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, outdoor activities, and classic lakes-area energy together for a full weekend of cold-weather fun.

Event Details:

• Live ice carving and sculpture displays
• Winter games and interactive activities
• Food and beverages available throughout the resort
• Some activities may require registration — see event page for details

2026 PEQUOT LAKES ANTIQUE SNOWMOBILE RENDEZVOUS

Dates: January 22–24, 2026
Location: Pequot Lakes, MN (Multiple Locations) | Event Info: https://www.facebook.com/events/1754343585260685/

A long-standing winter tradition celebrating antique snowmobiles, trail riding, and the strong snowmobile culture of the lakes area.

Event Schedule Highlights:

• Thursday evening shop night and potluck
• Friday trail ride along the Paul Bunyan Trail and afternoon bonfire
• Saturday show and swap meet at Trailside Park, performance demos, and evening banquet

THE 36TH ANNUAL BRAINERD JAYCEES ICE FISHING EXTRAVAGANZA

Date: January 31, 2026 | Time: Noon – 3:00 PM
Location: Hole-in-the-Day Bay, Gull Lake | Event Info: https://www.icefishing.org/

One of the largest charitable ice fishing contests in the world, drawing thousands of anglers to Gull Lake each winter.

Event Details:

• Open to all experience levels
• Major prizes including cash, vehicles, and gear
• Proceeds support local community projects
• Tickets and official rules required

Helpful links available on the event website include ticket locations, prize lists, and official rules.

2026 WINTERFEST IN CROSSLAKE

Dates: February 5–7, 2026
Location: Crosslake, MN (Multiple Locations) | Event Info: https://business.crosslake.com/events/Details/2026-winterfest-in-crosslake-1412268?sourceTypeId=Website

WinterFest is a multi-day celebration that takes over Crosslake with outdoor activities, community events, and winter fun for all ages.

Event Details:

• Town-wide winter festival
• Outdoor games, contests, and family-friendly activities
• Events hosted at multiple locations throughout Crosslake

54TH ANNUAL NISSWA WINTER JUBILEE

Dates: February 13–15, 2026
Location: Nisswa, MN (Multiple Locations) | Event Info:
https://www.facebook.com/NisswaWinterJubilee/
https://business.nisswa.com/events/details/nisswa-winter-jubilee-2026-55152

Now in its 54th year, the Nisswa Winter Jubilee is one of the area’s most iconic winter celebrations, bringing together classic traditions, downtown events, and family-friendly fun.

Event Details:

• Multi-day winter festival across downtown Nisswa
• Outdoor games, contests, and community activities
• Signature Jubilee traditions and entertainment throughout the weekend

TRIPLE FEST 2026

Dates: February 20–21, 2026
Location: Breezy Point Resort & Conference Center | Event Info: https://breezypointresort.com/event/triple-fest-2026/

Triple Fest blends ice golf, snow golf, and winter camaraderie into a two-day event that’s equal parts competition and celebration.

Event Details:

• Ice and snow golf courses
• Individual and team play options
• Après-style social events and entertainment
• Registration required

GULL LAKE FROZEN FORE – THE ULTIMATE WINTER PARTY

Date: February 28, 2026
Location: Gull Lake Area (Multiple Participating Locations) | Event Info: https://campconfidence.com/event/gull-lake-frozen-fore/

Frozen Fore is a one-day, pub crawl–style winter event combining golf-themed games, food and drink specials, live music, and transportation around Gull Lake.

Event Details:

• Event Hours: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Bussing: 10:30 AM – 6:30 PM
• After-parties at select locations
• Tickets required and often sell out in advance

LOCAL LODGING RECOMMENDATIONS

Planning a winter weekend around one (or more) of these events? Make the most of your stay with a vacation home designed for winter comfort.

Woods to Water Vacation Homes | Book the BLA offers a curated collection of premier vacation rentals across the Brainerd Lakes Area — thoughtfully designed to host you and your crew all winter long. From cozy cabins to spacious homes perfect for group getaways, our properties place you close to the events, trails, dining, and winter experiences that make this season so memorable.

Visit our website to explore the full portfolio and find the perfect home base for your Up North winter adventure. bookthebla.com