Kandiyohi County

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Snowmobiling. Snowshoeing. Cross Country Skiing. Kicksledding. Ice Skating. Sledding. Fat Tire Biking. Ice Fishing. With so many fun outdoor activities to enjoy, we’re positive that every kind of outdoor enthusiast will enjoy a winter getaway in the Willmar Lakes Area!

Winter Outdoor Fun

For many, ice fishing is a time-honored tradition passed down through generations, fostering a sense of heritage and community. It’s a great blend of adventure, tranquility, and social interaction, making it a popular winter pastime. Click to find out more!

Just Hook It!

The 40th annual Spicer WinterFest has arrived! There are a lot of great events planned between January 13 – February 9, including the 7th Annual Kids Ice Fishing Derby, Frozen 5K Run/Walk, 20th Annual Polar Plunge, WinterFest Family Fun Day, fireworks, and so much more!

40th Annual Spicer WinterFest

The Willmar Lakes Area is full of attractions and activities to keep you warm during the winter months! But which ones are a “must-see” on your next visit to the area? Read this blog to find out!

Top Winter Attractions

ESCAPE TO ADVENTURE PASSPORT

Sign up and join thousands of adventurers like yourself exploring the best attractions, restaurants, shops and more in the Willmar Lakes Area. Check-in when you visit locations to earn points that are redeemable for entries for a chance to win future prize drawings.

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Join us for our first COLLABORATIVE BEER EVENT!

The Mid-Minnesota Toast will take place on March 17, 2025, at Foxhole Brewhouse. This inaugural beer event will feature unlimited samplings from our local breweries – Foxhole Brewhouse, Goat Ridge Brewing Co. & Intuition Brewing! You’ll get to enjoy live music, games and a special menu. Plus, we’re adding in a Home Brewer Competition!

More Details

Fish our lakes

The possibilities are endless on our 30 recreational lakes…boating, swimming, fishing, water skiing, tubing, canoeing, kayaking, paddle boating, hydro biking, paddle boarding and so much more!

Fishing Report

Explore our Trails

Surrounded by beautiful lakes and scenery…who wouldn’t take a hike or a leisurely bike ride to enjoy the view? With miles of trials to choose from, you can always find new places to explore.

Trail Report

Prime Fishing

discover A
True Fisherman’s
paradise

Explore Our Lakes

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Experience Lakes Country

Should you decide to stay for a week or a lifetime, there’s always more to discover in the communities of the Willmar Lakes Area.

Our Communities

Fresh off The blog

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Spicer Ice Castle Then & Now

Have you ever wondered how the Spicer Ice Castle got it’s start? Well, thanks to the Kandiyohi County Historical Society, the original stories printed in the local paper will be forever preserved.

The story goes way back to January…

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Just for Planners

The Willmar Lakes Area Convention & Visitors Bureau is your resource for information on the Willmar Lakes Area. Our staff will work with you to tailor our services to meet your needs! Think of us as a free assistant, working for you, to make sure your stay is enjoyable and your meeting is a success!

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Submit an Event

Got an event you’re hosting in one of our communities? Send us the details so we can help spread the word!

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