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Discover the Magic of the Over The River Holiday Festival 2024 in Fergus Falls

The holiday season is upon us, and Fergus Falls, Minnesota, is ready to spread joy and cheer with the highly anticipated Over The River Holiday Festival 2024. This family-friendly event, brimming with activities, entertainment, and festive traditions, promises to be a highlight of the year. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the festival offers something for everyone to enjoy.

A Grand Entrance: Santa’s Arrival

The excitement kicks off with Santa’s Arrival at the Fergus Falls Airport from 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM. Children and families can watch Santa make his grand entrance and snap a memorable photo with him.

Afterward, Santa and his Elves will head to Springboard for the Arts in Downtown Fergus Falls, for more photo opportunities from 11:45 AM to 2:30 PM. Springboard will also host a photo booth with the photographer Nik Nerburn from 12pm to 4:30pm. This is the perfect chance to get a festive snapshot to cherish for years to come.

Bright Lights and Cozy Rides

From 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM, Otter Tail Power will host a light exchange at the Spies Park. Trade a non-perishable food item for LED holiday lights. This is an eco-friendly and community-friendly way to refresh your holiday decor! Food items will be donated to the Fergus Falls Area Food Shelf.

For a truly magical experience, hop on a horse-drawn carriage ride in front of Kaddatz Galleries from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM. These rides will take you through the festive streets of downtown, creating memories of holiday charm.

Arts, Crafts, and Markets

Art lovers and families alike will enjoy the Arts and Artisan Market at Kaddatz Galleries from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Browse a variety of local vendors, participate in family-friendly art activities, and explore artistic demonstrations. Enjoy the Makers Market with amazing vendors at Outstate Brewing beginning at 10 AM. Don’t forget to enter the art raffle and visit the gift area for unique holiday finds while sipping on refreshments.

For those feeling creative, the festival offers stained glass ornament-making—a perfect activity to create keepsakes for your tree. Visit Stained- a Glass Art Studio at 205 W Lincoln Ave (sister business to the Flower Mill.)

Downtown Festivities

Downtown Fergus Falls will be alive with music, laughter, and good cheer:

  • Stroll through downtown to the sounds of carolers and live music at the Spies Park from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM, featuring performances by various artists.
  • Capture the essence of winter at the Frozen-themed photo ops with cider at Spies Park.
  • Test your skills with axe throwing and warm up with beer poking on Court Street, courtesy of Fergus Brewing.
  • Food trucks will line Court Street from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM, serving up delicious eats to fuel your adventures.
  • Visit hot cocoa stands and information booths, and take part in the window display voting contest to choose your favorite decorated storefront.

Spectacular Light Show and Tree Lighting Ceremony

 

The festival will conclude with the traditional Tree Lighting Ceremony, complete with performances by a choir and the announcement of the window display contest winner. The night will end with a Tree Lightning  and a dazzling display of fireworks, lighting up the sky in celebration of the holiday season. You can enjoy a good beer while watching the fireworks at Outstate Brewing!

After the fireworks, the Otter Cove Festival of Lights, presented by Leighton Media, will illuminate the Kirkbride with breathtaking displays.

Library Activities

The Fergus Falls Public Library will also host special holiday activities. Stay tuned for more details on their festive offerings!

Join the Holiday Spirit!

The Over The River Holiday Festival 2024 is your chance to embrace the warmth and magic of the holiday season. Mark your calendars, invite your friends and family, and join us in celebrating this cherished Fergus Falls tradition.

For more updates and details, visit our website or follow us on social media. We can’t wait to see you there!

 

 

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Need cash for the activities?

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The BMO ATM will be available to get the cash you need!

Thank You to Our Generous Sponsors

We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to the following sponsors and contributors who have made the Over The River Holiday Festival 2024 possible:

 

Event Organizers & Hosts

 

  • City of Fergus Falls – $1,500 toward fireworks and free street closure materials.
  • Visit Fergus Falls

Santa's Support Team

  • Andrew Yaggie – Santa’s pilot.
  • Fergus Falls Fire Department – Santa’s chauffeurs.
  • Summerfest Elves – Santa Fly-In volunteers.

Activity Sponsors

  • Otter Tail Power – Light Exchange.
  • Fergus Brewing Company – Firepits on Court Street.
  • Outstate Brewing Company – Hosting the Maker’s Market.
  • Springboard for the Arts – Hosting Santa pictures and activities.
  • Kaddatz Galleries – Art & Artisan Market and other activities.
  • SAGA Youth – Frozen characters and cider.

Community Contributors

  • BMO
  • Dr. Ibrahim Khan, LRHC Family Medicine
  • Freedom Resource Center
  • Lake Region Arts Council – Hosting Girl Scout Troop 31023.
  • Kennedy Secondary School NHS Volunteers – Event volunteers.
  • Soapy Puppy's Bed & Biscuit – Decorations and assistance with decorating.
  • Otter Cove Children's Museum – Kirkbride Light Show.

Individual Contributors

  • Tami Revering