November in the Willmar Lakes Area brings a perfect mix of cozy community fun, live entertainment, and festive spirit! Whether you’re ready to kick off the holidays, support local students on stage, or get outdoors before winter settles in, this month is packed with events for all ages. Here are some of the highlights you won’t want to miss!

Here are some of the events we’d like to highlight this month:

November 1-2 – West Central Singers Fall Concert
Enjoy an inspiring evening of vocal harmony with the talented West Central Singers. Their annual fall concert is the perfect way to welcome November with beautiful choral music.

November 2 – Wild Henke Showdown Kids Fun Day
Calling all young cowboys & cowgirls! This event at Smilin’ D Arena & Events in Belgrade is all about kids (18 & under) showing off their rodeo-/skills-based talents. Kids can take part in ten fun rodeo-style events at Smilin’ D Arena in Belgrade. Prizes, trophies, and plenty of energy!

November 6-8 – Fall Business Crawl in Willmar
Shop local and win prizes! Pick up a punch card at participating Willmar businesses and enjoy deals, giveaways, and a chance to win. Each participating business offers promotions, seasonal specials, and a chance to explore the local retail scene. It’s a fun way to support small businesses and maybe find something special.

November 6-9 – Willmar High School Music Department Presents “School of Rock: The Musical”
Don’t miss this high-energy performance by the talented Willmar High School students. Rock out as they take the stage for a lively, rock-infused musical based on the hit film/production. It’s energetic, fun, and perfect for a night out. Get your tickets early!

November 7-9 – Home for the Holidays in New London
Head over to New London for a charming holiday-kickoff event. Think festive shopping at boutiques, cozy treats, seasonal decorations, and a whole town embracing the holiday feel. If you’d like to get a jump on holiday decor, find unique gifts, or just enjoy a relaxed day in a smaller town setting, this is the perfect stop.

November 9-11 – 2025 Veterans Day Observance Display
Take time to stop by this annual display honoring the service and sacrifice of our nation’s veterans. Featuring over 7,000 original military items—from the Civil War through today—this meaningful exhibit tells the stories behind the service. Don’t miss the Veterans Day Program on November 11 at 7:30 p.m.

November 13 – Ladies Day at Furniture Plus, Elmquist Jewelers, B’s Chocolates, and Stacy’s Nursery
Four local businesses — Furniture Plus, Elmquist Jewelers, B’s Chocolates, and Stacy’s Nursery — are teaming up for a special day out. You’ll create Christmas Wish Lists, shop special deals, sign up for giveaways, and enjoy a relaxed “girls-day” feel. It’s ideal for friends, mothers & daughters, or anyone wanting a fun local shopping experience.

November 14-16 – Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre Experience “Boot Scootin’ Betrayal”
Get your cowboy boots ready for a night of mystery, mischief, and laughter! Enjoy dinner and a lively whodunit that will keep you guessing till the end.

November 14-16 – MACCRAY High School Presents “The SpongeBob Musical”
Another student production — this one is full of color, humor, and fun for all ages. Expect energetic music, quirky characters, and a big dose of laugh-out-loud moments. Great for families, especially those with younger kids who want their first live theatrical experience.

November 14 – The Barricade Boys: Broadway Party
Direct from London’s West End, this group brings powerhouse vocals with Broadway hits for a one-night performance. Expect high-energy, polished artistry, and show-stopping numbers. If you’re a theatre buff or just love live vocals done well, this is your kind of night.

November 15 – Uffda Cooking Presents The Autumn Table
Indulge in a 7-course tasting menu featuring specialty cocktails and live music. Please come dressed for a fine-dining experience — it’s an evening of elegance and flavor you won’t want to miss. Space is limited to the first 50 guests so get your tickets early!

November 15 – Stand Up Comedy at Intuition Brewing
Grab a craft beer, find a comfortable seat, and get ready to laugh. A lineup of comedians will bring the humor and the night is set in a relaxed brewery atmosphere in downtown Willmar. Great for date night, friends’ night out or simply unwinding with some good laughs.

November 20 – Michael Shynes & Chris Kroeze Concert
Two of Minnesota’s favourite singer-songwriters take the stage together. Expect heartfelt lyrics, acoustic drives, maybe some country/folk blends, and an evening of solid live music. If you appreciate good songwriting and live acoustic instrumentation, this event promises that vibe.

November 20-23 – New London-Spicer High School Presents “Mamma Mia!”
A feel-good show packed with ABBA hits, dance numbers, and energy. Expect fun, audience engagement, and a dose of nostalgia for anyone who loves musical theatre and pop songs. Tickets early are wise — high school productions like this often draw full houses.

November 22-December 26 – Festival of Trees
Step into the magic of the holidays at The Barn Theatre! Stroll through a display of beautifully decorated trees created by local organizations, open during business hours and during December’s production of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.

November 22 – Holidaze Event & Parade
Downtown Willmar lights up with one of the most anticipated events of the year! Enjoy a holiday movie, hot chocolate and cookies, kids’ crafts, photos with Santa, and the dazzling Holidaze Lighted Parade. Bundle up and join the fun!

November 23 – Prairie Winds Concert Band Fall Concert
Enjoy an hour of beautiful, live wind-band music. The group brings musical artistry to the community through a polished performance. A good way to slow down, listen, and appreciate live instrumentation.

November 27 – Turkey Leg 5K Run
Get a fun start to Thanksgiving Day with this 3.1-mile race (or walk) around Willmar’s streets. Walkers are welcome. There’s a prize for the largest family group and also for best-dressed participant (costumes encouraged!). A great way to burn some energy, enjoy morning fresh air, and engage in a community fitness tradition.

November 27-December 31 – Celebrate the Light of the World Christmas Light Display
One of Willmar’s beloved traditions: at Robbins Island Regional Park on Foot Lake, the peninsula comes alive with lights, reflections, festive scenes. This drive-through experience lets you enjoy the display from the warmth of your car — perfect for families, couples or simply an evening outing.

November 30 – Christmas Advent Service at the Old Log Church
Wrap up the month with a quiet, meaningful service in one of the area’s historic church settings. A peaceful way to transition from November’s bustle into December’s holiday rhythm.

Keep the fun going with karaoke nights at local bars, trivia nights at area breweries, live music performances, and Willmar WarHawk Home Games. Check the Events Calendar for the latest updates and additions.

With so many concerts, shows, and festive happenings, November is the perfect time to explore the Willmar Lakes Area.
Stay warm, shop local, and make memories as the season of gratitude and celebration begins!