Sitting on the banks of the St. Croix River, Stillwater, Minnesota, was founded by settlers who were drawn to the heavily forested areas and river-transporting opportunities. Thus, lumbering became Stillwater's main industry and made the town one of the oldest in the state. Now, it's known as a book town because of its antique bookstores, but there are also several festivals and events in Stillwater that keep tourists coming back every year.
Considered to be Stillwater's first major event of the outdoor season, this May festival features artists from around the country who showcase their work in judged exhibitions. Among the art forms are glass, jewelry, paper, wood and clothing. There's also great food and a large area set up just for kids.
Rivertown Art Festival
Lumberjack Days Festival
Lowell Park/Downtown Stillwater
Stillwater, MN 55082
651-430-2306
rivertownartfestival.com
More than 300 professional bikers descend on Stillwater in June for this five-day pro stage cycling race. Among the challenges is Chilkoot Hill, a 24-degree climb, which is considered to be the most grueling trek in North American racing. In addition to stunt riders and bike exhibitions, there's also food and musical entertainment.
Minnesota Bike Festival and Nature Valley Grand Prix
Lowell Park/Downtown Stillwater
Stillwater, MN 55082
651-439-4001
minnbikefestival.com
Join the crowd that gathers every year for this tent event in June. Fill up on German food and beer, then burn those calories while dancing to the music of a live polka band. Enjoy other street-fair activities like face painting and pony rides.
Bavarian Sommerfest
8390 Lofton Avenue
Stillwater, MN 55082
612-439-7128
No website
This annual summer celebration in July highlights Stillwater's history as a lumber town with lumberjack skills competitions and the dogs and logs championships, where woodsmen and their pets face off in several competitions. There's also fair food, live music and one of the largest musically choreographed fireworks shows in the United States.
Lumberjack Days Festival
Lowell Park/Downtown Stillwater
Stillwater, MN 55082
651-430-2306
lumberjackdays.com
The bookend-event to the Rivertown Art Festival, this show is Stillwater's last of the outdoor season, held against the backdrop of the colorful fall season in October. Original works of art include painting, pottery, jewelry and photography, all entered in the juried show. There's also plenty of music and food.
Fall Colors Fine Art & Jazz Festival
Lowell Park/Downtown Stillwater
Stillwater, MN 55082
651-439-4001
ilovestillwater.com
