Free events in Brainerd, MN

In the Brainerd and Baxter area, Old Soul Artisan Bakery is on hand every Friday this summer with a wide selection of fresh breads and sweets. The weekly lineup features ten sourdough varieties, including Country, Heritage Wheat, Rosemary Olive Oil, Parmesan Garlic, Jalapeno Cheddar, Cranberry Wild Rice, classic Sandwich Bread, Whole Wheat Sandwich Bread, Italian Herb and Cheese Sandwich Bread, and Honey Oat Sandwich Bread. Brioche hamburger buns and brioche hot dog buns are available as well. On the sweeter side, look for a rotating assortment of scones, four packs of sticky buns and cinnamon rolls, filled bombolini donuts, fritters most weeks, chocolate chip cookies topped with sea salt, and sourdough brownies. The bakery appears alongside many other local farmers and producers.

Family Fun Day brings the community together at Gregory Park for a free celebration filled with games, activities, prizes, and giveaways. Hosted by the Relationship Safety Alliance, this family-friendly gathering welcomes all ages and offers a chance to learn about the organization’s programs and services. Those interested in donating, volunteering, or sponsoring can call 218-828-1216 for more information. Please note that vendor participation is free, and any posts promoting vendor sign-ups or fees are fraudulent and should be reported.

The Brainerd Ski Loons Water Ski Show Team takes to the water with coordinated ballet style formations and exciting aerial tricks off the ski jump. Attendees can bring chairs, and concessions will be available from the Ski Loons. This community based nonprofit supports personal development, teamwork, and community involvement through water sports.

Enjoy a free poker night where volunteer dealers handle the shuffling and dealing, and they are happy to help newer players. Prizes are awarded for first, second, and third place, with the possibility of more. Plan to arrive early to secure a seat and to grab food and drinks. The league operates on donations only, so contributions are appreciated if you like what they do. And if a dealer treats you well at the table, consider thanking them with a pint. Always fun and always free.

An annual community gathering built around a bright, celebratory vibe that carries through the entire event. The focus is on creating a positive mood and a warm sense of togetherness.

Watch the Brainerd Ski Loons Water Ski Show Team take to the water with precision ballet-style formations and exciting jumps from the ski ramp. Bring chairs for comfortable viewing, and enjoy concessions offered by the Ski Loons. This local nonprofit team is dedicated to personal growth, teamwork, and community involvement through water sports.

Gregory Park hosts a no-cost, all-ages summer concert featuring Trent Bergeron, who enjoys performing for audiences young and old. This performance is part of a community series presented by Friends of Gregory Park together with Brainerd Community Action. Attendees can come with friends and settle in on lawn chairs or blankets while taking in live music in the park. Sponsorship comes from Blue Cross Blue Shield, Walden Real Estate Group, Greenheck Auto Glass, Mills Automotive Group, and Deerwood Bank.