September in the Willmar Lakes Area is all about fall fun, golden fields, crisp evenings, and unforgettable experiences. From lively festivals and toe-tapping concerts to harvest traditions and Oktoberfest cheer, there’s no shortage of ways to explore, celebrate, and make memories. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a longtime local, this is the perfect month to dive into the heart of our community.

September 1 – 16th Annual Trolls Classic Car Show
Kick off Labor Day weekend with vintage cars, craft vendors, homemade goodies, and door prize drawings. A fun day for the whole family!

September 5 – Raymond Fire Department Night Golf
Take part in a glowing 18-hole scramble! The first nine holes include dinner, then light up the night with glowing golf balls and accessories for the second half. Limited spots—register early!

September 5-6 – Monson Lake Opry Festival
Central Minnesota’s best country music festival returns! Enjoy top acts like Kentucky Thunder, The Bellamy Brothers, and Pam Tillis. Camping available for the full weekend.

September 6 – Prairie Pothole Day
Celebrate the outdoors with shooting sports, Dock Dogs fun, axe throwing, and educational activities. FREE kids’ events include archery, BB gun shooting, and a climbing wall. Over 20 vendors, seminars, and competitions make it an action-packed day!

September 6-7 – Atwater Threshing Days
Step back in time with historical farming demonstrations, live music, food demos, and kids’ activities. Threshing grain, quilting, saw mills, treasure hunts, and a pedal pull—fun for all ages!

September 13 – Welcoming Week in Willmar
Celebrate the diversity of Willmar with music, dance, food, and family-friendly activities. Learn, share, and connect with our vibrant community.

September 13 – Foxtoberfest
Don your lederhosen and enjoy live music, German fare, a stein-holding contest, bean bags, and hammerschlagen!

September 13-14 – Willmar Gun Show
Explore the 28th annual Willmar Gun Show with door prizes every half hour. Admission is $10 (free for women, children under 16, and active military).

September 18-21, 25-28 – The Barn Theatre Presents: Exit Laughing
Laugh out loud with this adult comedy about three Southern ladies whose lives take a surprising turn. Witty, outrageous, and full of heart—perfect for a night out in downtown Willmar.

September 19 – 12th Annual Mayor’s Bike Ride
Join this free community ride and picnic! Mayors from Spicer, New London, and Willmar lead rides to Neer Park for a fun, family-friendly evening.

September 20 – Harvestfest Puppet Parade
Celebrate the first day of fall with a whimsical puppet parade from Little Theatre Auditorium to Neer Park. Enjoy live music, cultural performances, art, and food vendors in this one-of-a-kind community festival.

September 21 – 6th Annual Harvest Fest at Rustic Designs Flower Farm
Pick your own flowers, shop pumpkins and fall décor, and capture memorable photos in the colorful fields. Fun for the whole family!

September 27 – Oktoberfest at Goat Ridge Brewing Co.
Raise a stein and celebrate fall at this all-day Oktoberfest bash! Enjoy live polka and folk music, a stein-holding contest, delicious German-inspired food, and a limited-release FestBier to toast the season. With the Lowertown Market happening next door, it’s the perfect chance to shop, sip, and soak up the festive spirit. Prost!

September 27-28 – Willmar Country Quilters Guild Quilt Show “Harvest of Quilts”
See over 300 beautiful quilts, fabric art, and needlework pieces. Don’t miss live demonstrations, trunk shows, and the chance to purchase unique handmade items.

A variety of public cruises on Green Lake Cruises, trivia at breweries, karaoke nights and live music at area bars and restaurants round out the fun. More events will be added to our community calendar throughout the month. So for the most updated listing of events, check our full Events Calendar and start planning your ultimate September getaway!

September in the Willmar Lakes Area is your invitation to explore, celebrate, and make lasting memories. From festivals and live music to harvest fun and Oktoberfest cheer, there’s something for everyone. Plan your visit, gather your friends, and experience the best of fall in our beautiful lakeside communities.