Celebrate the best that Minnesota has to offer when you visit the first city on the Mississippi! Bemidji offers something for everyone, from the fine arts, to fierce competition in a variety of large summer events!
Around Town and the Lake
Experience the sights and sounds of the area while you peddle and loop yourself around Lake Bemidji during the Loop the Lake Festival. Presented by Bike Bemidji, this event was created to promote outdoor physical activity, health, and clean air; encourage a bicycle-centered culture; showcase our community to visitors through a festive atmosphere.
A BOOMING 4th!
Celebrate America’s independence with Bemidji’s longest running celebration. The Bemidji Jaycees 78th Annual Water Carnival runs June 30th through July 4th. The celebration provides classic Americana experiences with a rides and games at the carnival along the south shore of Lake Bemidji. It also includes a Water Ski Show, Grande Parade, and one of Minnesota’s largest fireworks celebration shot off from the center of Lake Bemidji!
All Forms of Art!
Bemidji shines mid-July with its annual Art in the Park! The two-day festival draws thousands of visitors to historic tree-lined Library Park in Downtown Bemidji July 16 & 17. Last year nearly 100 artists were featured in addition to food vendors, music, and a kids’ art space. But art of all forms is available year-round, from the more than 30 sculptures on every street corner in downtown Bemidji to the live theatrical productions at historic Chief Theater, where the longest summer repertory theater performs at the Paul Bunyan Playhouse.
Culture and the Arts!
New for 2022, a celebration of the arts and culture will come together for the Anishinaabe Art Festival July 22 and 23. The festival offers exceptional art in all media available for purchase directly from the artists. The entire event is an array of Indigenous activities and entertainment. Enjoy artist demonstrations, a traditional tea bar, and stage performances of traditional dance, singing, and teachings. And savor an authentic Indigenous meal served each day.
Spirit of Competition!
Experience the pageantry and excitement of race day as teams from all over the Midwest and Canada compete in the 16th Annual Lake Bemidji Dragon Boat Festival, August 3-6! From the exceptional viewing area, energizing races, extraordinary team villages, excellent kids activities, and evening entertainment, we have something exciting for the whole family. The festival is located along the shores of beautiful Lake Bemidji (on Bemidji Avenue/Hwy 197—to the left of the Paul & Babe statues.
One Step Further!
In between all the excitement and celebration don’t forget about our 400 Lakes within a 25-mile radius to find that peace and serenity. Stay the night and experience our amazing resorts and hotels! Enjoy fine dining featuring foods from all around the world in our historic downtown. All while going one step further to walk across the start of the Mississippi River and meeting a friendly giant known as Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox. Bemidji will capture those great moments that you will cherish for a lifetime.
