5th Annual Beaver Classic Ice Fishing Tournament
2026-01-16 - 2026-01-17 | Arrowwod Resort and Conference Center, 2100 Arrowwood Lane NW, Alexandria, MN, 56308, United States
Registration is now open for the 5th Annual Beaver Classic, an exciting ice fishing event on Lake Darling.
This is a fishing event you don’t want to miss, featuring multiple opportunities to win payouts, prizes, raffle items, and silent auction treasures. Secure your spot early, as the event will reach capacity quickly.
Registration includes:

Entry into the ice fishing derby

A Beaver Classic t-shirt and swag bag

Banquet entry with buffet dinner

Friday night warm-up transportation

In case ice conditions are unsafe, the event will proceed with a contingency plan: an indoor ice fishing tournament with all prizes included. Please note that there are no refunds. Registration prices will increase after December 17th, and late registrations will not include a t-shirt or swag bag.
Click HERE for event details.
For questions, email beaverclassic2022@gmail.com. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this thrilling Minnesota ice fishing tradition!

1st Annual SNOfest
2026-01-17 12:00 - 19:00 (America/Chicago) | Carlos Creek Winery, 6693 County Road 34 NW, Alexandria, MN, 56308, United States
Get ready for SNOfest– a fun, NEW winter festival at Carlos Creek!

FREE ADMISSION!
What to Expect at SnoFest 2026 (activites are weather dependent):

Outside bars open 11:00am-5:00 pm
Jaw-dropping ice sculptures by MN Ice — truly next-level artistry you have to see to believe
Live ice sculpture carving demos 12-4 pm (2 sculptures carved – 2 hours each)
An epic outdoor Ice Bar serving seasonal cocktails, craft beer, mulled wine, mocktails + winter warmers
3pm ‘Craziest Winter Hat’ contest, 21+ only (winner gets a ‘hibernation stash!’)
2pm kid sled parade, meet by winery tasting room (prizes for participation!)

bring your own sled decorated in ‘winter olympic’ theme

Hot cocoa bar
Afternoon and evening live music
Beer poking (yes, it’s a real thing — and it’s delicious)
Carlos Creek wine, 22 Northmen beer, winter cocktails, NA options, and comfort-food eats
Sculpture lighting when it gets dark (around 5:15pm)
Snowshoe and cross-country ski trail available + snowshoe rentals (weather dependent)
Live music throughout the day

A full day celebrating community, winter, and the best of Minnesota living
Outdoor activities run until 6pm, and indoor live music from 6-9 pm in the 22 Northmen Brewing Co. taproom.

Candlelight Event at Lake Carlos State Park
2026-01-31 08:00 - 17:00, 2026-01-31 18:00 - 20:00, 2026-02-28 18:00 - 20:00 | Lake Carlos State Park, 2601 County Road 38 Northeast, Carlos, Minnesota, 56319
Come enjoy an evening in the park by candlelight and moonlight.
Walk the trail where you will be guided by the full moon, candles and lanterns. Then come warm up by the wood stove or enjoy snacks and refreshments in the Lakeview warming shelter.
There is no cost for this event, but a Minnesota state parks vehicle permit is required to enter the park ($7/day or $35/year). Get your vehicle permit in advance. Visit mndnr.gov/reservations, log in (or create an account), click on “entry permit,” select a duration of “one-day” ($7) or “year-round” ($35), and continue as directed. You’ll receive an email with a permit that can be printed and displayed in your vehicle during your visit.
If you are interested in volunteering with set-up, lighting or take-down of candles please call the park as well (320)993-3750.
***IMPORTANT*** This event will take place regardless of snow conditions, but the event may be canceled or changed at the last minute, due to poor weather or wind conditions on the day of the event. Please check the Lake Carlos web page or call the park for more information.

2nd Annual Beat the Winter Blues & Jazz Festival
2026-02-06 - 2026-02-08 | Gathered Oaks, 4550 County Hwy 34 NW, Alexandria, MN, 56308, United States
The 2nd Annual Beat the Winter Blues & Jazz Festival returns with three days with amazing musicians, winter warmth, and soulful connection.

Beat the Winter Blues & Jazz Festival
📍 Alexandria, MN | February 6–8, 2026

2 Venues:
Gathered Oaks (Friday & Saturday) + The Grand Hall at Carlos Creek (Sunday)
The 2nd Annual Beat the Winter Blues & Jazz Festival returns with three days of live music, winter warmth, and soulful connection. Think:

Jazz, blues, gospel & soul
Cozy indoor rooms + outdoor fire pits
Outdoor ice bar by Lake Charlie
Food vendors, drinks, and spaces to linger

This isn’t a rush-through-your-weekend festival.
It’s winter, done intentionally.
🎶 Festival Schedule
Friday | February 6 – Gathered Oaks
5:00 Indoor & Outdoor Spaces Activated. Ice bar, fire pits, food and drinks available for purchase
5:45 Seating | Music 6:30 PM – 9:30 PM
6:30 Kevin Burt
8:00 Danielle Nicole Acoustic Duo
Saturday | February 7 – Gathered Oaks
3:30 Indoor & Outdoor Spaces Activated. Ice bar, fire pits, food and drinks available for purchase
3:45 Seating | Music 4:30 PM – 9:30 PM
4:30 One Trick Pony
6:30 Dinner available for purchase – Caterer TBA
7:00 Michael Ward-Bergeman
8:15 Southside Aces
Sunday | February 8 – The Grand Hall at Carlos Creek
🎤 Gospel Roots Blues Brunch with Joyann Parker
Buffet brunch featuring pastries, egg bake, muffins, and fresh fruit
Brunch seating: 10:30 AM
General seating: 11:00 AM
Music: 11:30 AM–1:30 PM Joyann Parker Duo
✨ Back by popular demand, Joyann Parker returns for her Gospel Roots Blues Brunch – an uplifting, soulful close to the weekend. This year we’re adding a full brunch option at Carlos Creek Winery.
Tickets
🔥 EARLY BIRD Full Weekend Pass** – $100 (Save 10% + premium seating closest to the stage) This is the best deal. Ends Friday, Jan 9, 2026 at noon.
🎟 Full Weekend Pass – $100 (save 10%. Purchase by Jan 23.)
Day Passes:

Friday – $40 until Jan 23. $45 after Jan 23.
Saturday – $45 until Jan 23. $50 after Jan 23.
Sunday – $25 until Jan 23. $30 after Jan 23.
Add on: Sunday Buffet Brunch – $21.65 (+tax and service fees)

✨Join us for year two.✨
More music. More warmth. More reasons to embrace winter in Alexandria, MN.

2026 KXRA Alexandria Home Show
2026-04-11 10:00 - 17:00, 2026-04-12 11:00 - 15:00 | PrimeWest Health RCC, 802 3rd Ave W, Alexandria, MN, 56308, United States
Join us at the KXRA Alexandria Home Show
Explore everything from home remodelers and tree service to water remediation, boat dealers, and more to get ideas and answers for your home and lake life.

Free event

Free MN State Park Day
2026-04-25, 2026-06-13 | MN
On four days each year, all Minnesota state parks and state recreation areas offer free admission to everyone – no vehicle permits needed!

Free park days in 2026

Monday, January 19
Saturday, April 25
Saturday, June 13
Friday, November 27

Minnesota state parks are open year-round, and there’s a state park within 30 miles of most Minnesotans. With a free day in each season, it’s a great opportunity to get out there and explore someplace new – or visit an old favorite at a new time of year! Whether you stay for the whole weekend or just spend a few hours outside, you’ll make memories that will last a lifetime.
The entrance fee waiver for fee-free days does not cover amenity or user fees for activities like camping, rentals, or special tours.
The goal is to encourage families and friends to spend time together in nature. Research shows many health and wellness benefits to spending time in nature. According to ParkRx, contact with nature improves one’s physical, mental, and spiritual health. Getting outdoors makes exercise more fun and can boost mood and immunity. The American Psychological Association shares that exposure to nature is linked to benefits including improved attention, lower stress, reduced risk of psychiatric disorders and even increases in empathy and cooperation.

15th Annual Awake the Grapes 5K and 10K
2026-05-24 08:00 - 12:00 | Carlos Creek Winery, 6693 County Road 34 NW, Alexandria, MN, 56308, United States
Get ready for the 15th Annual Awake the Grapes 5K and 10K!
The Awake the Grapes 5K course will wind runners around the beautiful Carlos Creek Winery property and through the onsite vineyards.
The Awake the Grapes 10K course will lead runners on a picturesque race through the Carlos Creek Winery vineyards, out to County Road 34, along the east side of Lake Ida, east on County Road 61 to County Road 34 and back to Carlos Creek Winery.
Each course will have paved, gravel, and cross-country terrain.

After all racers have crossed the finish line, gather outside of the Carlos Creek Winery tasting room for the award ceremony. Medals will be presented to the top place in each age range for male and female runners participating in the 5K and 10K races. Overall top male and female awards will also be presented for the 5K and 10K races.

WALKERS ARE WELCOME TO REGISTER!!!
NO PETS ALLOWED ON THE COURSES
After all racers have crossed the finish line, gather outside of the Carlos Creek Winery tasting room for the award ceremony. Medals will be presented to the top place in each age range for male and female runners participating in the 5K and 10K races. Overall top male and female awards will also be presented for the 5K and 10K races.

*Registrations made prior to midnight on May 3rd will receive an event t-shirt*
All registrations made after after May 3rd will receive a drink ticket.
To register, follow the link and enter the promo code that will be provided on your voucher.

Event Schedule:
Sun, May 24, 2026 8:00 AM – Registration Opens
Sun, May 24, 2026 9:00 AM – 10k Run Starts
Sun, May 24, 2026 9:00 AM – Jack’s Public House Opens
Sun, May 24, 2026 9:00 AM – Sizzle Food Truck Opens
Sun, May 24, 2026 9:15 AM – 5k Run Starts
Sun, May 24, 2026 9:30 AM – Live Music Begins
Sun, May 24, 2026 10:00 AM – Carlos Creek Winery Tasting Room Opens
Sun, May 24, 2026 10:00 AM – 22 Northmen Brewing Co Opens
Sun, May 24, 2026 10:00 AM – Stoke Pizza Kitchen Opens
Sun, May 24, 2026 10:45 AM – Awards (after all racers have crossed the finish line)
Sun, May 24, 2026 11:00 AM – Sizzle Food Truck Closes

REGISTER

Summer Concert Series
2026-05-28 19:00 - 21:00, 2026-06-04 19:00 - 21:00, 2026-06-11 19:00 - 21:00, 2026-06-18 19:00 - 21:00, 2026-06-25 19:00 - 21:00, 2026-07-02 19:00 - 21:00 | Douglas County Courthouse Lawn, 305 8th Ave W, Alexandria, MN, 56308, United States
The Red Willow Arts Coalition presents the Summer Concert Series on the Courthouse Lawn in Alexandria Minnesota.

These weekly musical concerts run from late May through August. Red Willow Arts Coalition is proud to promote and support the Arts in Central Minnesota!
The courthouse lawn concerts have become one of the areas most popular social gatherings.
Every Thursday evening, friends and families gather on the lawn to picnic and listen to live music. The concerts are free to the public and supported by sponsorships from local businesses.
A wide variety of musical styles are sure to provide an entertaining family friendly evening. Concerts begin at 7:00pm, and conclude by 8:30, with a short break for announcements and to collect free will donations.
Popcorn and water are available for sale by local youth groups.
The Douglas County Courthouse property is smoke and alcohol free. Come and enjoy a Minnesota summer evening with friends and neighbors!
Rain Policy
In case of rain or bad weather, these concerts will be re-located to the Alexandria Area High School Performing Arts Center.
Cancellations will be announced to the area radio stations by 2:00pm. We will notify KXRA and KIKV radio stations. We’ll also post on Facebook and here on our website if a concert is cancelled.

Summer Season Opener at Country Blossom Farm
2026-05-30 10:00 - 19:00 | Country Blossom Farm, 1951 Englund Rd SW, Alexandria, MN, 56308, United States
Starting on May 30th, we will be open on Saturdays during the Summer! The hours will be as follows:
Store Hours- 10am-7pm
Bakery Hours- 10am-5pm
Outdoor Cider Bar- 11am-7pm
Happy Hour- 12pm-3pm $1 off 16oz CBF Hard Cider
Check out our events page on our website for Friday & Saturday events this Summer!
*We will offer some weekday open hours during berry season. The berries will let us know when they are ready, so please follow for updates. Please note, Outdoor Activities are NOT open until our Fall Season*
For all updates please call our store or check our Facebook/Instagram pages.

Sunday Afternoon Live Music
2026-05-31 13:00 - 16:00, 2026-06-07 13:00 - 16:00, 2026-06-14 13:00 - 16:00, 2026-06-21 13:00 - 16:00, 2026-06-28 13:00 - 16:00 | Carlos Creek Winery, 6693 County Road 34 NW, Alexandria, MN, 56308, United States
Ease into your summer Sunday with live music outdoors at Carlos Creek.
Every Sunday from 1–4 PM, they feature talented local and regional musicians, creating the perfect soundtrack for a relaxing afternoon of wine, conversation, and connection.
Sip on award-winning wines, seasonal cocktails/mocktails, brews, and Big Bruno Hard Cider — or opt for a non-alcoholic treat like our French Lemonade or Nitro Cold Brew. Hungry? Our wood-fired pizzas and shareable bites are available to enjoy alongside the music.

Whether you’re winding down the weekend or making it last a little longer, Sunday Music at Carlos Creek is the perfect way to spend your afternoon.

Every Sunday | 1–4 PM | Carlos Creek Wine Patio (or Tasting Room if bad weather)

2026 Minnesota Trap Shooting Championship
2026-06-15 - 2026-06-23 | Alexandria Shooting Park, 6533 County Rd 87, Alexandria, MN, 56308, United States
The Minnesota State High School Clay Target League Championship returns to Alexandria June 15–23, 2026, at Alexandria Shooting Park.
Recognized as the world’s largest youth shooting sport event, the championship will bring nearly 7,800 student athletes representing more than 350 high school teams to Alexandria.
Competition takes place on assigned tournament days throughout the nine-day championship, which is expected to draw nearly 30,000 athletes, coaches and spectators.
For tournament information, visit the Minnesota State High School Clay Target League and Alexandria Shooting Park websites.
For things to do in Alexandria during the event, read Trap Shooters: Welcome to Alexandria and stop by the Explore Alexandria information booth (A11) for local recommendations and visitor guides.
Interested in getting involved? Sign up to volunteer for a shift at the Explore Alexandria information booth.

Alexandria Farmers Market
2026-06-18 15:00 - 18:00 | Big Ole Central Park, 200 Broadway St, Alexandria, MN, 56308, United States
Alexandria Farmers Market | Fresh, Local, Seasonal

Experience the best of the season at the Alexandria Farmers Market, where local growers and makers bring fresh, high-quality products straight to the heart of downtown Alexandria. Held at Big Ole Park, this market is your go-to destination for farm-fresh produce, locally raised meats, and handcrafted goods.
Shop a full lineup of locally grown fruits and vegetables, including beans, beets, broccoli, cabbage, carrots, cucumbers, fresh herbs, lettuce, onions, peas, peppers, potatoes, pumpkins, raspberries, squash, strawberries, sweet corn, and tomatoes. You’ll also find beautiful cut flowers, along with locally sourced elk, lamb, beef, pork, and a delicious selection of homemade baked goods.
Whether you’re stocking up for the week, planning a lakeside meal, or simply enjoying a morning outdoors, the Alexandria Farmers Market offers a vibrant, community-centered shopping experience.
Location: Big Ole Park (Broadway & 2nd Ave), just across from The Hub on Broadway in Alexandria
Market Hours:

Mid-May through October: Saturdays, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Late June through October: Tuesdays, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Mid-June through October: Thursdays, 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM

Come early for the best selection and enjoy one of Alexandria’s favorite seasonal traditions.

Music in the Gardens
2026-06-19 18:30 - 20:30, 2026-06-26 18:30 - 20:30 | Legacy of the Lakes Museum, 205 3rd Ave W, Alexandria, 56308, United States
Join Legacy of the Lakes for their 2026 Music in the Gardens concert series.

Friday, June 19, 2026 | The Honeydogs | 6:30 – 8:30 PM
GET TICKETS | $10
Friday, June 26, 2026 | Jazz Women All Stars | 6:30 – 8:30 PM
GET TICKETS | $10
Friday, August 7 | Mick Sterling presents: Born to Run: A Celebration of the Music of Bruce Springsteen | 6:30 – 8:30 PM
GET TICKETS | $10

Purchase a concert series pass HERE

Summer Play Day at Country Blossom Farm
2026-06-20 10:00 - 19:00 | Country Blossom Farm, 1951 Englund Rd SW, Alexandria, MN, 56308, United States
Enjoy a special Summer Play Day at Country Blossom Farm on June 20 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
This one-day-only event offers a chance to enjoy Country Blossom Farm before the regular season opens in August. Activities include the giant bouncy pillow, bouncing farm animals, zip lines, Tire Mountain, Bubble Hut, swings, slides and duck races. The farm store and bakery will also be open.
Admission is $7 plus tax per person, or free with the purchase of a 2026 Country Blossom Farm Season Pass.
For more information, visit www.countryblossomfarm.com.

Pizza and Live Music at Gathered Oaks
2026-06-22 16:30 - 20:30 | Gathered Oaks, 4550 County Hwy 34 NW, Alexandria, MN, 56308, United States
Enjoy an evening of wood-fired pizza and live music at Gathered Oaks this summer.
Every Monday beginning at 4:30 p.m., Gathered Oaks welcomes guests to relax on the lawn or patio while enjoying handcrafted pizza and performances by talented local musicians. Bring family and friends, settle in with a blanket or lawn chair, and spend a summer evening surrounded by great food, music and beautiful countryside views.
2026 Summer Music Schedule
June 22 | Robb Justice
June 29 | Andrew & Tessa Larson
July 6 | Jewelwood
July 13 | The Nobles
July 20 | Lizzy Thill
July 27 | Michael Shynes
August 3 | Nolan Weise
August 10 | Brooklyn Ostlund
Please note:
• No outside food or beverages permitted
• On-site lodging is available

Star Storm Fireworks Show
2026-07-04 19:00 - 22:30 | Arrowwod Resort and Conference Center, 2100 Arrowwood Lane NW, Alexandria, MN, 56308, United States
Celebrate America’s 250th birthday at Arrowwood Resort with the annual Star Storm Fireworks Show over Lake Darling.
Guests are invited to enjoy an evening of live music, lakeside views and Fourth of July festivities at one of Alexandria’s favorite holiday traditions. The Nobles are scheduled to perform on the resort’s front lawn at 7-10 p.m. The Star Storm Fireworks Show is expected to begin at approximately 10 p.m. (weather permitting)
Bring a blanket or lawn chair and enjoy the show from Arrowwood Resort’s lakeside lawn, or watch from the water on Lake Darling.
Food and beverages will be available for purchase at The Deck Bar and concession stands. Outside food, beverages and coolers are not permitted.
Parking is limited for non-hotel guests and is available for $20 per vehicle. No shuttle service will be provided.
For more information, visit www.arrowwoodresort.com or call 320-762-1124.
