PSA
11 / 17 / 25 A

BLOOD DRIVES:
Call 1-800-RED-CROSS or visit RedCrossBlood.org to schedule a donation time or to find a drive near you.
Donate between now and DEC. 7 and receive free Pair of Red Cross PAC-MAN Socks, while supplies last!!!!

Thurs. 11/20        8:00-2:00            Camp Ripley in Little Falls
Mon.   11/24        9:00-3:00            American Legion in Nisswa
Mon.   11/24        12:00-6:00          American Legion in Ironton
Tues.  11/25        12:00-6:00          American Legion in Milaca
Tues.  11/25        12:00-6:00          Immanuel Lutheran Church in Wadena
Wed.   11/26        9:00-2:00            Verndale High School
Fri.     11/28        10:00-4:00          Team Ascension Martial Arts in Brainerd
Thurs. 12/4       12:30-6:30          Northland Arboretum in Baxter
Fri.     12/5         11:00-5:00          Lakewood Church in Baxter
Wed.   12/10        8:00-2:00            Pierz Healy High School in Pierz
Fri.     12/12        10:00-4:00          Westgate Mall in Baxter
Fri.     12/12        11:00-5:00          St. Mathias Parks & Rec in Fort Ripley

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THE SALVATION ARMY is looking for Bell Ringers for their upcoming Red Kettle Campaign.  PLEASE sign up to ring bells this holiday season by visiting RegisterToRing.com.  If you prefer, you can call and talk to Savannah at the Salvation Army office in Brainerd and she will help you get registered over the phone.  218-829-1120.  There are locations to ring in Brainerd, Baxter, Nisswa and Crosby starting on Nov. 8th.

The Crossing Arts Alliance announces the Opening of the Kringle Market at Crossing Arts in downtown Brainerd.  Stop in this holiday season and find artwork and fine crafts made by dozens of local and regional makers.  Cards, gifts, holiday décor and more.  The market will then be open Tuesdays through Fridays, 10:00-5:00 and Saturdays from 10:00-4:00.  (Sun. Dec. 14, 10-4…. Christmas Eve 10-3… Closed Christmas Day…)  Check additional hours on Facebook event page.

11/17 – 11/23

Auditions for “The Tin Woodman of Oz” (by L. Frank Baum, adapted by Ben Gordon), will be held at the Pequot Lakes High School auditorium from 6:00-9:00pm on Mon. & Tues. Nov. 17 & 18.  Auditioning will be asked to read scenes from the script and participate in some fun movement exercises.  Rehearsals will start Jan. 5 and be held M-F from 6-9pm… SHOW dates will be Feb. 13, 14, 20 & 21 at 7pm and Feb. 15 & 22 at 2:00.  Get more info by calling 218-568-9200 or visit GLAPA.org.

Staples Motley Beyond Poverty is bringing National Expert Erin Walsh to the Staples Motley community to talk about Stress & The Brain: Raising Resilient Kids on Tues. Nov. 18th at Faith Lutheran Church in Staples.  This free event will begin with a supper from 5:30-6:00 and the speaker from 6:00-7:30.  Child care will be provided and prizes will be available, too!  All are welcome.

Actors Repertory Theater (ART) will present Patrick Spradlin in the one-man play ‘Clarence Darrow’ on Tues. Nov. 18th at 7:00 in the Dryden Theater on the Brainerd campus of Central Lakes College.  Darrow is considered the greatest trial attorney of the 20th Century.  His work in advocating for workers, for free speech, for championing civil rights and for defending those facing the death penalty makes him unparalleled in American legal history.  After a 5 city tour of Iowa, Spradlin will return to the local stage for this performance.  Get tickets online at Art4MN.org.

The holidays can feel especially heavy after the loss of someone you love, but you are not alone.  The Center in Brainerd invites you to a supportive gathering, Healing Through The Holidays: Bereavement Support group on Wed. Nov. 19th at 10:30 at The Center, where they will share practical ways to care for your heart, honor your memories and help you find moments of hope in the season ahead.  Snacks and beverages will be provided.  Everyone is welcome.  RSVP by calling Trisha at 320-759-4953.

Jack Pine Brewery in Baxter will host another Pints for a Purpose on Wed. Nov. 19th.  Stop by that day between 5:00-8:00, because from every pint sold, $1 will be donated to The Relationship Safety Alliance, the local domestic violence shelter.  They hope to see you there.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 20th is GIVE TO THE MAX DAY in Minnesota.  To give to your favorite non-profit, visit GIVEMN.org – and GIVE to the MAX!

The Jessie F. Hallett Memorial Library in Crosby will host a Recycled Joy Holiday Décor Sale on Thurs. Nov. 20th starting at 10:00.  The sale will feature gently used Christmas items that others are no longer wanting, including used trees, working lights, ornaments and garlands.  All items will be sold by donation.  Higher value items may be sold by silent auction.  See you at the Hallett Library in Crosby on Thursday!

Join Lighthouse Beginnings for their 2nd Annual Lighthouse Beginnings Banquet on Fri. Nov. 21st at Heritage Church in Baxter.  It will be an evening of inspiration, fellowship and support for a brighter future.  A silent auction will start at 5:00, with Dinner served at 6:00, followed by uplifting testimonies and inspiration.  Tickets are just $75 and you can order them with your RSVP by email to Jesse@LightHB.org.

A Benefit will be held for the Family of Mason Fussy on Fri. Nov. 21st at Ye Old Pickle Factory in Nisswa from 5:00-7:00pm.  In October, Mason was injured in a workplace accident that resulted in two broken legs and multiple surgeries.  Recovery will require at least 3-4 months.  The benefit will help support Mason and his family with lost income and medical expenses while he is out of work.  Mason, his wife Laura and their daughter Quinn currently live in Pequot Lakes and are lifelong residents of the Nisswa area.  Any help you can give by attending would be appreciated.

The Grassroots Concert Fall Series continues on Fri. Nov. 21st at 7:00pm at the Live Well Nightclub & Coffee Bar at the Journey Church in Nisswa with a performance by The Weary Ramblers.  An Iowa folk duo, Weary Ramblers brings year of experience to the stage with award-winning songwriting and chemistry.  Chad Elliott and Kathryn Fox showcase multi-instrumental performances with tight harmonies along with great storytelling. Admission is $15 at the door for adults, $5 for children with listening attention. Seating is first-come, first-served. Shows are at 7:00, doors open at 6:30. For more information, visit GrassRootsConcerts.org.

The Northland Arboretum invites you to their Holiday Market* on Sat. Nov. 22nd from 9:00-3:00.  The market features over 30 vendors featuring gifts, concessions and more.  Admission is free.
  ~~Minnesota Author and Brainerd native, Julie Jo Larson, author of 100 Things to Do In Minnesota Before You Die and 100 Things To Do In Minnesota Northwoods Before You Die, will be part of the * Holiday Market doing a book signing on Sat. Nov. 22nd from 9:00-3:00 the Northland Arboretum in Brainerd.  Both books will be available for sale at the event, or they can be purchased in advance wherever books are sold.

The Cuyuna Rock, Gem & Mineral Society invites you to the Holiday Rock & Craft Sale on Sat. Nov. 22nd from 9:00-4:00 in the lower level of the Franklin Arts Center in Brainerd.  Find handcrafted jewelry, rock crafts, unique stone specimens, agates and more!  More info can be found on Facebook, search Cuyuna Rock, Gem and Mineral Club.

The Nisswa American Legion invites you to its Turkey & Ham Bingo on Sat. Nov. 22nd starting at 6:00.  Why BUY a Thanksgiving turkey or a Christmas Ham when you can maybe win one and support the legion?  Well, it’s worth a try! See you there!

11/24 – 11/30

The Brainerd Area Epilepsy Advocates group will be hold its regular 4th Monday of the Month Meeting on Mon. Nov. 24th from 5:00-7:00 at St. Joseph’s Medical Campus in Brainerd.  Those who attend will learn more about seizure recognition and gain knowledge, skills and confidence in applying seizure first aid.  If you or someone you know is affected by or living with Epilepsy, this gathering is for you.  Learn more online at EpilepsyAdvocates.org.

The Brainerd Lakes Chamber invites you to another Business After Hours on Tues. Nov. 25th at The Lodge at Brainerd Lakes from 4:30-6:00.  Get your friends together for this networking event and enjoy appetizers and beverages, learn more about the business and maybe win some prizes.  If you plan to attend, please RSVP at BrainerdLakesChamber.com.

The Pequot Lakes American Legion will host an “especially thankfully” Thanksgiving Meat Raffle on Tues. Nov. 25th starting at 5:30.  Showing their thanks for YOU, the meat package values have increased for this special raffle, but the ticket prices will remain $1!  They’ll have $30 meat packages, $50 packages and even $100 packages!  Remember, by attending the PL American Legion Meat Raffles, you are always supporting the Pequot Lakes Fire District.  AND, you’ll be supporting Veterans, because THIS meat raffle will also support Veterans, after just having celebrated Veterans Day.  Hope to see you there, Nov. 25th.

5 Rocks Distilling in Brainerd will host Cocktails for a Cause on Tues. Nov. 25th from 6:00-8:00pm.  During that time, $5 from each cocktail or mocktail will be donated to a lakes area non-profit – this time, you’ll be supporting Brainerd Lakes Safe Ride! While you are there, enjoy music from Stephen and food from Papa Murphy’s!  Before the holiday BUZZ… relax, sip and support Safe Ride!

The 16th Annual Brainerd Turkey Run (5K Run and 1 Mile Walk) will take place on Thurs. Nov. 27th in support of Shriners Hospitals for Kids.  The Thanksgiving morning event starts and ends at the Brainerd Armory on Wright Street in Brainerd.  The 5K will start at 9:00 and the 1 Mile walk will start shortly thereafter.  Awards will be given out around 9:45.  The event happens rain/shine/snow.  Register online at BrainerdTurkeyRun.com.

A FREE Thanksgiving Day Community Meal will be served on Thurs. Nov. 27th out of the Brainerd American Legion, courtesy of the Legion, the Brainerd Eagles, VFW, and Elks clubs.  Meals must be reserved in advance for either Pick-Up or Delivery… there will be NO DINE-IN option.  Call 218-829-2249 to reserve your meal or meals for that day.  In fact, you can call any of the clubs (Legion, Eagles, Elks or VFW in Brainerd) and leave a message with your name, phone number and number of meals needed.)

Discover Staples will help provide Free Thanksgiving Meals to Community Members at the Timbers Event Center in Staples on Thanksgiving Day, Thurs. Nov. 27th from 11:00-1:00, thanks to a number of area organizations.  Online registration is required to attend this free, in-person event.  Go to Facebook and search Free Thanksgiving Community Meal Discover Staples for the link to register.

Nisswa City of Lights will be celebrated on Fri. Nov. 28th – do NOT miss out on this amazing annual event.
~~The day begins at 11:00 on Main Street in Nisswa with stores open for shopping and food vendors open near the Chamber building.  At 3:30, Main Street closes and festivities begin, like Polar Express Storytelling at the Caboose, Santa’s Petting Zoo, bon fires, and a visit from Santa & Mrs. Claus at 4:00.  Enjoy carolers, train rides, a luminary walk, mini donuts, kids crafts, s’mores and more.

~~Part of it includes the Good Samaritan Hospice Love Lights A Tree ceremony at the Nisswa Pioneer Village.  To purchase a $5 ornament for this year’s tree, call El at Good Sam Hospice at 218-963-9452.  Guests are invited to gather at 5:15 with the ceremony scheduled for 5:45. This lighting ceremony memorializes loved ones who have passed.  For a full list of events, visit Facebook and search Nisswa Chamber of Commerce. ( (There will be PARKING with a FREE SHUTTLE from Timberwood Church to and from downtown Nisswa from 4:00-8:00 pm))

Black Friday FUN and Savings are coming to the Explore Brainerd Lakes Welcome Center on BOTH Black Friday & Small Business Saturday (Nov. 28 & 29) from 10:00-3:00 both days – It’s a SALE!  Sip hot chocolate from the Hot Chocolate Bar while you shop local and save anywhere from 5- to 30% on your purchases at the Gift Shop!  Visit with the special Guest Elf and let the kids have fun enjoying some activities, too!  Jess and Tawny can’t wait to see you!  The Welcome Center is just south of Brainerd/Baxter on Highway 371.  Free gifts for every kid!

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources reminds residents that the next Free Park Day in Minnesota is Fri. Nov. 28th.  On this day, all Minnesota state parks and state recreation areas offer free admission to everyone – no vehicle permits are needed!  The free park day gives residents a chance to get out there and explore new places or visit an old favorite.  (The fee waiver for fee-free days does not cover amenity or user fees for activities like camping, rentals or special tours).  Learn more at DNR.State.MN.us.

Experience the Magic of Christmas in Little Falls, Nov. 28th through Dec. 7th.  It’s the 12 Days of Christmas at Linden Hill, see Christmas Tree Lane and enjoy the local history.  Visit LittleFallsChristmasTours.com to plan your visit.

Motley United Methodist Church will host its monthly Community Breakfast on Sat. Nov. 29th from 9:00-10:30.  (Always the last Sat. of the month)  There is no charge for the meal – it’s just an opportunity for members of the community to come together and share a meal.  Free will donations are accepted for the Motely Area Food Shelf.  The church is on 3rd Ave. S. in Motley.

The Cuyuna Range Farmers Market invites you Indoors on Small Business Saturday, Nov. 29th for their Small Business Saturday Market at the Taconite Canteen in Ironton from 10:00-2:00.  Come shop for baked and canned goods, breads, confections, soaps, artisan good, stocking stuffers and more!  Enjoy live music from Jamie Koop from 10:00-12:00 and from 12:00-1:00 Santa & Mrs. Claus will be there!  Enjoy a soup and sandwich lunch special and visit with local author Trisha Abear, too!  See you there!

In an effort to support local small businesses, Roundhouse Brewery in Nisswa will host a Holiday Market on Sat. Nov. 29th from 12:00-5:00.  Join them for a day of supporting small businesses while enjoying delicious beer, food and hot chocolate!  Santa will be providing music from 2:00-5:00 while you shop businesses like Country Sweet Treats, Brims & Boulevard, B’s Wax Candle Co., Stitched with Love, Forever Linked Permanent Jewelry and many others.  Hope to see you there!

Bundle up and come out for fun at the Staples Annual Holiday Parade of Lights on Sat. Nov. 29th starting at 5:30.  Watch as downtown Staples lights up with glowing floats, festive music, and Christmas cheer.  Then stick around after the parade for photos and fun around town.  They hope to see you there!

Hard to believe, but it’s time to Wrap It Up…. The amazing, Emmy-award-winning vocal quartet, Tonic Sol-Fa will present their Final Holiday Tour concert in Brainerd on Sun. Nov. 30th at the Gichi-ziibi Center for the Arts.  The concert will start at 7:00.  This farewell run marks the end of a legendary chapter, bringing audiences one last chance to experience the group’s signature blend of harmonies and heartfelt humor, as they present it through seasonal classics and original holiday hits.  Tickets start at $36 plus tax and fees.  Get tickets through the event page on Facebook, Tonic Sol-Fa Wrap It Up Holiday Tour Concert.

12/1 – 12/7

The Friends of the Brainerd Public Library are excited to welcome author Will Weaver as the next guest speaker at the Brown Bag Author Event on Mon. Dec. 1st from 12:00-1:00 at the Brainerd Public Library.  Following his award-winning novel Power & Light, Weaver’s sequel, Black Dirt, Bright Stars is next on your list of must-reads.  The public is invited to this free Brown Bag event.  Feel free to bring your lunch or enjoy the light refreshments that will be available, including coffee, tea and snacks.

The public is invited to enjoy the Season of Light at the Forestview Planetarium on a few select nights in December. Explore the historical, cultural and astronomical roots of winter holiday traditions.  The show will include a winter night sky talk and Season of Light full-dome show.  Suitable for all age levels.  Tickets are only $5 per person.  Showtimes are at 6:00pm and 7:15pm on Mon. Dec. 1, 8 and 15 and on Wed. Dec. 3, 10 and 17.   Reserve your tickets in advance at FMSPlanetarium.com.

Ruby’s Pantry will host another food distribution on Tues. Dec. 2nd at Central Lakes College – Staples campus from 4:30-6:00.  For a $25 cash donation, you’ll receive your share of the food (valued at over $100), which most often includes fresh and frozen produce, meat, eggs, dairy and other healthy foods.  This is for anyone looking to extend their monthly grocery budget.  There is no residency or income requirement.  For more info, visit RubysPantry.org or Rubys Pantry of Staples MN on Facebook.  (Always the first Tuesday of the Month)

The Pine River-Backus Family Center invites you to the Salty Dog Saloon & Eatery in Backus on Tues. Dec. 2nd for a Fundraiser Dinner.  Stop by between 5:00-7:00 and for $10, enjoy a pulled pork sandwich, tots or fries and a pop!  Proceeds from this fundraiser support the PR-B Family Center programs and services in the area to support local families in partnership with the RadioThon to End Child Abuse.

Jack Pine Brewery in Baxter will host another Pints for a Purpose on Wed. Dec. 3rd.  From 5:00-8:00 that evening, $1 from every pint sold will be donated to a lakes area non-profit!  This time, the dollars raised will be given to The Crossing Arts and all the visual arts programs you’ve come to love there… the rotating exhibits, summer camps and after school events for teens/tweens…. Creativity Kits, Young at Art, Kringle market and more.  They hope to see you there!

Lakes Area United Way and Second Harvest Northland will host a Mobile Food Pantry on Thurs. Dec. 4th at Central Lakes College-Brainerd Campus starting at 10:00.  There is no cost to participate and the food is distributed until 11:00 or until it runs out.  This is a drive-thru event in the parking lot of the college.  Signs will be posted.  Learn more at SecondHarvestNorthland.org.

“Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer,” the classic family musical, will come to life on the stage at the CLC Chalberg Theater in Brainerd Dec. 4-7, thanks to Brainerd Community Theater! Showtimes are at 7:00 on Thurs., Fri. & Sat. Dec. 4, 5 and 6 and at 2:00 on Sat. & Sun. Dec. 6 & 7.  Tickets are $20 for Adults, $16 for Seniors, $10 for those Under 18 and $5 for CLC Students.  Get them NOW by calling 855-8199 or online at CLCPerformingArts.com.

The 32nd Annual RadioThon to End Child Abuse will be taking place from 12:00 noon on Thurs. Dec. 4th through 12:00 noon on Fri. Dec. 5th LIVE from the Westgate Mall in Brainerd.  We encourage you, our listeners, to participate by calling in your pledge to help support the programs and services here in central Minnesota that help prevent child abuse and keep kids safe.  You can also participate by bidding on the auction items through the link at Brainerd.net (once the RadioThon is underway.)  Thank you!

Crow Wing County Child Protection Team, with help from Super One Foods, Viking Coke and Old Dutch, will hold a Pulled Pork Fundraiser at the Westgate Mall in Brainerd on Thurs. & Fri. Dec. 4 & 5th in support of the RadioThon to End Child Abuse.  For $7, enjoy a pulled pork sandwich ($10 for 2 sandwiches), chips and a pop/water with the proceeds benefitting the RadioThon!  CASH or CHECK ONLY.  ((Delivery is available within Brainerd/Baxter ON THURSDAY ONLY, but you must pre-order by MON. DEC. 1st.))  Sale hours are Thurs. Dec. 4 from 10:00-2:00 and Fri. Dec. 5th from 10:00-12:00 (or while supplies last).  PRE-ORDER by calling 218-513-6518 or send an email to CP-PPOrders@CrowWing.gov.

The Northland Arboretum will host an event with a Sensory-Friendly Santa on Thurs., Fri. and Sat., Dec. 4th, 5th, and 6th from 4:00-6:00pm.  During this time, activities have been designed to ensure that every family feels comfortable.  After visiting with Santa, children can write letters and create art.  Lights will be adjusted with calming music played to prevent sensory overload and noise-cancelling head phones will be available.  Santa is well-trained in supporting families with these experiences.  The event is FREE, however, Registration IS REQUIRED.  Visit the Sensory Friendly Santa Facebook page for the link to register.

Join MN Adult & Teen Challenge for their Christmas Concert on Thurs. Dec. 4th  and Fri. Dec. 5th at Heritage Church in Baxter starting at 6:00.  Hear their clients share stories and songs of hope.  This is a free-will offering event.  Gather you family and friends and join them for an evening of festive songs and powerful testimonies.  Refreshments will be served after each performance.

WHOVILLE! in Crosslake Townsquare will take place on Sat. Dec. 5th ( and Sat. Dec. 27th ) from 4:30-6:30pm) (More to come)

The Grassroots Concert Fall Series continues on Fri. Dec. 5th at 7:00pm at the Live Well Nightclub & Coffee Bar at the Journey Church in Nisswa with a performance by Jack Klatt.  Part balladeer and part bluesman, Jack is a dedicated songwriter and fingerstyle guitarist based in Minneapolis, who pulls from a wide range of American music from Rhythm & Blues and early Rock N Roll to country and folk. Admission is $15 at the door for adults, $5 for children with listening attention. Seating is first-come, first-served. Shows are at 7:00, doors open at 6:30. For more information, visit GrassRootsConcerts.org.

Cuyuna Christmas, Snow Many Smiles will be held on Sat. Dec. 6th at Crosby Memorial Park from 3:00-6:00pm. Visit CuyunaChristmas.com for more info.

A Benefit for Dave Dosh will be held on Sat. Dec. 6th at the St. Mathias Bar & Grill from 4:00-7:00pm.  In May, Dave underwent a major heart surgery that was followed by serious complications.  After months on life-support, he is home and on the road to recovery.  He still needs a major surgery and more procedures to heal.  The fundraiser is to help Dave and his wife Julie with the medical bills, travel costs and overall life expenses that are overwhelming them, both unable to work.  Please attend if you can.

The Staples-Motely Music Department invites everyone to Madrigal “A Night with the King” on Sat. Dec. 6th starting at 6:00pm in the Staples-Motley Legacy Gym.  Tickets for this dinner and musical event are $30 and available online at ISD2170.org.  They are limited, so please order soon!

12/8 – 12/14

The public is invited to enjoy the Season of Light at the Forestview Planetarium on a few select nights in December. Explore the historical, cultural and astronomical roots of winter holiday traditions.  The show will include a winter night sky talk and Season of Light full-dome show.  Suitable for all age levels.  Tickets are only $5 per person.  Showtimes are at 6:00pm and 7:15pm on Mon. Dec. 8 &15 and on Wed. Dec. 10 & 17.   Reserve your tickets in advance at FMSPlanetarium.com.

Ruby’s Pantry will be up and running on Tues. Dec. 9th at the Northern Pacific Center in Brainerd from 4:30-6:00 (always the 2nd Tuesday of the Month).  For just $25 a share, you will receive well-over $100 worth of food, including fresh produce and meat, healthy foods and snacks, and a variety of other items like bread, cereal, refrigerated groceries, juice, milk and other items.  The items are always different and subject to change.  There is no income or residency requirement to participate, it’s for anyone looking to extend their monthly grocery budget.  Learn more at RubysPantry.org.

Brainerd High School Choir will host its annual Madrigal Dinner on Thurs., Fri. and Sat. Dec. 11, 12 & 13 starting at 7:00 each night at Cragun’s Legacy Pavillion.  Be treated to an evening of wonderful food and entertainment while supporting the choir students as they work to raise money for an upcoming trip to Florida as a group.  Learn more about the event and get tickets through a link online at BrainerdMusic.org.

The Outreach Program of Brainerd Lakes and the Lakes Area Shooting Sports invite the public to a Community Fish Fry on Fri. Dec. 12th at the Nisswa Community Center.  The dinner will be served from 5:00-7:00 and free will donations will be accepted as donations for both organizations.  Enjoy the walleye dinner – there will also be hot dogs for those not wanting fish.  See the Community Fish Fry event page on Facebook for more information.

First Lutheran Church in Brainerd is inviting you to its annual Holiday Cookie Walk and Bake Sale on Sat. Dec. 13th from 9:00-1:00.  This is a chance to get all the treats you need for the holidays, including lefse, krumkake, rosettes and Christmas confectionaries.  Find jellies, crafts and other goodies, too!  Cash or Check only!  From 10:00-1:00 enjoy homemade soup, bread, a bar and beverage for just $8.  First Lutheran in on S. 8th Street in Brainerd.

Santa’s Bobbin’ into Town in Pequot Lakes on Sat. Dec. 13th…..

Save the date for Pine River’s winter celebration, Parade of Lights!  This year’s theme is “A Charlie Brown Christmas” will be held on Sat. Dec. 13th starting at 5:00pm.  Enjoy a parade through town, treats at the Chamber, a bonfire under the stars and fireworks…. Facebook for more info.

CLC Performing Arts presents Rock & Roll Xmas Spectacular, their most requested show of the year – as it returns to rock your holidays – on Sat. Dec. 13th at the Gichi-ziibi Center for the Arts in Brainerd, starting at 8:00.  Get tickets by calling 855-8199 or online at CLCPerformingArts.com.

All Aboard for FREE Holiday Fun!  Kick off the season with this one-of-a-kind holiday celebration for the whole family at the CLC Staples Campus!  It’s The Polar Xpress Holiday Festival, on Sat. & Sun. Dec. 13 & 14 from 12:00-4:00 both days.  Enjoy the spectacular G-Scale Model Train displays, the Festival of Trees, miniature train rides, cookie decorating and ornament crafts, holiday vendors and more!  There is no  cost to attend and no tickets required.  All taking place at CLC Staples Campus.  Find more info on Facebook, search Polar Xpress – Holiday Festival.

Crow Wing County DFL will host a Holiday Party and Dinner on Sat. Dec. 13th at the Drummond Wine Company in Brainerd.  Celebrate the season starting at 5:00 with music, dancing and special guest speakers.  For more information, visit Facebook and search Crow Wing County DFL Holiday Party 2025.

The Gathering Event Center in Crosslake will provide a complimentary Community Holiday Meal for those in need who would like to be around others during the holidays.  The meal will be provided on Sun. Dec. 14th between 11:00-2:00 at The Gathering Event Center on Co. Rd. 3.  You can dine there with others or take your meal to go.  All ages are welcome.  Local businesses and individuals are working to put on this free meal.  If you are able to donate or help, please reach out on the event organizers on Facebook.

The Center in Brainerd will host Elf Bingo on Sun. Dec. 14th from 1:00 to 2:30.  The cost is $7 for 16 games and a light lunch will be provided when Bingo is over.  There will also be a meat raffle happening at the same time, so get ready to win big!  The gift shop will be open from 1:00-3:00.  Bring a friend who has never played bingo at The Center before and you’ll both be entered to win a free dozen donuts!!  Learn more on The Brainerd Center’s Facebook page.

The Northland Arboretum invites everyone to join them for a magical holiday event at the Arb as Santa & The Grinch make a special appearance on Sun. Dec. 14th from 2:00-5:00.  Enjoy a free holiday craft for the kids and candy from Santa.  Kids can write letters to Santa and the Grinch, and you can take your own photos – free-will donations are appreciated!  Hot chocolate and cookies will be available for purchase and the gift shop will be open.  Bring the whole family for this free and fun event.  No need to register!

Vacationland Figure Skating Club will present its annual Holiday Show at 5:00 on Sun. Dec. 14th at the Essentia Health Sports Center in Brainerd and it’s open and free for the public to attend!  …. VacationlandFigureSkatingClub.com.