Gathering our Community
Signature Chamber Events
Chamber Hosted Events
We host annual signature events with the support of our local businesses. All events allow our members the opportunity to attend, sponsor, network, and have a good time.
JANUARY - NOVEMBER
Business After Hours
Business After Hours (BAH) are hosted at Chamber member locations the second and fourth Tuesday of the month (January – November) from 4:30–6:00 p.m.
One of the many benefits of being a Chamber member is the opportunity to network member-to-member. Many business deals have transpired because of the opportunity to interact, exchange information and develop professional relationships. BAH helps make the face-to-name connection while giving the opportunity to shake a fellow business representative’s hand in greeting.
For more information, contact Sue Galligan.
Sue@BrainerdLakesChamber.com
(218) 822-7119
FEBRUARY
Excellence in Service Awards
A strong community doesn’t just happen. Individuals and businesses who invest in meaningful connections with a focus on service make where we live better. Join us in celebrating these community members who have gone above and beyond in their service. This event will recognize five award winners for their contributions to our community.
For more information, contact Colleen Faacks.
Colleen@PequotLakes.com
218-568-8911
FEBRUARY
WinterFest
Looking for old-fashioned winter fun? Head to Winterfest in Crosslake. A Lost Medallion Hunt, sledding, skating, an ice carousel, and horse-drawn wagon rides provide hours of fun. Stop in local businesses to warm up and get free soup as part of Soupfest.
For more information, contact Cindy Myogeto.
Cindy@Crosslake.com
(218) 692-4027
FEBRUARY
Blue Ox Business Academy: Leader's Edge
A two-day retreat for experienced leaders to inspire you to make the link between leading and succeeding. This two day retreat is designed with you in mind. Take time to connect with your leadership purpose, make life-long connections with your fellow Brainerd Lakes Area leaders, and continue to build your Leader’s Edge.
For more information, contact Paula Chapulis.
BlueOx@BrainerdLakesChamber.com
218-829-2839
MARCH
Eggs & Issues
For more information, contact Colleen Dols.
Colleen@BrainerdLakesChamber.com
(218) 822-7107
MARCH
Bridges Career Day
Finding skilled workers is one of the toughest challenges facing our members today. Partnering with 28 regional high schools and dozens of Chamber members, we organize interactive business tours, classroom speakers, internships, and a variety of courses featuring real world experiences. With our flagship Career Exploration Day every March, we welcome more than 2,500 students to Central Lakes College for a spectacular learning event that helps students choose their career pathway.
For more information, contact Mary Gottsch.
Mary@BridgesConnection.org
(218) 829-2310
MARCH
Crosslake St. Patrick's Day
Here, everyone is Irish for the weekend and the excitement to cure cabin fever is at an all-time-high. The parade, Clover Dash 5k, Lost Pot O’ Gold medallion hunt, and Lucky Lanyard Deals and Discounts will keep you busy all weekend! Upgrade your experience and purchase a badge for the Shenanigans VIP Experience! See for yourself why the parade has been declared the Best Event of the Brainerd Lakes and the Best Parade in the State!
For more information, contact Cindy Myogeto.
Cindy@Crosslake.com
(218) 692-4027
MARCH
Brainerd Lakes Home Show & Expo
This LARGER THAN LIFE tradeshow highlights 150+ regional businesses showcasing their products and services. PLUS, enjoy entertainment for the whole family: bounce house, lumberjack shows, face painting, children’s play area, high school building competition, artist demonstrations, pop up brewery, food vendors, and much, much more!
For more information, contact Sue Galligan.
Sue@BrainerdLakesChamber.com
(218) 822-7119
APRIL
Lakes Area Summer Kickoff
There’s an excitement in the air as we look forward to warmer weather and a busy tourism season! Join together with other local businesses and get ready for the influx of summer travel. This is a must-attend event for owners and staff of lodging properties, restaurants, attractions, and event planners—get the latest scoop on statewide tourism information and network with your hospitality peers.
For more information, contact Nichole Heinen.
Nichole@ExploreBrainerdLakes.com
218-822-7128
APRIL
Leading the Lakes
Since 2000, thousands of leaders have sharpened their skills and forged strong relationships through the Blue Ox Business Academy. Reconnect with people you know and meet people you should know at our NEW annual event – Leading the Lakes! This event includes a superb keynote presentation and valuable networking that will help you succeed. You’ll also learn about the Chamber’s Peer 360 program!
For more information, contact Paula Chapulis.
BlueOx@BrainerdLakesChamber.com
218-829-2839
JUNE
Sporting Clays
Take aim at the annual Chamber Sporting Clays event hosted at one of our local hunting preserves and gun clubs. Network with other Chamber members in a fun, competitive setting. Sign up as an individual or as a team.
For more information, contact Sue Galligan.
Sue@BrainerdLakesChamber.com
(218) 822-7119
JULY
Stars & Stripes Days
Celebrate our nation’s independence at the Pequot Lakes Stars & Stripes Days. Trailside Park will be buzzing with food vendors, music, games, a parade, and fireworks. Spend 4th of July in Pequot Lakes.
For more information, contact Colleen Faacks.
Colleen@PequotLakes.com
218-568-8911
JULY
BEAN HOLE DAYS
Join in the historic Bean Hole Days, which dates back to 1938. City bankers asked local farmers to come to town for the day, and they served the farmers beans that baked underground overnight. Today, Bean Hole Days is a reminder and celebration of the city’s history.
For more information, contact Colleen Faacks.
Colleen@PequotLakes.com
218-568-8911
AUGUST
CHAMBER GOLF CLASSIC
Enjoy a day on one of the Brainerd Lakes Area’s championship golf courses at the Annual Chamber Golf Classic. You’ll spend the day on the greens networking with your peers. The Golf Classic is a scramble format. No matter your skill level, you’re guaranteed to have fun.
For more information, contact Sue Galligan.
Sue@BrainerdLakesChamber.com
(218) 822-7119
SEPTEMBER
CROSSLAKE DAYS
Attend Crosslake Days the end of September for this fun family event. The crisp fall air is the perfect backdrop to cool the heat of the chili cook-off contest. You’ll find shopping deals from local businesses and other activities all around Crosslake.
For more information, contact Cindy Myogeto.
Cindy@Crosslake.com
(218) 692-4027
NOVEMBER
Celebration of Excellence
This annual event celebrates the accomplishments of the Leadership Experience graduating class, the Lakes Proud Small Business of the Year Award recipient, the Business Excellence Award recipient, and the Business Legacy Award recipient. This is the Chamber’s biggest night and event highlight of the year.
For more information, contact Sue Galligan.
Sue@BrainerdLakesChamber.com
(218) 822-7119
DECEMBER
HOLIDAY EXTRAVAGANZA
The annual Business After Hours Holiday Extravaganza will get you in the holiday spirit at the beautifully decorated Town Hall at Madden’s Resort. Chamber members, you can showcase your business to over 450 attendees. The Holiday Extravaganza is open to the public and is the social event of the season.
For more information, contact Sue Galligan.
Sue@BrainerdLakesChamber.com
(218) 822-7119