enjoy a themed spread of food and featured cocktails with race viewing!…

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Hello, I’m Dan Eigen, also known as Walleyedan. My wife Shelley and I own and operate Walleyedan’s Guide Service. We have 6 guides that are working under our name and there are days we call on others to fill in during busy times. Of course, each of the guides is great, and have their favorite fishing techniques, species they like to target and their favorite lakes. I’ve been guiding my whole adult life — and looking back on my fishing career, it’s the people that I have met along the way that make it so special! We have so many repeat guests and I have so many memories with them! There’s one group in particular, from Iowa, that have renamed me “RockbassDan”. And it has become quite the joke! And this winter the story got even better as I was guiding…

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