Gun Lake Winterfest is thrilled to announce its annual winter celebration, set to take place this Saturday, February 21, 2026, at Gun Lake County Park. This year's festival promises a day filled with exciting activities, local flavors, and community spirit.
Event Highlights:
• Russo’s Winterfest Idol: Local talents have been competing since January, with the top three winners receiving cash prizes. The final performances will be showcased on the main stage.
• United Bank Polar Dip: Brave participants can take a refreshing plunge into Gun Lake with a low entry fee of $10, aiming to make this the largest Polar Dip to date.
• Birdie Blizzard Disc Golf Tournament: In partnership with Innova Discs, this fifth annual tournament welcomes players of all levels to a 9-hole course at Yankee Springs Township Park.
• Warming Tent: Complete with kid’s area, local vendors, and raffle baskets
• New this year: Broomball/hockey Score-O, Orangeville Jail, fun games including cornhole, Yardzee, and more!
• Main Stage Entertainment: The day's schedule includes:
o 11:00 AM: Opening Ceremony by the Match-e-be-nash-she-wish Band of
Pottawatomi Indians
o 11:30 AM: Remembering our friend Eric Redstone
o 11:45 AM: Winterfest Logo Winner Announcement
o 11:50 AM: Magician Alan Kazam's Show
o 12:30 PM: Gun Lake Price is Right – Audience participation
o 12:45 PM: Russo’s Gun Lake Idol Winners Perform
o 1:15 PM: Vernors Chugging Contest
o 1:30 PM: Pizza Eating Contest
o 2:00 PM: Let’s Make a Deal
o 2:20 PM: Hot Wings Challenge Finalists
o 2:45 PM: Winterfest Chili Contest Winner Announced
o 3:00 PM: Polar Dip
To enhance accessibility, a free trolley service will transport attendees between Gun Lake Park, local businesses, Birdie Blizzard, and designated parking areas, courtesy of our generous local business sponsors.
The Gun Lake Winterfest is a cherished community event, dedicated to bringing families together, supporting local businesses during the off-season, and raising funds for local charities. This year, we are proud to collaborate with the North Country Trail Association Chief Noonday Chapter.
For the latest updates, including parking information and a detailed schedule of events, please visit our official website at gunlakewinterfest.com or follow us on Facebook at Facebook.com/GunLakeTourism
