Welcome to a winter wonderland in the Willmar Lakes Area, where January is brimming with excitement, adventure, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re seeking the thrill of outdoor sports or the comfort of cozy indoor activities, this vibrant community has something special for everyone. Here’s a sneak peek into the fun-filled January events you won’t want to miss!

January 4 – 5th Annual Chad Norsten Memorial Pool Tourney
Come on out for the 5th Annual Chad Norsten Memorial Pool Tourney! There will be a silent auction, entertainment, meat raffle, gun raffle and more!

January 4 – The Heat is On Bull Ride
Get your tickets for this popular bull riding event! The open class is FULL with over 40 riders & the Mini Bull Riding is FULL (they even have a wait list foot both lineups). Tickets are selling fast so don’t wait!

January 11 – Catwalk Party
Catwalk Party returns to Little Theatre Auditorium celebrating an aptly themed “Nightmare After the Holidays!” We are especially excited to announce an all local cast! Can you guess who? This is a counter culture performance art and social event! Kings & Queens will strut their stuff with lights, music, Auditorium specialty cocktails, and fun! Join us for an unforgettable evening!

Jan 13-Feb 9 – Spicer Winterfest
The 40th annual Spicer WinterFest will take place between January 13th – February 9th, 2025. It will start with the construction of our WinterFest ice castle on January 13th (weather permitting). Other fun events include the WinterFest Family Fun Day with fireworks, the 7th Annual Kids Ice Fishing Derby, Green Lake Pond Hockey Tournament, Polar Plunge, WinterFest dance featuring Out of Line, and so much more. Find the details to these events below.

January 18 – Frozen 5K Run/Walk
It’s going to be a great year for the Frozen 5K Walk/Run! Take advantage by signing up online for this scenic run around Spicer by January 17th! There is also same day registration at 8am if you decide to join the fun at the last minute.

January 19 – 7th Annual Kids Ice Fishing Derby
All kids ages 15 years and younger are welcome to participate in this annual ice fishing derby on Green Lake. Registration starts at 11:00am at Pirrotta Park with lunch and prize drawings at 2:00pm.

January 25 – Polar Plunge into Green Lake
The Polar Plunge is back in Spicer for the 20th year in a row! The Willmar/Spicer Plunge has raised over $1,107,987 in its 19-year history. In 2024, 286 Plungers raised $76,247!! The Polar Plunge is the biggest fundraiser for Special Olympics Minnesota. All funds raised by Plungers help Special Olympics Minnesota provide year-round training and services to thousands of athletes with intellectual disabilities across the state. So register today, if you dare to jump into the freezing waters of Green Lake!

January 25 – WinterFest Family Fun Day
The WinterFest Family Fun Day is an afternoon filled with fun activities for the whole family including sledding, ice skating, kick sledding, hay ride, kid’s crafts & indoor activities, live music by Ava Hanson and a bonfire with s’mores before ending with fireworks at 6pm!

January 25 – Spicer Winterfest Dance
Enjoy a night of music and dancing with Out of Line at Zorbaz on Green Lake. This is a 21+ event after 10pm so you will need your ID to enter. Admission is $5.00 (cash only).

And continuing throughout the month of January are Willmar WarHawk Home Games, Kandi Kane Lane at the Museum (thru Jan. 3rd), karaoke nights at area bars, trivia nights at area breweries, and live music at a variety of restaurants/bars! More events will be added to our community calendar throughout the month. So for the most udpated listing of events, please see our Events Calendar.

Whether you’re looking to embrace the chill with outdoor activities or find comfort in cozy indoor events, the Willmar Lakes Area has something for everyone this January. Mark your calendars and get ready for a month full of adventure and joy!