Otter Tail Lakes Country

06/16/2026

The Phelps Mill Festival is just around the corner. July 11th & 12th.
Enjoy crafts, art, food, music and so much more at one of the best county parks around.

06/15/2026

Located in Vining, Big Foot Gas & Grocery is much more than a place to fill up the tank. Whether you're stocking up on snacks, grabbing bait before a day on the water, picking up groceries, or making a quick stop on your way through Lakes Country, they've become a go-to stop for locals and visitors alike. And let's be honest, the real showstopper is all the giant statues out front! If you're making your way along the Giants of Otter Tail County tour, the watermelon is right out front. Don't miss the larger-than-life foot statue from which our partner gets their name, located down the road a couple of blocks. We're grateful they've joined as partners this year, so stop by and let 'em know your inner otter sentchya!

06/15/2026

Ready to live and work where you vacation? Here are a few jobs to check into ⤵
👨‍🔧 City of Battle Lake is hiring a full-time Public Works Tech/Utilities Operator and a part-time Facilities Maintenance Worker
🛏 Fair Hills Resort is looking for a Head Housekeeper to lead their fun team of people keeping the resort clean and ready for guests
🍕 Continental Divide Brew Pub, LLC needs a few Bartenders and Servers with experience to serve up some phenomenal pizza and crafty beverages
Check out more opportunities on our jobs portal👉 ottertaillakescountry.com/jobs/

06/15/2026

The calendar is filling up, and Lakes Country is bringing the fun this week! 🎉☀️

🐢 Celebrate at Turtle Fest in Perham
🎈 Stop by the 115th Anniversary Party at United Community Bank while you're enjoying Turtle Fest festivities
🎡 Experience the excitement of the Wadena County Fair
🤝 Join the community fun at Friendship Festival in Pelican Rapids
🎨 Welcome the season at the Summer Solstice celebration with Art of the Lakes

Whether you're looking for family fun, live entertainment, local traditions, or creative experiences, there's something happening all across Lakes Country this week. Check out our website for event details and start planning your next adventure!

06/15/2026

Just east of Underwood, Historic Fort Juelson is a unique county-owned park that preserves the site of a 1876 fort built by settlers. The Friends of Fort Juelson support the park, and we're fortunate to have them as partners this year. On June 26, the Friends will celebrate the 150th Anniversary of Fort Juelson with historic tours, community activities, and a special celebration at the site. It will be a wonderful opportunity to experience one of Otter Tail County's hidden historical gems firsthand. To learn about the planned activities, follow Otter Tail County Historical Society.

06/15/2026

Star Tribune INK:

Ottertail, population 700, is making headlines for tackling one of rural Minnesota’s biggest challenges: child care. Through community collaboration, local leadership, and generous investment, the town is doubling its child care capacity and creating opportunities for families, employers, and future growth. A powerful reminder that when a community comes together, amazing things can happen.

Way to go, Ottertail! 👏

A new project will double the capacity in a town where expectant parents once faced waitlists.

06/14/2026

Fresh produce, homemade goods, local music, and community connection, the Prairie Farmers Market is becoming a summer favorite in Parkers Prairie 🌽🛍️🎶

From meats and baked goods to handmade crafts and family-friendly workshops, this growing market brings together local vendors and visitors every Friday afternoon all summer long. Whether you’re heading to the lake, spending the day at the aquatic center, or simply looking to shop local, the Prairie Farmers Market is worth the stop.

Read more about how this community market is making fresh, local food accessible for everyone in Lakes Country: https://ottertaillakescountry.com/?p=142208

06/14/2026

The Great American Think-Off presented by the New York Mills Regional Cultural Center took place last night. After multiple rounds of debate, Allen Taylor of Colorado Springs, CO was the winner. His position was that the pursuit of happiness has NOT made Americans unhappy. Huge thanks to the NYMRCC for celebrating local while being a window to the world.

06/13/2026

The Vergas Kid's Art Camp was a huge success. Lots of little ones creating & sharing colorful pieces to be displayed in town until Labor Day Weekend. Great job everyone.

06/13/2026

So many festivals, so little time. Community celebrations are happening in Fergus Falls, New York Mills, Vergas and Wadena today. Friend of the program Aaron Simmons will be performing tonight at Wadena June Jubilee in BN Park starting at 8:30pm. Admission is $10. Fireworks to follow. This pic is Aaron and the band practicing this morning at WDC Public Schools.