Finding Connection in the Quiet | Escape to the Lake |Winter Edition

Winter Offers a Rare Kind of Inspiration on a Frozen Lake

In winter, nature offers a rare kind of inspiration — the hush of a frozen lake, the soft creak of ice beneath your boots, and the wide-open sky stretching endlessly overhead. In those quiet moments waiting for a bite, creativity flows naturally, untethered from distractions and deadlines. The stillness invites reflection. Each season brings its own magic, but winter’s calm has a special way of sharpening the senses, slowing the pace, and turning a simple day outdoors into a peaceful, creative escape.

A Chilling Connection

Standing on a frozen lake, the world feels bigger and smaller at the same time. The ice hums and cracks beneath your feet, a reminder that nature is alive even when it looks still. The horizon stretches endlessly, and for a moment theres nothing to do but breathe and listen. Just the sound of wind across snow and your own thoughts settling into place.

Tap into your Creative Side

Out on Minnesota’s frozen lakes, anglers discover that ice fishing isn’t just about the catch — it’s also about creativity, calm, and connection. Between watching tip-ups and sipping something warm, it’s the perfect time to journal your thoughts, sketch the winter landscape, plan your next getaway, or capture the still beauty through a camera lens. Surrounded by snow-covered shores, crisp air, and endless sky, the ice becomes a place to slow down, breathe deeply, and let inspiration flow as freely as the conversation and laughter inside the fish house.

Meet Sherry Johnson a Woman Angler and Wildlife Artist

Let your hobby fuel your passion

Roseau County resident Sherry Johnson is an avid angler and an artist who draws inspiration from being on the lake in any season. She is an angler with a talent for pulling in trophy-worthy catches; her time on the ice often doubles as inspiration for her paintings, including her trout artwork that earned runner-up honors in the Minnesota DNR State Stamp Contest. Born and raised in Roseau County, Sherry embodies the spirit of northern Minnesota outdoors, blending talent, passion, and creativity into every adventure on the ice. It’s clear from the detail in her work that she is connected to the catch and the thrill of it.

Find your inspiration and tranquility this winter in
Roseau County.

Book your Lodging now.

Women on the Ice: Fishing Lake of the Woods, Her Way

.For generations, fishing has been labeled a “man’s sport.” But spend any time on Lake of the
Woods in the heart of winter, and that outdated idea melts faster than ice in April. Women
anglers are out here in force—drilling holes, reading the bite, hauling up trophy fish, and doing it
all with confidence, skill, and their own unique style.
Ice fishing on Lake of the Woods isn’t about fitting into a mold. It’s about enjoying the
experience, and women are proving every season that there’s no single way to fish.

Let’s get one thing straight: women don’t just tag along—we catch fish. Big fish. From walleye to
sauger, northern pike to jumbo perch, women anglers consistently put fish on the ice. Whether
it’s setting the hook with precision or knowing exactly when to move to a new spot, experience
and instinct matter far more than gender.
Lake of the Woods is famous for its world-class fishing, and women take full advantage of it.
Early mornings, late bites, freezing temps—it’s all part of the adventure. And when that rod
bends and the ice hole comes alive, nothing compares to the rush

Flannel and Frost Winterfest 2026 | Be BOLD in the Cold

Updated on January 20, 2026

Flannel and Frost Winterfest – Roseau, MN is Minnesota’s Winter City

Roseau, Minnesota, proudly embraces its reputation as “Minnesota’s Winter City,” and there’s no better testament to this than the annual Flannel and Frost Winter Festival. Scheduled for February 27-March 1, 2026, this winter festival offers a blend of traditional favorites and exciting new events, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Featured Winter Festival Events: Sign up Required on some Events.

Watch downtown Roseau come alive at the
Northern Lights Parade

Explore Roseau, on the Polaris City-wide Scavengar Hunt

If you find one of the 50 Polaris Cards that look like this, you can redeem it for a free winter hat at the Polaris Experience Center.

Don't miss A Nordic Evening with Comedian\ Storyteller Chad Filley

Lutefisk, Immigrants, and Lutheran Guilt

Join storyteller Chad Filley for Lutefisk, Immigrants, and Lutheran Guilt, a humorous and heartfelt program that blends history with everyday life. Through stories rooted in regional and Scandinavian traditions, Filley shares funny family memories, true tales of immigrants and their descendants, and familiar experiences tied to heritage, faith, and community.

With warmth and wit, this engaging program is easy to follow and enjoyable for all ages. Audiences will laugh, learn, and recognize pieces of their own lives reflected in the stories

Free; open to all ages!

Watch a Video of Chad Filley (Click on this Link)

Book your lodging now:

View Lodging options in Roseau.

Nights of Lights at Pioneer Farm 2026

Nights of Lights
was made possible by our volunteers and sponsors

Rebecca Lundgren - Roots Grounded in Community
Sinnamon Krings- Roseau Promotions Director

Josee Bakke - The Skinery Jason Holter- Holter Floral and Greenhouse

Thank you for these generous donations:

Nights of Lights is 100% volunteer-based, and without support from our sponsors, it would not be possible. We are thankful for you!

Thank you to those who lent a helping hand~
Gracia and Stu Nelson, Joe Tesarek, Todd Peterson, Stoe Farms, Deb and Dwight Ruud, Erica & Neil Vatnsdal Family, Penny & Cameron Byfuglien, Connie Nelson, Beau Keagle, Mary Huglen, Pat Westman, National Honor Society, Citizens State Bank, Border Bank, Roseau County Museum and Sinnamon and Rebeccas husbands, Dan and Corey who keep the lights on at home, build props and do matienence on everything broken for the month of November and December.

Special Thanks to the Pioneer Farm Board, who allow this event to happen on the farm and give their support and encouragement.

Nights of Lights — Dennis Smedsmo Vintage Truck

Polaris Wins Coolest Thing Made in Minnesota Award

Who designed the "Coolest Thing Made in Minnesota" in 2025?

.

Polaris has been designing some pretty amazing machines right here in northern Minnesota since 1954 — starting with the snowmobile that helped put Roseau on the map. Decades later, that same spirit of innovation continues to thrive, earning Polaris recognition from the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce as the winner of the “Coolest Thing Made in Minnesota 2025.”

Meet the Polaris MRZR - Military RZR

The winning creation wasn’t a snowmobile this time, but a powerful tactical military vehicle known as the MRZR (M Razor) — a rugged, high-performance machine built for mobility, versatility, and adventure. It’s a proud reminder that Minnesota craftsmanship is leading the way, not only on the trails but across the globe.

The MRZR Alpha Units are Built in Roseau, MN

The MRZR Alpha units are built in Roseau, MN so the win brought Polaris – Roseau a huge sense of pride. The MRZR is a light tactical off-road vehicle build for special operations and expeditionary forces. The MRZR Alpha comes with advanced durability and performance including a more durable chassis, a high performance 8-speed transmission, high clearance front and rear dual a-arm suspension, exportable power capability, up to 2,000-pound payload capacity, and maintained compact footprint & V-22 transportability to allow for air transport and helicopter transport. The MRZR Alpha can also be accessorized to operate in arctic conditions increasing its versatility.

Program Manager, Blair Johnson says “We are so incredibly proud to be recognized this way. The MRZR Alpha is the most capable light tactical vehicle in the world. It’s engineered for the harshest terrain, allowing customers to operate under full payload at a fast pace in austere conditions. It’s specifically designed for air transport and is configurable for different environments and unique missions, all while maintaining simple, intuitive operation. It’s truly an amazing vehicle and we leveraged the broader company in its development – from our off-road engineering expertise and manufacturing excellence – to design and build it in Roseau.

It’s an honor to “serve those who serve” and know that we are providing warfighters with such a great mobility asset. And a lot of that pride comes from knowing that nearly half of our team are veterans themselves, which provides even greater insight to mission demands and a greater level of customer understanding. We are proud to continue a 20+ year tradition of providing light tactical vehicles to military forces and allied partners globally." - Blair Johnson

Blair Johnson Tweet

Polaris have the MRZR Alpha on display in their front lobby of Polaris Roseau. Swing in to see it and take advantage of the manufacturing tours M-F at 2:00pm while you are at it!

Discover Northern Minnesota’s Ultimate Car Haven at The Shed in Warroad

10/2/2025

Northwest MN's Largest Car Collection - The Shed in Warroad

Buckle up for the ride of a lifetime at The Shed in Warroad, MN – a hidden roadside museum boasting the most extensive collection of classic and muscle cars in Northern Minnesota! Nestled in the heart of “Hockeytown USA,” this isn’t your ordinary car collection—it’s a thrilling journey through automotive history. The shed is a 24,000-square-foot building that is home to unique vehicles and collector’s items that will leave you in awe.

The Shed has no set hours because it is a private collection. If you are in Warroad and see a green light on the building, stop in for a tour. This is the sign that they are open for guests. You are being welcomed into a showroom with over 90 meticulously curated automobiles, each with its unique story.

A Collection to be Preserved and Celebrated

Owned by none other than Bob Marvin, of Marvin Windows fame and also the Mayor of Warroad, this collection isn’t just about cars—it’s a testament to passion and legacy. For Bob, it all began in 1981 when he purchased his first car a ’65 Riviera. The Shed in Warroad began as a passion project for Bob, a car aficionado who envisioned a space where the rich automotive heritage of the region could be preserved and celebrated. What started as a modest garage quickly became a treasure trove of meticulously restored vehicles, each with its own story. These stories come alive if Bob or Rick are around to give you a personal tour.

From iconic muscle cars to rare gems once driven by Hollywood stars like Nicholas Cage, The Fonz’s Girlfriends car from Happy Days, and even Fords Presidential campaign vehicles, every corner of The Shed sparks wonder and admiration. Some cars are the first in their model but all of them are uniquely special.

And it’s not just about the cars. The Shed is a community hub that welcomes visitors with open doors and no admission fee. A collection jar is out if you want to donate to support local initiatives. Bob and Loralee Marvin are always finding ways to give back to their community and help organizations such as the Cancer Society and Relay for Life. Whether you’re a car enthusiast or love a good story, The Shed in Warroad promises an unforgettable experience.

From a 1926 Ford Model T to modern marvels like the 2005 Ford GT, every vehicle here is a piece of history restored to its former glory. Marvel at the craftsmanship, soak in the nostalgia of vibrant 1950s ice cream parlor colors, wax gleamed hoods, and witness firsthand the artistry that defined an era when cars were not just transportation but symbols of freedom and creativity.

So, whether you’re planning a cross-country expedition or a weekend getaway, make The Shed in Warroad your next destination. It’s more than a collection of cars; it’s a celebration of passion, community, and the thrill of the unknown. Embrace the journey- its not just for car lovers. Anyone can appreciate the history and diverse range of automobiles in the museum.The ’private collection is worth the trip but don’t just take our word for it—experience it yourself.

Visit The Shed and see why this is a must-do for all who visit the borderland region.

Your next adventure awaits at 113 Lake St. NE, Suite B, Warroad, MN.

Unlock the thrill of discovery and let The Shed ignite your passion for the road ahead!

To take a tour or find out hours of operation, the Marvins say to call the house 218 386-2485 or reach them on their cell at 218 242-1498. If you are driving by, watch for the green light and stop in. If Bob or Rick are around, it will be a tour you will never forget.

Connect with The Shed on Facebook

A video tour of The Shed Car Collection

Love Locks – A New Installation of “Love Padlocks” in Roseau

“Love Locks” A New Artistic Movement in Roseau, MN

A beautiful new tradition is taking root in Downtown Roseau!

Love Locks is an artistic movement participated in worldwide. Love Locks symbolize connection, memory, and lasting love.

What Are Love Locks?

The tradition began in Europe, where couples would inscribe their names on padlocks and fasten them to bridges or gates, then throw away the key—symbolizing unbreakable love or cherished memories. Over time, this meaningful gesture spread across the globe, becoming a way for people to honor everything from romantic relationships to friendships, milestones, or loved ones lost. It’s now a trendy tourist activity to attach a lock at a bridge in Paris, a gate at Juliette’s Balcony in Verona Italy, or the Koln Bridge in Germany. It a global sensation, and everyone wants to be part of it.

A Gallery of Love Lock Installments from around the World

💖 A New Tradition in Roseau

Roseau’s Love Locks Installation: Love, Rust, and Resilience

Thanks to the creative spark from Tough Times and the strong support of Roseau’s Visitors Bureau, downtown Roseau is now home to a one-of-a-kind Love Locks Art Installation—a place to celebrate connection in all its forms.

At the center of it all? A vintage tractor—not just a piece of old machinery, but a powerful symbol of the love we build, grow, and weather over time.

The tractor, brought in by Tough Times owner Darrin Smedsmo, adds a meaningful twist to this growing tradition. Tractors represent work, endurance, and roots—much like the strongest relationships. They’ve seen early mornings, heavy loads, and long seasons. They carry stories in every dent and speck of rust.

So when you clip a lock to this tractor, you’re not just marking a moment—you’re linking your story to a symbol of grit, loyalty, and heartland pride. Whether it’s romantic love, deep friendship, a personal journey, or a memory worth holding onto, it belongs here.

Bring your padlock—or pick one up in the shop—engrave it, lock it on, and become part of Roseau’s shared story. Because real love isn’t polished—it’s weathered, worn, and still rolling forward.

Buy a Lock and Help get our Start

Bring your padlock and buy a special heart-shaped lock at Tough Times on October 4 and be part of the very first group to “lock in” your love in Roseau. Take a selfie and share your post.

Whether you’re commemorating your wedding day, honoring a friend, or just sharing a little local love—this is your moment. ❤️🔒

Roseau Outdoor Sports Show

Roseau Sports Show

The Roseau Sports Show

Everything You Need for Fall & Winter Outdoor Life!

Roseau Event Center
Saturday, October 4, 2025
9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Northern Minnesota’s premier fall outdoor expo is back!
This free, family-friendly event brings together the best in hunting, fishing, trapping, snowmobiling, ice fishing, RVs, ATVs, taxidermy, apparel, and everything in between — all under one roof at the Roseau Event Center!

⸻

What Can Visitors Expect?

Vendors featuring gear, apparel, and outdoor services
ATVs, RVs, snowmobiles & powersports on display
Live demos, guest speakers, and prize giveaways
Full coverage and livestreams by Cold Vision Outdoors
Food, fall treats, family fun, and interactive exhibits!

⸻

Outdoor Business in Roseau?

Exhibit for FREE!

If your business supports the outdoor lifestyle — hunting, fishing, gear, trapping, motorsports, outfitting, apparel, or anything outdoors — and you’re based in the Roseau area, we’d love to have you!

Reserve your FREE vendor booth here:
https://forms.gle/f1Wr4LANS9DXLM249

Indoor & outdoor booth space available
Get featured in advertising, livestreams, and recap videos
Boost your visibility through Cold Vision Outdoors content

⸻

Don’t Miss It!

Whether you’re shopping, showcasing, or just soaking up the fall vibes, the Roseau Sports Show is your place to connect, explore, and celebrate the outdoor life that defines our region.

Meet our Sponsor: Coldvision Outdoors

Roots Revived Women’s Retreat

Revive and Reconnect in Roseau, MN

October 2-4, 2025 Hosted at Pioneer Farm and Village

Join us this fall for Roots Revived Women’s Retreat, a weekend of rest, renewal, and reconnection at the beautiful Pioneer Farm and Village in Roseau, MN. Nestled among towering oak trees glowing with fall color, this retreat is designed to help you slow down, reconnect with yourself, and soak in the peace of the season.

What to Expect:

Wellness workshops to nourish body, mind, and spirit
Creative sessions to get inspired and hands-on
Leisurely strolls along scenic farm trails under a canopy of autumn leaves
Cozy evenings by the campfire
Outdoor saunas under the stars
Delicious meals prepared by someone else – so you can truly relax
You can even head to town for a chance to explore the charming Fall Harvest Festival

This retreat allows you to connect your way. You can be as busy as you like or find quiet moments.

Whether you’re looking for quiet reflection, connection with other women, or a little bit of both – this weekend is yours.

🧡 This is your invitation to step away from the noise and come back to yourself.

Let nature ground you. Let the community uplift you. Let the season work its magic.

Its your time fill it as you like with these suggested activities

Cost $350 per person
Price includes events listed above and a meal plan for all but one lunch while at the Fall Harvest Festival.
No Refunds but is transferable

BOOK LODGING

Feast of Nations

Join us on a Culinary Journey

FEAST OF NATIONS
A Culinary Journey Through Culture

📍 Roseau Memorial Arena
📅 October 3 | 6:00–8:00 PM

Join us for an unforgettable evening celebrating the vibrant cultures rooted in Roseau through authentic cuisine and festive flair.

✨ Enjoy full-course meals — including sides and dessert — from:
Philipines | Mexico | Puerto Rico
🍹 Open bar provided by Dahlia’s

🎟️ $30 per plate and a $3.85 booking fee -Payments will appear on statements from Eventbrite
(No plate sharing. Take-home boxes provided.)
Very limited seating — RSVP today!

Reserve my Meal (Non Refundable but Transferable)

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