Willmar
Surrounded by rich farmlands, scenic
lakes, and rolling hills is Willmar, Kandiyohi’s hub city and County Seat.
With a population of around 20,000, Willmar is the fastest
growing
city in Minnesota, outside of the metropolitan area.
Community members have worked hard to make this city a successful
commercial center as well as a great place to live. In 2005,
Willmar was one of only ten cities in the United States to
win the All-America City designation. Willmar has also been
listed in the top 100 micropolitan cities by Site Selection
magazine, a publication for economic developers and facility
planning executives.
With 35 neighborhood parks including a skate park for in-line
skaters and skateboarders plus the new Dorothy Olson Aquatic
Center, there’s plenty of opportunity in all neighborhoods
for children and families, young and old, to get outdoors and
make the most of every day. In addition to playground equipment,
grills, tables, and shelters, the Park and Recreation Department
has many special events planned throughout the summer.
And be sure not to miss Robbins Island. The 55-acre island
is located between Willmar and Foot lakes. Hiking and biking
trails snake throughout the island’s wooded park. A sandy
swimming beach with lifeguards on duty is open throughout the
summer. Seven shelters, two with electricity, are available
for picnics, family reunions, and other gathering events (reservations
are required). A soccer field, shore fishing, and a public
boat access round out the island’s many recreational
opportunities.
Festivals are a large part of Willmar’s social events.
WillmarFests is
made up of three distinct festivals: AquaFest, KaffeeFest,
and International Fest. Over a
four-day period, the city comes alive with parades, a water
ski show, a concert, a downtown block party, international
events, and fireworks.
Each summer in July the city hosts one of the country’s
largest Christian music events, SonShine
Festival (sponsored
by SonShine Productions). Thousands attend the annual music
festival which has grown over the last 25 years from one stage
and eight performers to five stages and over 100 performers.
Celebrate
Art! Celebrate Coffee! is a festival celebrating
visual, performing, and literary arts. The Community
Band performs
every Wednesday night during the summer at Rice Park. The Barn
Community Theatre performs six different productions each year
to packed audiences.
Once each week throughout the summer, downtown
Willmar hosts
Becker Market, an open air market with a multi-cultural flair.
Artisans, farmers, and other producers offer their wares from
3 to 7 p.m.
Malls, an active downtown, and varied dining opportunities
round out the Willmar lifestyle. See you in Willmar!
Attractions in Willmar
see Attractions Page
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