NISSWA AREA EVENTS

Brainerd Jaycees Ice Fishing Extravaganza

Saturday, February 1, 2025

Head outside to spend a few hours on the ice on Hole-in-the-Day Bay on Gull Lake for the 35th annual Brainerd Jaycees Ice Fishing Extravaganza. Thousands of anglers will again claim a hole in the ice off Highway 371 just south of downtown Nisswa from noon to 3 p.m. Saturday, February 1, with hopes of catching a fish that will net them a big prize. Proceeds from the contest benefit area charities, most notably Confidence Learning Center.

Nisswa Winter Jubilee

Friday-Sunday, February 14-16, 2025

Continue your celebration of winter and the outdoors by venturing to Nisswa for the 52nd annual Nisswa Winter Jubilee! Enter the snow sculpture contest, search for the medallion, try your hand at the wood splitting contest, gather your friends for smoosh racing — the fun never ends! If outdoor winter fun isn’t for you, check out the cornhole tournament, live music and dancing at The Pickle Factory and the Nisswa American Legion. The Nisswa Fire Department hosts its annual fishing derby from noon-2 p.m. Sunday, February 16, on Nisswa Lake. The cost is just $5 per hole — a perfect family friendly fishing contest!

Brainerd Jaycees Run For The Lakes

Friday-Saturday, May 2-3, 2025

If you like running, consider participating in the 18th annual Brainerd Jaycees Run for the Lakes, which offers a marathon, half marathon, relay marathon, 10K and 5K races, as well as a 1K kids run. The full marathon course is certified by US Track and Field and is a Boston Marathon qualifier. No matter the length of race you choose, the route will take you through the beautiful scenery that Nisswa has to offer. All proceeds from the volunteer-run race are donated to nonprofits in the Nisswa area.

Lakes Jam Music Festival

Thursday-Saturday, June 26-28, 2025

Country and rock fans alike flock to Brainerd International Raceway for Lakes Jam, an annual outdoor music festival that unites fans of both music genres and of all ages for three days of great music. BIR, located between Nisswa and Baxter on Highway 371, is an excellent venue for this event. Headliners this year include Corey Kent, Riley Green, Gary Allan, Raelynn, George Birge and more! Visit lakesjam.com to find all the performers.

Nisswa Firecracker Run Up North

Saturday, July 5, 2025

The Nisswa Firecracker 10K, 5K and Kids Run will wrap up Nisswa’s celebration of Freedom Days on Saturday, July 5. Known for its laid-back atmosphere, the Nisswa Firecracker Run Up North boasts a Slip n’ Slide, a bubble machine, crawfish boil and free PBR at the finish line. The race starts on Main Street in Nisswa and weaves through town on a scenic tour along Lower Cullen Lake, finishing at the Nisswa Community Center. A great race for the whole family!

Lakes Area Music Festival

July & August 2025

The Lakes Area Music Festival — established in 2009 by area resident Scott Lykins — returns for its 17th annual season in July 2025. The music festival connects the performers and audience through classical music and inspiring education. Performances range from chamber music and symphonic orchestra to productions of opera and ballet. Artists from the top orchestras and opera companies in the world, including the New York Philharmonic, San Francisco Symphony and Metropolitan Opera, travel to central Minnesota. Concerts are scheduled over the first three weeks in August. More information can be found at lakesareamusic.org.

Nisswa Crazy Days

Friday-Saturday, August 8-9, 2025

Nisswa retailers go a little crazy and offer crazy discounts during Nisswa Crazy Days. Merchandise lines the sidewalks and spills out onto the street as shoppers pack the town to browse for good buys. Whether you are looking for home decor, clothing, artwork, toys or shoes, there’s something for everyone! Come early to get the best deals before they are gone. This long-standing tradition is a can’t miss for locals and visitors alike!

Lucas Oil Nhra Nationals At Brainerd International Raceway

Thursday-Sunday, August 14-17, 2025

The Lucas Oil NHRA Nationals attracts thousands of race fans to Brainerd International Raceway, located just minutes from Nisswa. This event features the world’s best drag racers, fastest cars, the most loyal race fans and an experience like no other. At center stage are four days of ground-pounding, lightning fast, blow your mind drag racing at BIR — the fastest drag strip in the country.

Pga Tour Americas Crmc Championship Golf Tournament

Thursday-Sunday, August 28-31, 2025 - Cragun’s Legacy Courses

For the fourth year, Cragun’s Legacy Courses will host the CRMC Championship Golf Tournament. The CRMC Championship was the first PGA Tour Canada tournament on United States soil and the second PGA-sanctioned event in Minnesota. In 2024, the event became a PGA Tour of Americas tournament. CRMC is the Title Sponsor of the 2025 CRMC Championship. More information and tickets can be found at crmcchampionship.com.

Lakes Area Food Shelf Tour Of Homes

Thursday-Saturday, October 16-18, 2025

Be inspired by talented Lakes Area merchants and interior designers who join together to create a holiday experience you will remember. Tour participants will be shuttled to private homes that are beautifully decorated for the upcoming holidays including Fall, Thanksgiving and Christmas. Before or after your tour, enjoy the day shopping at the fabulous boutiques, eating at charming restaurants, and experiencing all that makes the Lakes Area so special.

Spring

Fish our lakes

The walleye and northern pike fishing opener is in May and you'll find the Chamber's Welcome Wanigan on Gull Lake, doling out hot coffee and doughnuts to anglers.

Enjoy our beauty