Springsteel Resort Fishing Derby Ice Update

FISHING DERBY UPDATE 2/7/24.
Due to poor ice conditions, we regret to inform you that the Warroad Area Chamber of Commerce & Springsteel Resort, Inc Fishing Derby is canceled for 2024.
 
GOOD NEWS… more prizes to be raffled off!!! Get your tickets now for $20 each & you could win one of the prizes below. Need not be present to win.
 
Tickets will be available for sale until 9 AM Saturday, February 17 at all gas stations and many businesses in Warroad and until 2 PM at Springsteel Resort.
 
The drawing for all raffle and fish prizes will be at 3:30 PM on Saturday, February 17. Winners will be posted by 6 pm.
 
Springsteel Resort will have a DJ & Karaoke on the 17th from 9 PM – 1 AM, join them for a fun evening!

It. Is. Cold. Mother Nature turned on and we couldn’t be happier! I don’t think we’ve ever said that before. 

YOU ASKED FOR AN UPDATE, WE ANSWERED... "We are making ice, baby!"

The sub-zero temperatures we are experiencing are giving us high hopes of still having our Fishing Derby on February 17.  It’s only been cancelled once and we won’t call out the C-word for the pandemic that caused that. 

We have tickets sprinkled all over town, and the region for that matter, to make it easier to buy your tickets and get entered to win $10,000! The prizes don’t stop there. We have changed to more cash prizes to entice the participant and make pick-up or delivery easier if you are not present during the drawing.

There may be a village created for Hockey Day MN, but we’ve been creating a village off Springsteel Island for years during the Springsteel Fishing Derby! We have people that drill all the holes that morning. The fence line is put up to create our village on ice and enclose the fishing area. There are fish houses put out for shelters, weigh-in stations, and worker quarters.

Grab your best fishing rod, a bucket of minnows, and c’mon out! Guluk!

PICTURES FROM DERBY'S PAST

Riverbend Skate Path Update

Skating Path Update Jan 2024

Riverbend Skate Path is Open

Sure, the negative temps might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but for the Riverbend skate crew, it’s a dream come true.

Volunteers have been out day and night, transforming the frozen river into a skateable path for everyone to enjoy. Over the weekend, they carved out a path, only to have Mother Nature dump a few inches of fresh powder on their hard work. But our dedicated volunteers are nothing if not resilient and before you knew it, the path was open for skating!

They warn it is not perfect, but it’s an outdoor skating path, it’s to be expected. The Riverbend crew has given us a place to escape cabin fever, to lace up our skates, and feel the wind in our hair (even if it is a bit frosty).

A BIG Thank You to the Riverbend Ice Warriors! These volunteers have poured their hearts into making this winter’s path a reality again this year. If you see any machines on the path, please move to the side so they can continue the necessary maintenance. Feel free to give them a wave and a thank you. They deserve it!

For skate path updates, follow them on Facebook.

Tips for Safe Skating

Of course, with any outdoor activity, there are a few things to keep in mind:

  • Dress in layers so you can adjust to the changing temperatures
  • Wear proper footwear (think boots, not sneakers!)
  • Be aware of your surroundings
  • Don’t skate alone, especially if you’re a beginner
  • Skate rentals are available
  • And most importantly, have fun!

Embrace the cold, grab your skates, and head on down to the Riverbend Skate Path. Just remember, it’s not about perfection, it’s about enjoying the moment. And with this kind of winter, every moment counts!

A few of our favorite memories. Photo credit: Jordan Olson

Hockey Day Minnesota 2024 Fan Bus Trips to Warroad

Fan Bus Warroad

Fan Buses to Hockey Day Minnesota 2024 are now available. Take the worry out of driving – travel in the comfort of a motorcoach bus to Warroad, Minnesota. Single Day and three-day Weekend packages are available. Tickets are on sale now at www.hockeydaymn.com/tickets

Single-Day Trip – Saturday, January 27, 2024

Departs from Moorhead, Minnesota, Fargo or Grand Forks, North Dakota. Hop on at any one of three SCHEELS® parking lots. Cost is $175 per person, plus fees. See Flyer for details.

 

Three-Day Weekend Trip – Friday, January 25 – Sunday, January 28, 2024.

Depart from two locations: St. Cloud, Minnesota from SCHEELS® store parking or Eagan, Minnesota from the Marvin® office located at 2020 Silver Bell Road. Hotel accommodations in Bemidji, Minnesota, on Friday and Saturday nights. Double Occupancy required. Cost is $375 plus fees. See Flyer for details

Travel to Warroad in the comfort of door-to-door service on a motorcoach bus. Tickets to enter the Hockey Day Village and hockey game matchups on Saturday are included. Bring your own snacks and warm winter wear—hats, gloves, snowpants, etc.

Three-day trips include 2-nights of double-occupancy lodging in Bemidji, tickets to a Bemidji State Women’s D1 Hockey Game, and entry into Hockey Day Minnesota Village for Saturday, January 27. Outdoor winter temperatures could range from +20 above zero or -20 below zero.

Fan Buses were made possible through partnerships with SCHEELS® and Marvin®. We thank them for allowing hockey fans to park and hop on the motorcoach bus to Warroad. Hockey Day Minnesota is program of the Minnesota Wild, supported by Bally Sports North and Minnesota Hockey. For more details visit: www.hockeydaymn.com

Lake of the Woods Ice Update

lake of the woods ice update

Winter has cast an icy spell on the Warroad River and Lake of the Woods, creating a picturesque landscape.

 

Earlier this month, the ice formation on the Warroad River and Lake of the Woods was a sight to behold—smooth and promising. Enthusiasts even took advantage of these frozen conditions, venturing out from the Point in Warroad to enjoy some sunny days of ice fishing.

However, nature is dynamic, and winter is no exception. Warm days intervened, causing a partial thaw. The once smooth skating surface along the river became a testament to the unpredictable nature of winter weather.

As if that weren’t enough, the recent weather rollercoaster took a more dramatic turn. Rainfall and heavy snowfall descended upon the already delicate ice, creating a delicate balance between beauty and fragility. 

The combined forces of rain, snow, and wind proved to be formidable adversaries for the ice. Notably, the wind played a particularly disruptive role, causing the ice to pile up in unpredictable formations. 

As we continue to make hard ice, it’s essential for everyone to exercise caution. The seemingly solid ice may hide vulnerabilities beneath its surface. No adventure on frozen waters is without risk, and being mindful of the conditions is key.

Stay safe, check with your local guide or resort for the most current ice conditions, and may ice fishing on Lake of the Woods be in your future.

2024 Springsteel Resort & Warroad Chamber Fishing Derby

Once again this year, thousands of dollars in prizes will be awarded at the annual Ice Fishing Derby at Springsteel Resort on Lake of the Woods in Warroad, MN on February 17, 2024.

The largest walleye takes home $1,000. Largest northern and largest perch $500. Largest burbot $200. First prize $10,000 cash. Second prize $3,000 and so much more.

Tickets are available at local Warroad businesses for $20 each. Unfortunately, we are not offering online sales or mail-in orders this year. Tickets are available the day of the derby.

Book your room and spend a weekend with us! Invite your friends to the event via Facebook by clicking here.

Riverbend Skate Path Update

Riverbend Skate Path

Get ready for another exhilarating year at the Riverbend Skating Path!

With Hockey Day MN 2024 set to take center stage in Warroad, anticipation is building for an influx of skaters ready to hit the ice.

Warroad Community Partners takes pride in providing this skating oasis not only for the locals but also for the tourists seeking a taste of the frozen magic. The effort doesn’t stop there — donations and volunteers play a crucial role in maintaining the path, ensuring it remains a vibrant and accessible space for all to enjoy.

As we await the cold embrace of winter, our eyes are fixed on the weather forecast, which predicts warmer temperatures towards the end of the week. The collective hope is Mother Nature will soon lend her chilly touch, allowing the transformation of the river into a canvas of frozen fun.

Once the ice is ready, the real work begins. The excitement to lace up our skates is mirrored in the dedication of the many volunteers who invest countless hours to craft something truly special for the community and its visitors.

To stay in the loop and get the most up-to-date news on the Riverbend Skating Path, be sure to follow their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/riverbendskatepath

Lace-up and skate Warroad!

Photo credit: Riverbend Skate Path Facebook Page

Hockey Day MN 2024

WHAT IS HOCKEY DAY MN?

Table of Contents

Hockey Day Minnesota is an annual celebration of hockey across the state, organized in collaboration with the Minnesota Wild and Bally Sports North. 

Activities include a mix of boys’ and girls’ high school games, men’s and/or women’s college hockey matchups, culminating in a thrilling NHL game featuring the Minnesota Wild. While some games extend to Thursday and Friday, the primary array of games unfolds on a Saturday and is televised on Bally Sports North. The majority of these games transpire at a specially constructed outdoor venue, underscoring the event’s unique atmosphere. Notably, the college games may occur in standard home arenas, while the Wild games consistently take place in a prominent NHL venue, typically the Xcel Energy Center.

2024 SCHEDULE OF HOCKEY DAY MN EVENTS

THURSDAY, JANUARY 25
5:30 pm Waseca vs. Thief River Falls – Boy’s
7:30 pm Lake of the Woods vs. Kittson County Central – Boy’s

FRIDAY, JANUARY 26
Village Opens at 2 pm

5:30 pm Concordia vs. St. Olaf – MIAC DIII Men’s
8:00 pm Warroad vs. Roseau Alumni Game

Hockey Day MN 2024 rinkSATURDAY, JANUARY 27
Hockey Day
Village Opens at 8 am

9:30 am Warroad vs. Lakeville – Girls Warroad Athletic Complex Yes
1 pm Moorhead vs. Wayzata – Boys Warroad Athletic Complex Yes
4:30 pm Warroad vs. Roseau – Boys Warroad Athletic Complex Yes
8 pm Minnesota Wild vs. Anaheim Ducks St. Paul, Local Watch Parties Yes

VIEW ALL EVENTS

WHERE CAN I STAY?

The hospitality team is dedicated to ensuring your accommodation needs are met! They’re employing innovative strategies, such as collaborating with local resorts to offer fishing packages, creating designated areas for wheelhouse parking, and organizing bus trips from the region for day-trippers and those coming from the Twin Cities. It’s crucial to note that they have secured reservations for all area hotels catering to participating teams, village set-up suppliers, and VIPs. 

READY TO BOOK

WHAT IS THERE TO DO?

The event promises a plethora of attractions, including:

  • Snow hill
  • Miniature Riverbend Skate Path
  • Firepits
  • Igloos
  • Vendors
  • VIP tents
  • An additional small rink named the “Outlaw Rink and Warroad Lakers History” 
  • Entertainment tent offering live bands, delectable food, beverages, and merchandise.

Warroad’s community boasts a 2.5-mile ice path known as the Riverbend Skate Path, connecting seven rinks. A scaled-down version of this beloved winter feature will be situated at the far north end of the field, offering visitors a taste of its charm.  

For those seeking a prime view of the action, two large screens will be positioned behind the VIP tent, where food trucks, coffee and cocoa huts, and the village beer garden will be strategically set up.

Beyond being a celebration of hockey in Minnesota and Warroad, this event transcends the sport. It is a testament to camaraderie, culture, Native American heritage, and the rich history of hockey legends who have contributed to making Warroad the revered Hockeytown USA.

GET YOUR TICKETS

RinkRat 19 Hockey School Registration is Open

Rinkrat 2024

Faith & Hockey School. RinkRat 19 Hockey School Registration 2024

There are two new additions to summer 2024: a Faith and Hockey school and a 3v3 Tournament.  The dates for the 17th annual RR19HS are:

Faith and Hockey School:  June 30 – July 3

Hockey School:  July 7-11, 14-18, and 21-25

3v3 Tournament:  Aug 2-4

 

Faith and Hockey School is designed for kids to know and experience the love of Jesus Christ through the game of hockey. Campers ages 8-14 learn how to honor the Lord with their ability, work ethic, and relationships with one another. Campers will experience how to live out their faith daily while also receiving level hockey coaching. Camp consists of ice, dryland, off-ice game, and these additional components:

  • TEACHING Learning biblical lessons about how to live out our faith in Jesus through hockey. Topics such as identity in Christ, the power of prayer, how to encourage others, and the importance of putting on the armor of God.
  • CHAPEL A time of worship, Christ-centered teaching, prayer, and breaking into smaller, age-based discipleship groups to discuss and apply the teaching to our lives. 

COST
Ages 8-14 
Skater $620, Goalie $310

 

Hockey School a hockey camp emphasizing individual skill development in a creative and enjoyable environment. This camp is for boys and girls ages 3-18 with four daily components of camp:

  • ICE Skating drills that are centered around balance and edges, individual skill work, and competitive small-area games.
  • DRYLAND Shooting, stickhandling, and full body workouts focused on strength and speed (explosive single leg work, core, and agility).
  • OFF-ICE GAME Playing games such as kickball, whiffleball, soccer, etc to increase athleticism while providing a rest to skating muscles.
  • MENTAL SKILLS TRAINING Leadership development, team building, and a Q&A with Gigi and the coaches.

COST
Ages 3-7 Skater $330, Goalie $165
Ages 8-18 Skater $530, Goalie $265

 

3 v 3 TOURNAMENT
Elevate your skill development and creativity by playing in an exciting and competitive 3 v 3 tournament. Players aged 6-14 will have the chance to compete against other skilled players in a variety of cross-ice games over an unforgettable weekend of fast-paced games and fun.

TOURNAMENT INFO:

  • 3 day tournament
  • 4 hours of ice
  • Players will be placed on 1 of 4 teams with a maximum of 10 players (9 skaters, 1 goalie)
  • Gold and bronze medal games held on Day 3

COST
Ages 6-14 Per Player $90

PRINT REGISTRATION FORM

7th Annual Light Up the Holidays 

Light up the holidays

PRESS RELEASE
Warroad, MN – November 15, 2023 – The 7th Annual Light Up the Holidays is set for Saturday,  November 25th! This event kicks off the holiday season in Warroad and this year there will be  the a Holiday Baking Competition, the traditional tree lighting ceremony, and of course, cocoa  and cookies with a visit from Santa and his elf! 

Warroad Area Women of Today will be offering their Holiday Baking Competition again this  year! Area bakers can enter in one of three categories – Most Delicious, Most Beautiful, and  Best Heritage. Whip up two dozen of your favorite Christmas cookies or bars (bakers are  welcome to enter in more than one category) and drop off at 112 Main Ave Suite B from 12-3  pm during the afternoon of the event. Please note that entries in the Best Heritage category require an index card with the history or your entry. Judging will then take place with the winners being named at the event that evening. A customizable engraved cake pan from Etched Laser will be the prize for the winner in each category. Finally, all the entries will be served with hot  cocoa following the event so the community can enjoy the fruits of your labor! There is no fee to enter, and preregistration is appreciated. Email wawt002@gmail.com and include your name,  phone number and which categories you plan to enter.  

The Tree Lighting Ceremony will begin at 5 p.m. with an opening prayer by Pastor Kyle Krahn of  Union Church. The Trees will then be lit by the 2023 Woman of Impact selected from nominations submitted to the Warroad Area Women of Today. The winners of the Holiday  Baking Competition will be announced before Christmas carols are led by WHS student, Amara  Brantingham. Warm drinks, sweet treats, and an appearance from our favorite jolly man in the red suit and his elf will end the night! We invite you to kick of the holiday season with us at this annual Light Up the Holidays event in Warroad! 

Thanksgiving in Warroad

Thanksgiving is right around the corner and Warroad is the place to be.

Imagine a Thanksgiving vacation in a charming town nestled on the Canadian border in Northern Minnesota. A town where nature’s beauty meets small-town charm.

Your journey begins as you traverse scenic roads, flanked by towering pine trees and the occasional glimpse of a pristine lake. Northern Minnesota’s landscapes, adorned with a blanket of snow, create a picturesque setting that sets the stage for a memorable Thanksgiving getaway. Whether you’re driving through snow-covered forests or winding your way along the shores of frozen lakes, the journey itself becomes an integral part of the experience.

These accommodations provide a perfect retreat, inviting you to unwind and embrace the holiday spirit.

    • Doc’s Harbor is located along the river and gives you your own space to enjoy. It gives you the at-home feel.
    • The Can Am Inn is located in a convenient downtown location with cozy rooms and friendly staff.
    • The Hampton Inn features a large bar in their lobby to watch the Thanksgiving Football games.

Check out the local shops in Warroad for your Christmas shopping needs.

  • Stop by The Plaid Walleye to see what local artists are creating.
  • Swing into Bloomin’ Creations for great gift ideas.
  • Then over to Annie’s Trading Post for everything under the sun…great apparel items, gift ideals, home décor, holiday gifts, shoes, and great deals.
  • Don’t forget about Warroad Threads where you can pick up the latest HockeytownUSA gear or check off the Christmas list with Hockey Day MN Gear.
  • Derby Tickets make great stocking stuffers and will be available at many local busineses

For those seeking a more active Thanksgiving, Northern Minnesota has a plethora of outdoor activities to offer. Depending on the weather, you might embark on a cross-country skiing or snowshoeing adventure through snow-covered trails. Alternatively, if the lakes are frozen, ice fishing becomes a popular pastime. 

Before heading back home, make plans to attend the 7th Annual Light Up The Holidays event. On Saturday, Nov. 25 head to Allison Park for hot chocolate and cookies, see Santa, and watch the park light up with Christmas lights.

In the midst of the serene landscapes and a welcoming community, a Thanksgiving vacation in Northern Minnesota provides the ideal environment for reflection and gratitude. Take a moment to step outside, breathe in the crisp air, and appreciate the simple joys that surround you. Whether it’s the sight of snowflakes gently falling or the warmth of a crackling fire, Warroad offers the perfect backdrop for expressing thanks.