Labor Day Weekend in the Willmar Lakes Area: Where to Stay, Eat & Unwind
Labor Day weekend is the unofficial farewell to summer, a final chance to sleep in, spend time outside, enjoy a great meal, and squeeze in one more Minnesota adventure before fall arrives.
From September 4–7, 2026, the Willmar Lakes Area offers a surprisingly full holiday weekend, with dirt-track racing, lake cruises, live music, local markets, outdoor recreation, and a classic car show. Here’s how to turn the long weekend into a relaxing four-day getaway.
Friday: Start with Racing & Local Flavor
Kick off the weekend with an evening at KRA Speedway in Willmar. The Friday, September 4 race begins at 7 p.m., with all seven racing classes scheduled to take the track. The 3/8-mile semi-banked dirt track sits at the Kandiyohi County Fairgrounds and offers grandstand seating for up to 1,200 spectators.
After the checkered flag, head to Ruff’s Wings & Sports Bar for a casual meal, drinks, and a chance to keep the evening going.
Saturday: Shop Local & Head to the Lake
Start Saturday morning at Farmers Market on First, held at Goodness Coffee Company at 812 1st St. S in Willmar. The market runs Saturdays from 7:30 a.m. to noon through October 3, with local produce, handmade goods, kids’ activities, and live music.
Then make your way to Green Lake for a true lakeside experience. The Bloody Mary Cruise departs from Zorbaz on Green Lake from 11 a.m.–1 p.m. on September 5, while live music featuring Alex Zackary is scheduled on the Zorbaz patio starting at 6 p.m.
Sunday: Slow Down & Explore
Sunday is the perfect day to trade your itinerary for fresh air.
At Sibley State Park, visitors can enjoy nearly 2,900 acres of trails, forests, prairies, wetlands, and lakes. The park is open 8 a.m.–10 p.m. daily, and the 2026 Labor Day weekend programming includes Fish Prints and Get Hooked on Fishing on September 6.
Later, return to Green Lake for the Sunday Brunch Cruise, scheduled for 11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m. on September 6, followed by live music at Zorbaz from 2–6 p.m.
Monday: End the Weekend with a Classic
Before heading home, make one final stop at the 17th Annual Trolls Classic Car Show & Swap Meet in Sunburg. The Labor Day event runs from 9 a.m.–2:30 p.m. at the Sunburg Community Center, with classic cars, trophies, food, and craft vendors. Spectator admission is free.
Where to Stay in the Willmar Lakes Area
Make the most of the long weekend by staying close to the action. Best Western Plus Willmar is connected to the Willmar Conference Center, while Holiday Inn Express & Suites Willmar offers convenient access to Willmar attractions. Families may enjoy the indoor pool and waterslide at Country Inn & Suites Willmar, while Hampton Inn Spicer Green Lake puts guests close to Green Lake and its lakeside activities.
After a summer filled with adventure, Labor Day weekend is the perfect excuse to slow down, stay awhile, and enjoy one last taste of summer in the Willmar Lakes Area.