November brings a little bit of everything to the Willmar Lakes Area, from toe-tapping musical performances and unique local experiences to festive holiday traditions that kick off the most wonderful time of the year. Whether you’re cheering on young performers, sampling local craft beer, shopping for the holidays, or enjoying the first twinkling Christmas lights of the season, there’s plenty to add to your calendar.

Make plans to gather with friends, enjoy a night out, or turn your favorite event into a weekend getaway. Here are some of the standout events happening throughout the Willmar Lakes Area this November!

November 1 – Mid-Minnesota Toast
Raise a glass to local craft beer at the second annual Mid-Minnesota Toast! Held at Foxhole Brewhouse, this afternoon celebration brings together four Minnesota breweries: Foxhole Brewhouse, Intuition Brewing, Goat Ridge Brewing Co., and Talking Waters Brewing Co. Sample their brews, celebrate the creativity of local beer makers, and discover the winners of the second annual Home Brewer Competition. The competition’s Top Four Best in Show winners earned the opportunity to brew their winning recipes at one of the participating breweries. This is a 21-and-older event, with a limited food menu available for purchase.

November 5-8 – WHS Presents: The Music Man
Enjoy a beloved Broadway classic when Willmar Senior High School presents The Music Man at the Brau Performing Arts Center. Follow the fast-talking traveling salesman Harold Hill as he arrives in a small Iowa town with a plan to sell band instruments and uniforms for a marching band he never intends to create. Filled with memorable characters, lively music, and classic musical comedy, this production is a great opportunity to support local student performers.

November 6-8 – ACGC Presents: Seussical the Musical
Step into the imaginative world of Dr. Seuss with ACGC’s high school production of Seussical the Musical. This colorful, fast-paced show brings together familiar characters and favorite stories in a fun-filled theatrical adventure. It’s a delightful outing for families and anyone who loves a little whimsy on stage.

November 7 – Wild Henke Showdown – A Day for the Kids
Calling all young cowboys and cowgirls! Head to Smilin’ D Arena & Events in Belgrade for the Wild Henke Showdown, a day dedicated to kids ages 18 and under who want to show off their rodeo-style skills. With ten fun events, plus prizes and trophies, this action-packed day celebrates friendly competition, confidence, and plenty of Western spirit.

November 7 – CatPAC Series: Platinum Duets
Get ready for a night of iconic duets when Phil Thompson and Tristana Ward bring Platinum Duets to the CatPAC Series. Backed by an all-star band, the longtime collaborators perform familiar hits spanning generations, from “You’re the One That I Want” and “Islands in the Stream” to “Endless Love” and “Easy Lover.” With Phil Thompson’s impressive touring background and a repertoire packed with singalong favorites, this concert promises an evening of nostalgia, harmony, and incredible live music.

November 7 – Deuces Wild Dueling Pianos at the Willmar VFW
Get ready to clap, laugh, sing, and join the fun when Dave and Ted of Deuces Wild Dueling Pianos take the stage at the Willmar VFW. With more than 25 years of performances across the United States and beyond, this high-energy duo combines music, comedy, and plenty of audience participation. Expect an entertaining night where the crowd is part of the show!

November 9-11 – 2026 Veterans Day Observance Display
Take a moment to honor the service and sacrifice of America’s veterans at this annual observance display. Featuring more than 7,000 original military items spanning the Civil War through today, the exhibit offers a meaningful look at the history and stories behind military service. Be sure to attend the Veterans Day Program on November 11 at 7:30 p.m.

November 12 – Ladies Day at Furniture Plus, Elmquist Jewelers, B’s Chocolates, Luminaries, Mainstream Boutique and Stacy’s Nursery
Gather your friends for a special day of shopping during Ladies Day, featuring six local businesses: Furniture Plus, Elmquist Jewelers, B’s Chocolates, Luminaries, Mainstream Boutique, and Stacy’s Nursery. Browse special deals, create Christmas wish lists, enter giveaways, and enjoy a fun day supporting local businesses. Whether you’re planning a girls’ day out or a mother-daughter shopping trip, it’s a great way to get a head start on holiday shopping.

November 13-15 – Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre Experience “Murder on Maui”
Paradise has a dark side! Join The Barn Theatre for Murder on Maui, a murder mystery dinner theatre experience filled with suspicious characters, surprising twists, and plenty of intrigue. What begins as a festive Hawaiian luau fundraiser quickly turns deadly, and as long-held secrets come to light, everyone becomes a suspect. Put on your detective hat and see if you can figure out whodunit before the mystery is solved!

November 13-15 – MACCRAY High School Presents: Annie
The sun will come out when MACCRAY High School presents the beloved musical Annie. Set in 1930s New York City, this heartwarming story follows a spirited young orphan determined to find the parents who left her years ago. Along the way, Annie encounters unforgettable characters, including the tough Miss Hannigan, billionaire Oliver Warbucks, and her lovable dog, Sandy. Featuring the classic song “Tomorrow,” this uplifting production is filled with hope, humor, and heart.

November 15 – West Central Singers Fall Concert
Celebrate Minnesota’s changing seasons through song at the West Central Singers’ Fall Concert. This talented vocal ensemble brings the months and seasons of the year to life through beautiful harmonies and a varied musical selection. Set aside some time to enjoy an inspiring afternoon or evening of live music.

November 19 – Michael Shynes & Chris Kroeze Concert
Enjoy an evening of live music as Minnesota singer-songwriters Michael Shynes and Chris Kroeze share the stage. Known for their songwriting and musical performances, the two artists bring a blend of heartfelt lyrics, acoustic sounds, and country and folk influences. It’s a great opportunity to experience talented Minnesota musicians in a live setting.

November 19-22 – NL-S High School Presents: Disney’s High School Musical
Get ready to “Getcha Head in the Game” when New London-Spicer High School brings Disney’s High School Musical to the stage! Follow basketball star Troy and brainy Gabriella as their shared love of singing challenges the expectations of their classmates at East High. Packed with familiar songs, energetic choreography, friendship, and plenty of Wildcat spirit, this lively production celebrates being yourself and working together.

November 20-22 – Glacial Ridge Curling Turkey Town Bonspiel
A new tradition is sliding into the Willmar Lakes Area! The first-ever Glacial Ridge Curling Turkey Town Bonspiel invites teams to hit the ice for a fun-filled curling competition. Sign up a team or come watch the action and cheer on the competitors. Whether you’re a curling enthusiast or simply curious about the sport, this inaugural event is a unique way to enjoy some friendly competition.

November 21 – Elk’s Hoop Shoot
Young basketball players can put their free-throw skills to the test at the Elks Hoop Shoot. This free contest is open to children ages 8–13 as of April 1, 2026, and welcomes players of all skill levels. Participants have the chance to advance from the local competition to district, state, regional, and even national levels. More than a basketball contest, the program encourages perseverance, dedication, and confidence.

November 21 – Holidaze Event & Parade
Downtown Willmar lights up for one of the community’s favorite holiday traditions! The Holidaze Event & Parade brings festive fun for all ages, including a holiday movie, hot chocolate and cookies, kids’ crafts, photos with Santa, and the dazzling Holidaze Lighted Parade. Bundle up, bring the family, and kick off the holiday season with an evening of community fun.

November 21-December 24 – Festival of Trees
Add a little holiday magic to your visit to The Barn Theatre during its annual Festival of Trees. Stroll through a display of beautifully decorated Christmas trees created by local organizations, each bringing its own creativity and seasonal style to the celebration. The display is open during business hours and during December performances of Prancer, making it a festive addition to your holiday outing.

November 21 – Live Comedy at Goat Ridge Brewing Co.
Pair your favorite craft beer with a few good laughs at Goat Ridge Brewing Co. in New London. This live comedy event offers a fun night out with friends, whether you’re a regular at the brewery or looking for something different to do on a Saturday evening. Come enjoy the atmosphere, sip a local brew, and let the comedians entertain you.

November 22 – Prairie Arts Chorale Fall Concert
Enjoy an afternoon or evening of beautiful choral music with Prairie Arts Chorale, the Singers of Southwestern Minnesota. Under the direction of Brandon Hurley, the ensemble performs a varied program featuring songs such as “Simple Gifts,” “Big Yellow Taxi,” “What a Wonderful World,” “O Magnum Mysterium,” and “Be Thou My Vision.” With a mix of familiar favorites and meaningful musical selections, this fall concert offers something for a range of musical tastes.

November 22 – Prairie Winds Concert Band Fall Concert
Take a break from the busy season and enjoy the sounds of live wind-band music at the Prairie Winds Concert Band Fall Concert. This talented group brings musical artistry to the stage with a polished performance showcasing the range and richness of wind-band instrumentation. It’s a wonderful way to spend an hour enjoying live music close to home.

November 26 – Turkey Leg 5K Run
Start Thanksgiving Day with a little movement and plenty of community spirit at the Turkey Leg 5K Run in Willmar. This 3.1-mile race welcomes walkers, too, making it a fun way for people of different fitness levels to join in. Prizes for the largest family group and best-dressed participant add to the fun, so feel free to show off your festive costumes. It’s a great way to enjoy the fresh morning air before settling in for the holiday feast!

November 26-December 31 – Celebrate the Light of the World Christmas Light Display
Make the start of the holiday season extra bright with a visit to the Celebrate the Light of the World Christmas Light Display at Robbins Island Regional Park. This beloved Willmar tradition transforms the peninsula along Foot Lake into a sparkling display of festive scenes and colorful lights. Enjoy the drive-through experience from the warmth of your vehicle, making it a wonderful outing for families, couples, and anyone ready to soak up some Christmas magic.

November 29 – Christmas Advent Service at the Old Log Church
Slow down and reflect on the meaning of the season at the Christmas Advent Service at the historic Old Log Church. This peaceful gathering offers an opportunity to pause amid the excitement of the holidays and prepare for the weeks ahead. It’s a meaningful way to close out November and welcome the Advent season.

November 30-December 31 – Kandi Kane Lane
Let the holiday fun continue at Kandi Kane Lane! Throughout December, visitors can enjoy free admission and explore a festive display of creatively decorated Christmas trees, with the chance to vote for their favorite. Make and take an ornament, write a letter to Santa, and join in a holiday scavenger hunt while soaking up the seasonal spirit. It’s a cheerful way for the whole family to celebrate the holidays and enjoy a little community creativity!

Keep Exploring the Willmar Lakes Area

The fun doesn’t stop with these featured events! November is also a great time to catch karaoke nights at local bars, test your knowledge at trivia nights in area breweries, enjoy live music, or cheer on the Willmar WarHawks at a home game.

And as the holiday season gets underway, you’ll find even more reasons to gather with friends and family, discover local favorites, and make new memories. Check the Willmar Lakes Area Events Calendar for the latest listings and updates, then start planning your next outing. We look forward to seeing you out exploring the Willmar Lakes Area!