Woods to Water Blog - Colton Maher's Blog

How to Up North: Winter Events Guide 2026

Winter in the Brainerd Lakes Area is more than snow and frozen lakes — it’s packed with iconic events, long-standing traditions, and community celebrations that make the season something locals look forward to every year. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or planning a full winter getaway, these annual events offer the perfect reason to embrace Up North in its truest form.

Below is a chronological guide to the can’t-miss winter events happening across the area in 2026.

ICE FEST

Dates: January 9–10, 2026
Location: Breezy Point Resort & Conference Center | Event Info: https://breezypointresort.com/event/ice-fest-3/

Ice Fest at Breezy Point Resort is a winter staple that brings ice artistry,…

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MERRY + BRIGHT IN THE BLA!

There's no shortage of Christmas events this year in the Brainerd Lakes — head out and get into the spirit for the best time of year! 

Woods to Water Winter Events & Holiday Happenings
Your seasonal guide to the best of the Brainerd Lakes Area, from glowing lights to lakefront memories.

Whether you’re visiting for a cozy weekend or spending the season up north, we’ve rounded up the most magical happenings around the Brainerd Lakes Area to help you plan your stay. From small-town traditions to holiday markets, festive drinks to tree shopping, here’s your go-to guide for winter magic in the B.L.A.

NOVEMBER 27–29

Sertoma Winter Wonderland Opening Weekend
5:30 PM – 8:00 PM | Northland Arboretum, Brainerd
Drive…

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Celebrate Labor Day + Kick Off Fall with Woods to Water

The last long weekend of summer is here! Whether you’re catching live music, teeing off at a PGA Tour Americas event, or sneaking in one last lakeside getaway, the Brainerd Lakes Area is packed with ways to celebrate Labor Day week.

We’ve rounded up the highlights across Nisswa, Crosslake, and Pequot Lakes so you can plan your perfect weekend.

FEATURE EVENT: CRMC Championship – PGA Tour Americas

When: Thursday–Sunday, Aug 21–24, 2025
Where: Cragun’s Legacy Courses, Brainerd

World-class golf comes to the Lakes Area! Book the BLA is proud to be a community sponsor of the CRMC Championship, part of PGA Tour Americas. Don’t miss this premier event showcasing top golfers on one of…

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Fall Festivals & Events in the Brainerd Lakes Area

When the air turns crisp and the trees light up in shades of red, orange, and gold, the Brainerd Lakes Area comes alive with autumn traditions. From BBQ ribs and chili cook-offs to Oktoberfest steins, haunted sheds, and even a golf tournament that doesn’t take itself too seriously, fall here means gathering together to celebrate the season.

Here’s your Woods to Water guide to the can’t-miss fall happenings in 2025 — with direct links to full schedules, tickets, and event details.

NISSWA FALL FEST & SMOKIN' HOT BBQ CHALLENGE

September 20, 2025 | Nisswa, MN
Details & Tickets: See the full schedule here

Nisswa’s annual fall tradition marks its 50th year, alongside the 20th Smokin’ Hot…

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Your Guide to 2025 Fourth of July weekend in The BLA

Pequot Lakes • Nisswa • Brainerd • Cuyuna • Crosslake
Presented by Woods to Water Real Estate + Woods to Water Vacation Homes

Summer is in full swing, and the Brainerd Lakes Area is packed with parades, fireworks, music, and small-town charm. Here's your complete rundown of where to go and what to do across the region on July 3 and 4.

INSIDE TIPS: WHERE TO WATCH + WHAT TO DO

Thursday, July 3

  • Best fireworks: Pequot Lakes or Nisswa (both shows at dusk)

  • Best parade: Nisswa Freedom Days parade at 7 p.m.

  • Best cocktails and live music: Pequot Lakes Trailside Park (MN Traders Co. and live bands)

Friday, July 4

  • Best fireworks: Gull Lake (by boat) or…

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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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Manhattan Point on the Whitefish Chain

A one-stop-shop success story

At Woods to Water, we pride ourselves on being more than just a real estate company. We’re a partner at every step of the journey, helping our clients find, design, and manage properties that go beyond a home—they become memories, investments, and opportunities. Manhattan Point is a perfect example of how our one-stop-shop approach brings big dreams to life.


Photo by Jon Kreye

From Purchase to Possibility

When the owners of Manhattan Point set out to find their ideal property, they knew they needed a partner who understood the unique dynamics of the Brainerd Lakes Area. With the help of a Woods to Water real estate agent, Paul Augustinack, they found a newly built home…

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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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