Calendar of Mississippi Headwater Events
If you enjoy taking a relaxing, beautiful, recreational paddle with other people along with a social event in a timeless, natural environment, then the Mississippi river offers recreational activities for the whole family! We call this RESOURCETAINMENT (resource + entertainment). Come paddle and/or enjoy events located on the upper Minnesota Mississippi river and experience the entertainment each event has to offer. Please view the events below and add them all or just the ones you want to your phone calendar.
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Mississippi River History Paddle
Most people would rather view history than read about it, so a Water History Paddling Excursion event is being offered this year. Bring your own kayak, canoe, or Paddleboard and enjoy a peaceful paddle on the Mississippi River from Lum Park to Kiwanis Park. Along the way you can stop and view signage on the Mississippi river of where past structures and events took place that helped shape this community. The event is FREE and a FREE shuttle service is provided to return those participating back to Lum Park to retrieve vehicles. Registration is not required, but please let us know if you are coming at: Facebook Event
Date: Saturday, August 15, 2026 • Time: 2:30 PM to 5:00 PM • Location: Launch at Lum Park in Brainerd, MN and paddle to Kiwanis Park
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Add to iPhone/Apple (must use Safari to open)Woods & Water Paddling Adventure
Thousands of people cross the rocks at the headwaters of the Mississippi River each year, far fewer venture onto Lake Itasca by boat to discover the natural beauty of the river's source. The Mississippi Headwaters Board invites you to bring your canoe, kayak, or paddleboard to Itasca State Park for a short paddle to the headwaters. We will start at the Lake Itasca Public Water Access carry-in site located next to the Itasca Sports summer rental shop. Upon landfall, we will gather at the historic Douglas Lodge Restaurant overlooking Lake Itasca on the opposite shore to share stories, great food, local brews, and wine. There is no registration or fee to participate in the event. Canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards are available to rent from Itasca Sports.
Date: Saturday, August 22, 2026 • Time: 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM • Location: Itasca State Park, 36750 Main Park Drive, Park Rapids, MN 56470
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Add to iPhone/Apple (must use Safari to open)Minnesota Paddling Championships
Enjoy two days of racing, paddling, camping, and great company at the Minnesota Paddling Championships! Whether you're racing for a championship or just looking for a fun weekend by the water, there's something for everyone. Not much of a racer? No problem! Join the fun in the Beaver Paddle Battle, which welcomes any paddle-powered watercraft. This is a two-day event featuring multiple races for a variety of age groups and paddle craft. Bring your lawn chairs, cooler, water shoes, and something to grill over the campfire. Camping is welcome, making it the perfect weekend getaway. On Saturday evening, relax and enjoy live music from 5:00 p.m - 8:00 p.m. Whether your a spectator or a racer; learn more or register for a race at: Minnesota Paddling Championships
Date: Saturday, September 5, 2026 • Time: 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM • Location: Parking available at 3210 Lake Avenue, Bemidji, MN
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