Local Guide
Crosslake & the Whitefish Chain
Event Guide
The definitive year-round calendar of events, festivals, and things to do in Crosslake, Minnesota. From ice fishing on the Whitefish Chain to the 52-year-old 4th of July fireworks tradition.
The Scene
Every season has a reason to be here.
Crosslake is one of those places where the calendar matters. The town itself has around 2,400 residents, but thousands more pour in when the ice goes out in spring, the cabins open up in summer, the leaves turn in fall, and the lakes freeze over in winter. Each season has its own rhythm, its own traditions, and its own celebrations.
This guide covers every major event, festival, and activity worth knowing about. Whether you are planning a visit around the St. Patrick's Day Parade (declared the Best in Minnesota), looking for the best ice fishing on the Whitefish Chain, or just trying to figure out what to do with your family on a summer weekend, this is the page to bookmark.
I have lived here my whole life. I have fished these lakes, walked these trails, and stood in Town Square for the fireworks every single year. What follows is the real guide. Written like a local would tell a friend.
Winter
The Whitefish Chain at its most peaceful.
Winter on the Whitefish Chain is a different world. The lakes freeze solid, the snow piles up on the pine boughs, and the whole place gets quiet in a way summer visitors never experience. But quiet does not mean empty. Crosslake is a four-season town, and winter brings some of the best experiences of the year.
Ice Fishing on the Whitefish Chain
The Whitefish Chain is one of Minnesota's premier ice fishing destinations. Walleye, northern pike, and panfish through the ice. Guided trips available from local outfitters who know the chain's hot spots.
World-class walleye fishing through the ice on 14,000+ acres
Snowmobiling
Over 1,200 miles of groomed snowmobile trails crisscross the Brainerd Lakes Area. The Paul Bunyan State Trail is a key connector, running from Brainerd all the way north through Crosslake and on to Bemidji.
1,200+ miles of groomed trails. Paul Bunyan Trail runs right through Crosslake
Cross-Country Skiing & Snowshoeing
Miles of trails for classic and skate skiing, including sections of the Paul Bunyan Trail which follows a paved railroad bed from Brainerd to Bemidji. Snowshoe the woods around Cross Lake and the Whitefish Chain for a quiet winter experience.
Paul Bunyan Trail doubles as a world-class cross-country ski route
Crosslake WinterFest
February brings WinterFest to Crosslake with pond hockey, sledding, bonfires, trivia nights, bingo, scavenger hunts, and the famous SoupFest. A true community celebration that brings locals and visitors together during the heart of winter.
February. SoupFest, pond hockey, bonfires, and community fun
Frozen Fish & Fun Events
Community ice fishing tournaments and winter celebrations dot the calendar all season long. Local bars and restaurants stay busy with anglers coming off the ice looking for a warm meal and a cold drink.
Tournaments and celebrations throughout the winter season
Spring
The thaw brings the town back to life.
Spring in Crosslake is a slow, welcome thaw. The ice goes out on the chain, the boat lifts go back in the water, and the first big celebrations mark the end of winter. Two events define the season: a St. Patrick's Day parade so beloved it has been running for over 50 years and the walleye opener that brings boaters back to the chain by the hundreds.
52nd Annual St. Patrick's Day Parade & Celebration
MarchDeclared the Best St. Patrick's Day Parade in Minnesota. A 1.5-mile parade through Crosslake Town Square that has been a tradition since 1975. The celebration includes the Clover Dash 5K, the Lost Pot O' Gold medallion hunt, live music, and Irish specials at every bar and restaurant in town. Rain, snow, or shine, the parade goes on. It started as a remedy for cabin fever in the 1970s and has grown into one of the most beloved small-town parades in the state.
Best St. Patrick's Day Parade in Minnesota. A Crosslake tradition since 1975
Spring Fishing Opener
MayWalleye opener on the Whitefish Chain is a massive event. Boats cover the water, every restaurant in town is packed, and the energy is electric. It is the official start of the lake season and a rite of passage for anyone who loves fishing in Minnesota.
The official start of the lake season. Boats everywhere, restaurants packed
Loons & Lakes Festival
JuneHosted by the National Loon Center Foundation, this two-day free event celebrates Minnesota's state bird. Guided paddle excursions on the Whitefish Chain, educational programs about loon conservation, family-friendly activities, and talks from naturalists. A wonderful way to connect with the natural world of the North Woods.
Two-day free family festival hosted by the National Loon Center
Summer
Peak season on the Whitefish Chain.
This is what people come for. From late June through mid-August, the Whitefish Chain hums with activity. Pontoon boats crisscross the lakes, families fill the restaurants, and every weekend has an event. The 4th of July fireworks launched from Sand Island on Cross Lake have been a tradition for 56 years. Music in the Square fills Town Square every Saturday night. And somewhere on the chain, there is always live music playing on a patio overlooking the water.
Celebrate America 250 / 4th of July Fireworks
July
Crosslake's biggest summer event. Fireworks launched from Sand Island on Cross Lake, synchronized to music on Skeeter 101.5 FM. A 56-year tradition that draws boaters and spectators from across the Brainerd Lakes area. The whole weekend is packed with community celebrations.
56-year tradition. Fireworks over Cross Lake synchronized to music on the radio
Patriotic Boat Parade & Fly Over
4th of July weekend
Decorated boats parade across Cross Lake in a stunning display of red, white, and blue, with a military flyover overhead. A quintessential lakeside Fourth of July that captures everything great about summer on the Whitefish Chain.
Decorated boats and a military flyover on Cross Lake
Whitefish Chain Classic & Wood Boat Show
June / July
Over 39 years of antique and classic wooden boats on display. A beloved community event celebrating the history and craftsmanship of boating on the Whitefish Chain. Wooden runabouts, vintage Chris-Crafts, and meticulously restored lake boats line the shoreline.
39+ years of antique and classic wooden boats
Music in the Square
June through August
Free live music in Crosslake Town Square on Saturday nights all summer long. Bring a lawn chair, grab dinner from a local restaurant, and enjoy local and regional acts performing under the open sky. One of those simple, perfect summer traditions.
Free Saturday night concerts in Town Square. June through August
Summer Music on the Patio
Summer
Live music at Moonlite Bay's rooftop Pub 33, Ox Lake Tavern, and other lakeside venues throughout the summer. Lake views, cold drinks, and live music. It is hard to beat.
Moonlite Bay's Pub 33 rooftop, Ox Lake Tavern, and more
Crosslake Art & Craft Fairs
Summer
Local artisans showcase handmade goods throughout the summer season. Jewelry, woodworking, paintings, textiles, and more. A great place to find a piece of the North Woods to take home.
Local artisans with handmade jewelry, woodwork, paintings, and more
Crosslake Farmers Market
Summer
Fresh produce, baked goods, local honey, and handmade products from area farms and artisans. The market captures the flavor of the Lakes Area growing season.
Fresh local produce, baked goods, honey, and handmade products
Kayak & Paddleboard Events
Summer
Guided tours and races on the Whitefish Chain. Explore the interconnected lakes from the water level, paddle through narrow channels between lakes, and discover hidden spots you can only reach by kayak.
Guided tours and races on the chain's 14 interconnected lakes
Loons & Lakes Trivia
Monthly (Summer)
Monthly trivia nights at UpNorth Social hosted by the National Loon Center. Test your knowledge of loons, lakes, and Minnesota natural history over food and drinks.
Trivia nights at UpNorth Social hosted by the National Loon Center
Fall
The chain at its most beautiful.
Fall on the Whitefish Chain is a reward for sticking around after the summer crowds leave. The water is still warm enough for a late-season boat ride, the fishing picks up as the fish feed before winter, and the fall colors along the Paul Bunyan Scenic Byway are nothing short of spectacular. Crosslake Days is the biggest fall festival on the chain, drawing thousands for chili, crafts, and live music against a backdrop of peak autumn color.
Crosslake Days Fall Festival
September / OctoberThe premier annual fall event on the Whitefish Chain. Art and craft fairs with 75+ vendors, a Chili Cook-off, the Hunt for the Lost Chili Pepper, Cider & Candlelight Tour at the Historic Log Village, Knights of Columbus Corn-Hole Tournament, a Street Dance with live music, and beautiful fall colors as the backdrop. This is the can't-miss event of the autumn season.
The biggest fall festival on the Whitefish Chain. 75+ vendors, chili, live music
Fall Colors on the Whitefish Chain
Late September / OctoberThe drive along the Paul Bunyan Scenic Byway during peak foliage is absolutely spectacular. Brilliant orange, red, and gold maples and oaks line the roads and shorelines. A boat ride through the fall colors on the chain is an unforgettable experience. Peak color typically hits in late September through early October.
Paul Bunyan Scenic Byway and boat rides through peak fall foliage
Hunting Season
NovemberDeer hunting opens in November and is a major tradition in the area. The North Woods fill with hunters from across the state and beyond. It is a quieter time on the lakes, but the woods come alive with the rhythm of the season.
Deer season is a North Woods tradition going back generations
Year-Round
Things to do any time of year.
Some things do not need a season. The Whitefish Chain, the Paul Bunyan Scenic Byway, the shopping and dining in Crosslake, these are constants. Here is the full picture of everything the area offers, no matter when you visit.
Boating on the Whitefish Chain
14 connected lakes, over 13,000 acres of water. Pontoon cruises, waterskiing, tubing, fishing, and exploring. Launch from the public access on Cross Lake or from your own private dock.
Paul Bunyan Scenic Byway
A 115-mile scenic drive through the heart of the Brainerd Lakes Area. Connects Crosslake to Pequot Lakes, Nisswa, Brainerd, and beyond. Gorgeous any season, but especially during fall colors.
Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area
World-class mountain biking, hiking, trail riding, and clear mine-lake fishing and diving. Just minutes from Crosslake. The Cuyuna range is one of the top mountain bike destinations in the Midwest.
Crosslake Dam Fishing
Fish from the pier at the Crosslake Dam year-round. A popular fishing spot with easy access and good action for walleye, northern, and panfish. No boat required.
National Loon Center
Education and conservation of Minnesota's state bird. Exhibits, educational programs, and prime loon-watching on the Whitefish Chain. A wonderful stop for families and nature lovers.
Golf
Several golf courses in the area including Whitefish Golf Club and Crosslake Golf Course. Tee off surrounded by North Woods scenery.
Shopping in Crosslake
Boutiques, antique shops, and local retailers in Town Square and along the main drag. One-of-a-kind finds from local makers and curated shops.
Dining on the Chain
From Rafferty's Pizza to Moonlite Bay to Maucieri's Italian Bistro, the Whitefish Chain has a dining scene that surprises everyone who visits. Boat-up dining is a way of life here.
Local Knowledge
Tips for Making the Most of Your Visit
St. Patrick's Day fills up fast.
If you are coming for the parade, book lodging early. People come from across the state for this one. Hotels and cabins fill up weeks in advance. The Clover Dash 5K route is beautiful but hilly, bring good shoes.
4th of July on the water is the move.
The best place to watch the fireworks is from a boat on Cross Lake. Anchor near Sand Island early and settle in for the show. Tune your radio to Skeeter 101.5 FM for the synchronized soundtrack.
Fall colors peak late September.
The first two weeks of October can also be stunning depending on the weather. The drive from Crosslake north on the Paul Bunyan Scenic Byway is the most beautiful route. For a boat ride through fall color, launch on Lower Whitefish.
WinterFest is the hidden gem.
If you want to experience Crosslake the way locals do, come for WinterFest in February. SoupFest, pond hockey, and a bonfire on the ice. It is small, authentic, and exactly what a small-town winter celebration should be.
Ice fishing guides are worth it.
If you are new to ice fishing on the chain, hire a guide. They know the structure, the hot spots, and which lakes are producing. A half-day guided trip will put you on more fish than a week of trial and error.
The Whitefish Chain never gets old.
I have lived here my whole life and I am still discovering new coves, sandbars, and quiet spots. The chain is 14 lakes with over 100 miles of shoreline. You could explore every weekend of the year and still not see it all.
Make the Chain your backyard.
12388 Brookwood Circle puts you right on the Whitefish Chain. Walk to your dock. Launch your boat. Join the community that lives for these lakes year-round.