Events

Local happenings and events such as celebrations, workshops, classes, events across the Lakes Area.

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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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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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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We're feeling merry & bright. 

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! 

Nisswa City of Lights

November 29th | DOWNTOWN NISSWA, MN

11:00am — Food Vendors open on Main Street near the Chamber

3:30pm — Main Street closes (no parking!) – Big Axe Brewery to Main Street Ale House

3:30pm — Polar Express Storytelling (limited seating) - Caboose (across the street from Pioneer Village)

4pm — Bonfires will be lit along the Paul Bunyan Trail

4pm — Blinky Lights for sale on Main Street

4-5pm — Wadena/CLC Community Bands Brass Ensemble - RW Jewelers Patio

4pm — Polar Express Storytelling (limited seating) - Caboose (across the street from…

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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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