Chili Cook-Off

Cabin fever got you down? Then celebrate winter's waning days in Longville! The festivities start early at the Docksider with a chill cook-off, where you can vote for the winners!
After that, make a short trip over to Girl Lake for a winter fireworks display.
Chili cook-off begins 12:00 pm at the Docksider in Longville. Entry fee: $5
Tasting fee: $5
CASH PRIZES for 1st, 2nd and 3rd places.
(All proceeds go toward the cost of the evening's fireworks.)
For more information on the Chili Cook-Off, contact Sara at the Docksider at (218) 363-2565.

Celebrate the Light of the World

The Celebrate the Light of the World display at the Koosman home began as one man’s idea and grew into an amazing family tradition. As the lights have grown so has their family and their love for their community. After ten years, the Koosmans have handed the responsibility for Celebrate the Light of the World to Willmar Fests. The tradition will continue for years to come for the Willmar Lakes Area and all those who come to see and Celebrate the Light of the World!

Cats Incredible Catfish Days

This popular two-day fishing tournament brings in some of North Americas top anglers. There are also plenty of fun events/activities and tasty eats for the whole family.

Cardboard Boat Races at Moonlite Bay

The Annual Cardboard Boat Races will be sponsored by Moonlite Bay Family Restaurant & Bar with special thanks to Central Package & Display and the White Fish Yacht Club. Cash Prizes will be awarded!

The boats are constructed of nothing but cardboard and Elmer's glue. Come watch them attempt to float and compete in some heated racing action.

More information and Cardboard Boat Kits are available by calling Moonlite Bay at 218-692-3575.

Candlelight Ski

The event will begin at 5:30 p.m. as the moon begins to rise. The night's activities will include hiking a 1-mile segment of the Platte River Trail, which will be lit with luminaries. When you need to warm up, join us at the bonfire and enjoy hot drinks and refreshments provided by the Friends of Crane Meadows NWR.

Trails will be lit by candle luminaries and participants are encouraged to hike. There will be a short loop for snowshoeing and a longer one for skiing. If no snow, hiking will be encouraged.

Burnsville Festival Fire Muster

Burnsville Festival and Fire Muster is a FREE, three-day diverse and inclusive community festival highlighting the unique qualities of Burnsville, MN and raising funds to support local non-profits. 

The festival provides a variety of multicultural activities for all ages with local and regional music and arts, history and culture, along with natural resources, education, agriculture, public safety, and much more. 

Brainerd Lakes Home Show & Expo

180+ VENDORS. ONE MASSIVE EVENT.

Brainerd’s BIGGEST tradeshow is BACK — and it’s packing a punch of excitement for one high-energy weekend on March 20 & 21!

2026 Brainerd Jaycees Ice Fishing Extravaganza

The Brainerd Jaycees is a non-profit organization made up of members between the ages of 18 to 40. The mission of the organization is to provide development opportunities that empower young people to create positive change. The organization hosts many events throughout the year and all proceeds raised get donated back to local charities and organizations.

Bold & Cold Winter Festival

Why not be BOLD during the coldest month of winter and come out and experience the COLD at our Annual Bold & Cold Winter Festival in Owatonna, MN! Stay tuned for event activities!
This weekend celebration has events and activities that are designed to highlight the Minnesota psyche of "cold noses and warm hearts."

Bluegrass and Lemonade in the Shade

Come on down for a free old-time bluegrass jam session at Gammelgarden
Museum! Bring a banjo, fiddle, guitar, dulcimer, harmonica, mandolin, ukulele,
cello, or bass and learn new tunes!

Play along, or just sit back and listen to old favorites,
played in a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere. Everyone is welcome to play along, sing, listen, or even
dance!

Lemonade and lawn chairs are provided for this outdoor family-friendly event. (If there's inclement weather, Bluegrass & Lemonade in the Shade will be held indoors in the Valkommen Hus.)