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Gull Lake Frozen Fore: A Great Winter Event With Something for All Ages

The Brainerd Lakes Area of Minnesota has long been known as a top winter vacation destination. The area was initially discovered by settlers back in 1805 when Zebulon Pike was searching for the headwaters of the Mississippi River. The area really didn't come into its own until the 1870’s when the Northern Pacific Railroad made its way to town through the efforts of John Gregory Smith. Over the years, industries like lumber and paper helped the area attract new residents and companies. Now the Brainerd Lakes Area has over 100,000 residents and a steadily growing economy, with tourism as one of the top local industries.

 

When you choose the Brainerd Lakes Area, you’re going to find great lodging, attractions, and a wide range of fun things to do. Outdoor enthusiasts will love the scenic natural surroundings and activities like snowmobiling, ice fishing, Nordic skiing, snowshoeing and many more. If you need to rent equipment or receive instruction, you’ll find many outlets that provide both. When you need to warm up, there are numerous things to do indoors such as shopping at unique stores, grabbing a bite to eat at one of the great restaurants or rejuvenating at a full service spa. The cold weather doesn't stop the residents from getting out and having a great time. A good example of this is one of the can't-miss local events, the Gull Lake Frozen Fore.

 

For the past 11 years the Gull Lake Frozen Fore has been one of the most anticipated winter events in the Brainerd Lakes Area. People come from all over Minnesota, the Midwest and even further to take part in all the fun winter activities. The entire community gets involved and you’ll find events for all ages spread across town at participating businesses and locations. Whether you're traveling with your significant other, friends, or with your family, the Gull Lake Frozen Fore has something for everyone. We got the opportunity to interview Sarah Smith, the Special Events Coordinator for the Confidence Learning Center, to talk about the event.

 

RAL: Tell me a little bit about the event.

SS: We are proudly entering into the 11th year of the Gull Lake Frozen Fore. Each year we’ve gained in popularity and this year we expect to have over 1,500 people in attendance. The main golf and snowmobile portion of the event is for ages 21+, and it's the same with the bands that play each night starting at 9:00 pm. On Friday, our Frozen Flop (Polar Plunge) is for anyone willing to brave the icy waters with us. Saturday, we are adding events on the ice at Hole-in-the-Day Bay such as: Traveling Art Pub, an afternoon band, ice racing, a pancake feed and hot air balloon rides. All of  these events are family-friendly and provide fun for all ages. We end the weekend with our Foodfest on Sunday, which is also a family-friendly event.

 

RAL: What makes this event unique?

SS: The weekend has a lot of things going throughout. Having eight establishments band together to put on an amazing event is what makes us unique. We work together to raise money for the local community.

 

RAL: What can attendees expect to find during a typical day at the festival?

SS: Friday kicks off with the Frozen Flop (our version of a Polar Plunge). It is unique because it is held under a tent with bleachers for spectating. The event is held at 7:00 pm and usually attracts quite the crowd. We then have Boogie Wonderland playing great live music after the Flop. On Saturday, attendees can expect drink specials at each participating location, free shuttles all day long, and a whole lot of fun. Bands play in the tent starting at 3:00 pm and continue until 1:00 am. The entire weekend is a big party! Sunday we wrap up with our Foodfest, where we will have multiple vendors giving out samples of food.  New this year, we will be featuring a hot dish category, further tapping into our Minnesota roots. All of our participants are hoping to walk away with some of the $750 in cash prizes. In addition, we will have hot air balloon rides, ice racing, pancake feeds, and so much more.

 

RAL: What will visitors find for local lodging options?

SS: There are an abundance of great lodging options to choose from in the area. Regardless of your preference or budget, you’ll find the ideal lodging for you. Two great local options to consider are Cragun's Resort and Grand View Lodge.

 

RAL: What does the event mean to the community?

SS: One of the reasons this event was started was to bring more patrons to local businesses around Gull Lake during a slower time of year.  It accomplishes all of that and then some for us! Everything from restaurants to sporting equipment rentals see a boost during the duration of the event. In addition, nearly 70% of our participants come from outside of our local market.

 

This is a charitable event, with Confidence Learning Center as the primary beneficiary. Kids Against Hunger and Brainerd Lakes Area are also a major beneficiaries. Both charities have representatives on the committee that work year-round to help aid in the success of the event. Each of these organizations also supply the majority of the volunteers needed to run the events.

 

RAL: Why should people come to the event?

SS: We have something for everyone and every age at the Gull Lake Frozen Fore. It's a great way to break up the winter and have a great time. The residents here are warm, personable and welcome visitors into the community. The area has so much to offer, that your vacation may turn into a longer excursion. Join us and experience the best winter activities that the Brainerd Lakes Area has to offer.


For more information about the Gull Lake Frozen Fore, please visit their website.