February 2019 Events at Leech Lake
January 29, 2019
February is upon us, and with it comes more winter weather and another month on beautiful Leech Lake. The later winter months are the perfect time to visit the area; the woods are covered with fresh snow, the ice is at its best, and our local lodges and resorts are the perfect cozy escape you’ve been looking for. Make sure you include these events in your February Leech Lake getaway!
Ice Fishing
If quirky festivals and buyers shows aren’t your speed, or even if you’re looking to catch a festival and sneak in a little ice fishing over a long weekend, there are still plenty of quiet corners of the lake. February makes for some solid ice fishing and is a great time to check out the Leech Lake/Walker area’s host of ice house rental options. Forgo the busy schedule and your hectic pace of life and spend some time on serene Leech Lake.
Frostfest
Saturday, February 9th marks the second annual Leech Lake Frostfest. Get out on the lake as the entire town gathers for an afternoon of food, live music, craft brews, and games galore for the younger members of the family. Stop by for the home brew competition and support the Deep Portage Learning Center, this year’s non-profit beneficiary. See you there! 
Valentine Candlelight Ski at Shingobee
Ski by candlelight with your Valentine and join us at Shingobee Hills Recreation Area February 14th. From 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM, skiers will be invited to start at the chalet and ski a half-mile candlelight loop at the base of the sled hill. Warm up afterwards with a fire and hot cocoa at the chalet and share this special evening with your loved ones of all ages. 
North Country Buyer’s Show
Leech Lake is proud to welcome the North Country Resort, Retail and Restaurant Buyer’s Show February 20th and 21st. In its 44th year, the Buyer’s Show features vendors both old and new from nearly every industry imaginable. Featured are clothing, advertising, software, insurance, boats, decor and more; if you have a business, chances are you’ll find something that interests you! Join us at the Northern Lights Event Center for this memorable event.
International Eelpout Festival
For 40 years, the International Eelpout Festival has celebrated one of the world’s ugliest bottom-dwelling fish with a party right on the surface of Leech Lake. Join in February 21st – 24th as we celebrate what’s been proudly named one of the “15 Weird Midwestern Festivals You Never Knew Existed.” Experience live music, eelpout curling (see it to believe it), eelpout rugby, dog sled races, a jalapeño eating contest, a Beer Pong tournament, an ice bar, and more! 
From snowy afternoon festivals complete with live music and fun on the icy lake, to cozy nights by the fire in one of the many area lodges, from bustling wholesale buyer’s shows to peaceful fishing on a quiet inlet; no matter what your vacation preference, Leech Lake and Walker have it all this February. We say, “come for the festivals, stay for the friendships!”
Start your vacation planning now and take a look at one of our local resorts – there’s something for everyone!