Fall Festivals & Events in the Brainerd Lakes Area
September 24, 2025
When the air turns crisp and the shoreline trees burst into shades of red, orange, and gold, the Brainerd Lakes Area transforms into the perfect backdrop for a fall getaway. From smoky BBQ competitions and chili cook-offs to Oktoberfest steins, haunted sheds, and a golf tournament that’s more about laughs than low scores — autumn here is all about celebrating the season.
Here’s your Book the BLA guide to the can’t-miss fall happenings in 2025 — with direct links to schedules, tickets, and event details. Whether you’re staying in one of our cozy lake cabins or planning a weekend trip, these events are the perfect excuse to experience the Lakes Area in all its autumn glory.
September 20, 2025 | Nisswa, MN
Details & Tickets: See the full schedule here
Nisswa’s annual fall festival marks its 50th year, paired with the 20th Smokin’ Hot BBQ Challenge. Enjoy breakfast, artisan markets, bean bag tournaments, kids’ activities, and live music. Downtown fills with the aroma of ribs and brisket before Wyld Ryce closes out the evening.
Pro tip: Book your Minnesota cabin rental early for this one — it’s always a busy weekend in Nisswa!
September 25–27, 2025 | Crosslake, MN
Details & Full Schedule: Explore the event guide here
Crosslake Days is one of the most beloved fall weekends in the Lakes Area. Highlights include the Chili Cook-off, artisan fairs, cornhole tournaments, live music, kids’ activities, and the famous “Search for the Lost Chili Pepper.” The weekend wraps up with the iconic Crosslake Ace Hardware Street Dance and the enchanting Cider & Candlelight Tour.
September 19 – October 26, 2025 | Nisswa, MN
Fridays–Sundays only
Bring the family out for fall fun every weekend. From a Hay Bale Maze and Corn Pit Sandbox to face painting, pumpkin carving, painted hay bales, fall shopping, food trucks, and more — it’s a festival built for making memories.
Event info: Check the Copper Creek site for activities and details.
September 27, 2025 | Nisswa, MN
Event Info: View details on Facebook
Sometimes golf is serious… but not here. This tournament is about creativity, laughs, and enjoying the fall weather with friends. Whether you’re a scratch golfer or just in it for the Bloody Marys, it’s the most entertaining way to celebrate autumn in Nisswa.
October 4, 2025 | Pequot Lakes, MN
Details & Updates: Event info on Facebook
Hosted by The Babinski Foundation, this day-long event blends fun with fundraising for animal rescue.
Morning: Kick off with a 5K race or yoga with shelter pups.
Daytime: Food trucks, carnival games, hayrides, petting zoo, flea market, scavenger hunts, and a Roundhouse Brewery beer garden.
Haunted Shed: Family-friendly from 11 AM–5 PM, spooky after hours 5–7 PM.
Evening: Hot air balloon rides, live music, vendors, and a sunset trail walk.
Roundhouse Brewery Oktoberfest | Sept. 19–21 | Nisswa More Info
Cuyuna Brewing Oktoberfest | Sept. 20 | Crosby More Info
Snarktoberfest at Snarky Loon Brewing | Sept. 27 | Jenkins More Info
Jacktoberfest at Jack Pine Brewery | Sept. 27 | Baxter More Info
Gull Lake Oktoberfest Pub Crawl | Oct. 4 | Gull Lake Tickets & Schedule
Lakestober Fest at Lakes Tavern | Oct. 4 | Pequot Lakes More Info
Oktoberfest at Ruttger’s Bay Lake Resort | Oct. 17–18 | Deerwood More Info
From BBQ competitions and chili cook-offs to pumpkin patches, golf tournaments, and stein-holding contests, the Brainerd Lakes Area knows how to celebrate the season. These festivals bring together the traditions, flavors, and small-town spirit that make the B.L.A. unforgettable.
So grab your flannel, gather your crew, and plan your fall cabin getaway — because autumn in the Lakes Area is one big celebration.
