Life in the Lake Communities
From summer lake days to winter ice fishing, fall color drives to spring farmers markets, here is what makes Mahtomedi, White Bear Lake, and the St. Croix River valley such special places to call home.
There's always something happening
in our neighborhoods.
After years of living in Mahtomedi and serving clients across these lake communities, I have come to appreciate that it is not just the homes that make this area special, it is the lifestyle. We just wrapped up an incredible stretch: the North Hudson Pepper Festival, Mahtomedi Community Theater's production, the White Bear Lake Vintage Boat Show, and the final Movies in the Park of the season all came and went in a wonderful blur. The farmers markets are still overflowing with sweet corn and tomatoes, and Pine Tree Apple Orchard is open for pick-your-own apples. Before that it was Manitou Days, Marketfest, the Fourth of July fireworks over White Bear Lake, Wannigan Days in Taylors Falls, RiverFest in Hudson, and the Polk County Fair. Now we are firmly into the golden transition from late summer into early fall. This Saturday, September 12, the Taste of White Bear Lake brings the area's best restaurants to the orchard, while the Mahtomedi Cornfest, Hudson Hometown Music Fest, Pitchfork Fall Festival, and Bald Eagle Lake Art Crawl land the same day. White Bear Township Day and Gloria's Food Shelf Shortest Marathon are September 19, Fall Fest weekend hits White Bear Lake September 26-28, and the Spirit of the St. Croix Art Festival is also September 26-27 in Hudson. The Hudson Fall Harvest Fest caps off the season October 10, and the Bear Water Run circles the lake on October 17. Here is what is happening right now and what to look forward to throughout the year.
September in the lake communities.
We have eased out of a wonderful late summer and into September, and the calendar is packed. The farmers markets are still overflowing with late-season produce, Pine Tree Apple Orchard is open for pick-your-own apples, the Taste of White Bear Lake lands at the orchard this Saturday, and a wave of fall festivals is just around the corner. The Mahtomedi Cornfest, Hudson Hometown Music Fest, Pitchfork Fall Festival, and Bald Eagle Lake Art Crawl all arrive September 12, with more to follow all month. Here is what is happening right now across the lake communities.
Pine Tree Apple Orchard is Open
Pine Tree Apple Orchard in White Bear Lake is now open for the season with pick-your-own apples, fresh apple cider donuts, hayrides, and a farm store stocked with local treats. The Honeycrisp and Zestar! apples are just coming into their prime. A beloved family tradition for generations of lake community families and the perfect way to welcome the transition from summer to fall.
Learn moreMahtomedi Cornfest, September 12
The 42nd Annual Mahtomedi Cornfest returns Saturday, September 12 from 2:00 to 10:00 PM at St. Jude of the Lake Catholic Church on Mahtomedi Avenue. Live music from headliner GB Leighton, a kids zone with inflatables, bingo, a craft fair, and the kind of small-town festival food that makes the end of summer so delicious: fresh corn on the cob, beer, wine, and margaritas. Over 2,000 people typically come out for this one. It is Mahtomedi at its best.
Learn moreTaste of White Bear Lake, September 12
Saturday, September 12 from 2:00 to 5:00 PM at Pine Tree Apple Orchard in Dellwood. The White Bear Lake Rotary Club hosts its favorite food-and-drink fundraiser of the year, with local restaurants and beverages sampling alongside live music, a wine cork pull, and a silent auction. It is a wonderful way to sample the best of the area dining scene and support the community at the same time. Tickets run about $40.
Learn moreHudson Hometown Music Fest, September 12
Saturday, September 12 starting at noon at 505 1st Street in Hudson. A free family-friendly music festival celebrating local and regional musicians with food vendors, craft beer, and that incredible Hudson riverfront atmosphere. This is one of those events that reminds you why the St. Croix Valley has such a vibrant music and arts scene. A perfect way to spend a September Saturday.
Learn moreFood Truck Friday, September 12 in Mahtomedi
Friday, September 12 from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at the Mahtomedi District Education Center. Local food trucks, yard games, and live music from the local band Run, Lucy, Run! It is one of those perfect late-summer evenings that Mahtomedi does so well, neighbors sitting on blankets, kids running around, and everyone soaking in the last warm nights before fall settles in.
Learn moreWhite Bear Township Day, September 19
Save the date for White Bear Township Day on Saturday, September 19 starting at 2:00 PM at 1281 Hammond Road. A wonderful community gathering that brings together neighbors, families, and local organizations for an afternoon of connection and small-town fun. This is exactly the kind of event that makes the lake communities feel like home from the moment you arrive.
Learn moreGloria's Food Shelf Shortest Marathon, September 19
Saturday, September 19 from 10:30 AM to noon. The 14th annual feel-good one-block marathon benefits the White Bear Area Food Shelf. Show up, run (or walk) the world's most forgiving course, and support neighbors in need. It is a short, sweet, and genuinely uplifting community tradition that says a lot about how these towns look out for each other.
Learn moreBear Water Run, October 17
The 25th annual Bear Water Run on Saturday, October 17 is a scenic 10-mile road race around White Bear Lake hosted by the White Bear Lake Lions Club. Runners wind along the lakeshore with the fall colors in full swing, and the whole community comes out to cheer. A great reason to get moving, meet neighbors, and soak up the best of an October morning by the lake.
Learn moreSpirit of the St. Croix Art Festival, September 26-27
One of the most anticipated events of the year along the St. Croix Valley. Saturday September 26 (10 AM to 5 PM) and Sunday September 27 (10 AM to 4 PM) at Lakefront Park in Hudson, WI. Over 80 juried artists, live music, hands-on demonstrations, and autumn foods set against the stunning backdrop of the St. Croix River. Presented by the Hudson Area Chamber in partnership with The Phipps Center. Free to attend.
Learn moreFall Fest in Downtown White Bear Lake, September 26-28
White Bear Lake welcomes autumn with a weekend-long Fall Fest celebration. The Scarecrow Stroll runs September 26-28 with creative scarecrow displays all through downtown. Fall Friendzy Ladies Night Out is September 26 from 5:00 to 8:00 PM with shopping and dining specials. And on September 28, head to Railroad Park from 1:00 to 4:00 PM for Polka & Pumpkin Painting, free pumpkin painting for the kids, and live polka music. Cozy, community-focused weekend fun.
Learn moreCarpenter Art Festival, August 29 in Hudson
This Saturday, August 29, celebrate local artisans in Hudson with live demonstrations, art sales, and hands-on creative activities for all ages. A wonderful way to spend the last Saturday of August and connect with the vibrant arts community on the Wisconsin side of the St. Croix.
Learn moreBald Eagle Lake Art Crawl, September 12
The 3rd annual Bald Eagle Lake Art Crawl takes place Saturday, September 12 around the scenic shores of Bald Eagle Lake. Local artists set up at lakeside locations, live demonstrations, and a chance to explore the Bald Eagle Lake community while supporting the arts. A wonderful way to spend a September Saturday discovering both local talent and a beautiful lake neighborhood just a few miles from White Bear Lake.
Learn morePitchfork Fall Festival, September 12 in Hudson
The Pitchfork Fall Festival returns to Hudson on Saturday, September 12 at 745 Ryan Drive. A family-friendly celebration of the season with food, music, local vendors, and the kind of community spirit that makes Hudson such a welcoming place on the Wisconsin side of the St. Croix. A perfect complement to the Hometown Music Fest happening the same day.
Learn moreThis past weekend the annual White Bear Lake Classic and Vintage Boat Show brought stunning antique wooden boats, vintage Chris-Crafts, and classic runabouts to Memorial Beach. Free to attend with a nautical market and the kind of lakeside charm that reminds everyone why White Bear Lake is such a special community. Already looking forward to next year.
Learn moreMahtomedi Area Farmers' Market
Every Saturday through late September, the Mahtomedi Area Farmers' Market sets up at Veterans Memorial Park from 8:00 AM to noon. Local produce, artisan baked goods, handmade crafts, and that unbeatable Saturday-morning community buzz. Sweet corn season is still going strong, and the early apples are starting to appear. It is the kind of place where you run into three neighbors before you finish your coffee.
Learn moreWhite Bear Lake Farmers Market
Every Friday through late October, 8:00 AM to noon on Clark Avenue between 2nd and 3rd Streets in downtown White Bear Lake. Over 50 vendors bring fresh produce, honey, maple syrup, jams, baked goods, and artisan products. The late-summer produce is spectacular right now with sweet corn, tomatoes, and the first of the fall squash starting to appear.
Learn moreHudson Farmers Markets, Two Weekly
Hudson has two weekly markets running through October: the Saturday Farmers Market on Carmichael Road (50+ vendors, 8:00 AM to noon) and the Thursday Farmers Market at Plaza 94 (7:30 AM to noon). Both are great spots for fresh produce, local meats, artisan breads, and baked goods. A perfect way to explore the Hudson community on a weekend morning.
Learn moreTaylors Falls Scenic Boat Tours, 120th Anniversary
Celebrating the 120th anniversary of the Taylors Falls Scenic Boat Tours, cruising through the dramatic St. Croix River gorge past towering basalt cliffs and the famous Dalles of the St. Croix. Anniversary cruises run through November 1 with special celebrations, live music, and historical photos. A must-do outing that showcases why the St. Croix River valley is so special, especially beautiful in early fall.
Learn moreFall Color Drives Along the St. Croix Bluffs
Late September through October is when the St. Croix River valley puts on its annual show. Bluff-top overlooks, winding river roads, and vibrant hardwood forests make for spectacular weekend drives. The stretch from Stillwater through Hudson to Prescott is particularly stunning. Pack a thermos of cider and take the slow route home.
Learn moreHudson Fall Harvest Fest & Craft Show, October 10
Saturday, October 10 brings the Hudson Fall Harvest Fest along Riverview Drive with autumn activities, seasonal food, hayrides, and a classic fall celebration on the Wisconsin side of the St. Croix. That same day, the Hudson Fall Craft & Vendor Show runs at Hudson Middle School from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM with local artisans, vendors, and handmade goods. A perfect one-two punch of fall fun in Hudson. Great for families exploring the area or longtime residents alike.
Learn moreLake Days on White Bear Lake
White Bear Lake's 2,400+ acres are still warm and welcoming through September. Tally's Dockside offers pontoon, kayak, and paddleboard rentals. The summer crowds have thinned, making these late-season lake days some of the most peaceful of the year. September on the lake is an underrated gem.
Fall Hiking at Willow River State Park
Just across the river in Hudson, Willow River State Park is a spectacular fall destination with sweeping views of the St. Croix Valley. The Willow River Falls and the scenic overlook trails are especially beautiful as the leaves begin to turn. About 2,800 acres of hiking, picnicking, and nature observation.
Learn moreThe golden transition
We have moved past the peak of summer and are easing into the golden transition to fall. The Pepper Festival, Community Theater, Vintage Boat Show, and Movies in the Park have all wrapped up for another year, and the first days of September are here. The farmers markets are still overflowing with sweet corn and tomatoes, and Pine Tree Apple Orchard is open for pick-your-own apples. This Saturday, September 12, the Taste of White Bear Lake brings the area's best restaurants to the orchard for the Rotary Club's annual food-and-drink fundraiser, and the Mahtomedi Cornfest, Hudson Hometown Music Fest, Pitchfork Fall Festival, and Bald Eagle Lake Art Crawl all land the same day. We now have a fantastic lineup of fall events ahead. The lake is still warm enough for swimming, the evenings are cooling off just enough for a light jacket, and the St. Croix bluffs are about to put on their annual color show. This is a beautiful time of year in the lake communities.
- Mahtomedi Farmers' Market (Saturdays through Sep)
- Pine Tree Apple Orchard (Open Now)
- White Bear Lake Farmers Market (Fridays)
- Carpenter Art Festival (Aug 29, Hudson)
- Taste of White Bear Lake (Sep 12)
- Bald Eagle Lake Art Crawl (Sep 12)
- Pitchfork Fall Festival (Sep 12, Hudson)
- Taylors Falls Boat Tours, 120th Anniversary (through Nov 1)
- Fall hiking at Willow River State Park
- Hiking Tamarack Nature Center & Snail Lake trails
Golden hues and hometown charm
September through November brings spectacular fall color to the St. Croix River valley. The Spirit of the St. Croix Art Festival draws 80+ artists to Hudson's Lakefront Park September 26-27, the Fall Fest in downtown White Bear Lake runs September 26-28 with scarecrow displays, shopping, and pumpkin painting. The Mahtomedi Cornfest, Taste of White Bear Lake, Hudson Hometown Music Fest, Pitchfork Fall Festival, and Bald Eagle Lake Art Crawl all land on September 12. Food Truck Friday is the same day in Mahtomedi. White Bear Township Day and Gloria's Food Shelf Shortest Marathon are both September 19. The Hudson Fall Harvest Fest and Craft & Vendor Show cap the season October 10, and the White Bear Lake Lions Club hosts its scenic Bear Water Run around the lake on October 17. Harvest markets pop up across the valley. And Pine Tree Apple Orchard is in full swing with apples, pumpkins, and corn mazes.
- Spirit of the St. Croix Art Festival (Sep 26-27)
- Fall Fest White Bear Lake (Sep 26-28)
- Mahtomedi Cornfest (Sep 12)
- Taste of White Bear Lake (Sep 12)
- Hudson Hometown Music Fest (Sep 12)
- Pitchfork Fall Festival (Sep 12, Hudson)
- Bald Eagle Lake Art Crawl (Sep 12)
- Food Truck Friday (Sep 12, Mahtomedi)
- White Bear Township Day (Sep 19)
- Gloria's Food Shelf Shortest Marathon (Sep 19)
- Hudson Fall Harvest Fest & Craft Show (Oct 10)
- Bear Water Run (Oct 17)
- Pine Tree Apple Orchard (Open through Oct)
- Run for the Apples (Oct)
- Scare in White Bear 5K (Oct)
- Harvest Festivals & Pumpkin Patches
Cozy community vibes
December through March, the lake communities embrace winter. The Festival of Trees at the White Bear Lake Armory kicks off the holidays, ice fishing villages pop up on White Bear Lake, the Hudson Winter Farmers Market at The Phipps Center keeps the community connected, and the Hudson Hot Air Affair in February brings a burst of color and hot air balloons to the winter sky. Cross-country skiing on the Gateway State Trail and day trips to Afton Alps round out the winter calendar.
- Festival of Trees (Nov-Dec)
- Ice Fishing Tournaments on White Bear Lake
- Hudson Hot Air Affair (Feb)
- Hudson Winter Market at Phipps Center
- Afton Alps Day Trips
- Cross-Country Skiing on Gateway Trail
The calendar never slows down.
These communities are full of life all year. We are easing out of summer and into the golden days of fall, but there is always something to look forward to across every season. Here is what locals anticipate throughout the year.
Spring Apr-May
- Hudson Farmers Market opens (May)
- White Bear Sailing School season begins
- Community plant sales & garden tours
- Spring cleanup & dock installation season
- Trails reopen at Afton State Park
- Mahtomedi Community Ed spring programs
Summer Jun-Aug
- Mahtomedi Farmers' Market (Saturdays through Sep)
- White Bear Lake Farmers Market (Fridays through Oct)
- Pine Tree Apple Orchard (late Aug through Oct)
- Carpenter Art Festival (Aug 29, Hudson)
- Mahtomedi Cornfest (Sep 12)
- Taste of White Bear Lake (Sep 12, Pine Tree Apple Orchard)
- Hudson Hometown Music Fest (Sep 12)
- Pitchfork Fall Festival (Sep 12, Hudson)
- Bald Eagle Lake Art Crawl (Sep 12)
- Food Truck Friday (Sep 12, Mahtomedi)
- White Bear Township Day (Sep 19)
- Gloria's Food Shelf Shortest Marathon (Sep 19, WBL)
- Concerts in the Park at Wedgewood Park (Mahtomedi)
- Taylors Falls Scenic Boat Tours, 120th anniversary (through Nov 1)
- White Bear Sailing School & Black Bear Yacht Racing
Fall Sep-Nov
- Spirit of the St. Croix Art Festival (Sep 26-27, Hudson)
- Fall Fest White Bear Lake (Sep 26-28)
- Mahtomedi Cornfest (Sep 12)
- Hudson Hometown Music Fest (Sep 12)
- Pitchfork Fall Festival (Sep 12, Hudson)
- Bald Eagle Lake Art Crawl (Sep 12)
- Food Truck Friday (Sep 12, Mahtomedi)
- White Bear Township Day (Sep 19)
- Hudson Fall Harvest Fest & Craft Show (Oct 10)
- Bear Water Run (Oct 17, White Bear Lake Lions Club)
- Peak fall color along the St. Croix bluffs
- Pine Tree Apple Orchard (pick-your-own through Oct)
- Run for the Apples (Oct, White Bear Lake)
- Scare in White Bear 5K (Oct, Memorial Beach)
- Harvest festivals & farmers markets
- Community pumpkin patches & corn mazes
Winter Dec-Mar
- Festival of Trees (White Bear Lake, Nov-Dec)
- Ice fishing tournaments on White Bear Lake
- Cross-country skiing on Gateway State Trail
- Hudson Hot Air Affair (Feb) - balloons & winter fun
- Hudson Winter Farmers Market at Phipps Center
- Holiday lights & downtown carriage rides
- Afton Alps day trips (30 min away)
Outdoor Recreation
Where the locals eat & gather.
A few of the restaurants and gathering spots I always recommend to clients moving into the area. These are places where you will run into neighbors and feel right at home. The list grows as new spots open up, so check back often. New additions this year include Stone & Oak Supper Club and Cooper's Kitchen & Spirits in White Bear Lake, El Pariente Mexican Grill and Red Luna Seasons in Mahtomedi, and Clubhouse golf simulator in Hudson.
A neighborhood favorite on 4th Street with a great burger menu, craft cocktails, and a warm, inviting atmosphere that captures the White Bear Lake community spirit.
A White Bear Lake institution known for hearty American classics, weekend brunch, and a lively atmosphere that keeps locals coming back. A go-to recommendation for anyone new to the area.
A polished-casual spot in Washington Square serving elevated comfort food, craft beer, and cocktails. Perfect for date night or catching up with friends in downtown White Bear Lake.
A White Bear Lake classic with a well-deserved reputation for craft beer, great food, and live music. The kind of neighborhood spot where locals gather and new faces are always welcome. One of the busiest patios in town during the summer.
A White Bear Lake institution serving breakfast and lunch with legendary baked goods, hearty comfort food, and that small-town diner warmth that keeps the coffee flowing and conversations going. The kind of place where everyone knows your name (or will by your second visit).
A charming bakery and cafe on 5th Street known for fresh-baked goods, creative sandwiches, and a cozy neighborhood vibe. The kind of spot where the morning pastry and coffee are always spot-on.
A White Bear Lake favorite known for delicious wood-fired pizzas, a warm neighborhood atmosphere, and rave reviews. The kind of spot where you can grab a fantastic dinner on 4th Street and feel right at home.
A beloved Italian spot on County Road E serving up classic dishes with a loyal local following. Great pasta, warm service, and the kind of old-school atmosphere that keeps families coming back for generations.
A beloved local bakery and cafe known for creative breakfast dishes, fresh-baked pastries, and a cozy atmosphere. The kind of weekend brunch spot that keeps you coming back.
A welcoming neighborhood cafe on County Road E with great coffee, fresh food, and a relaxed atmosphere. A favorite for morning coffee runs and casual weekday lunches.
Right in the heart of Mahtomedi on Mahtomedi Avenue. A laid-back local tavern with comfort food, cold drinks, and that small-town neighborhood feel that makes Mahtomedi special.
A cozy local coffee shop on Mahtomedi Avenue. The kind of spot where regulars are greeted by name and the espresso is always strong. Grab a latte before the farmers market or settle in with a book on a rainy afternoon.
Lakefront dining at its best. Sitting right on the water with views of White Bear Lake. Seasonal outdoor seating, casual American fare, and sunset drinks that make summer feel endless.
A Hudson gem on 2nd Street serving Cuban and Caribbean-inspired dishes in a vibrant, colorful setting. One of the most-loved restaurants in the St. Croix River valley. Worth the drive across the bridge.
A vibrant Hudson favorite on 2nd Street serving bold, flavor-packed dishes with a creative twist. Great cocktails, a welcoming atmosphere, and consistently one of the top-rated dining spots on the Wisconsin side.
Right on the scenic St. Croix River with a sprawling outdoor patio. Perfect for sunset views, cold drinks, and watching the boats go by. A must-visit when you are exploring the Hudson area.
A beloved Hudson staple serving up hearty smoked BBQ, cold drinks, and a laid-back roadhouse vibe. The kind of place where portions are generous and everyone feels like a regular.
A lively Hudson spot on 2nd Street with a well-deserved reputation for great food, a welcoming atmosphere, and one of the best patios in town. A popular gathering place for locals. Exactly the kind of place you want to discover when you are house-hunting on the Wisconsin side.
An upscale lakeside dining experience right on the shores of White Bear Lake. Known for Italian-inspired cuisine, an extensive wine list, and waterfront views that make every meal feel like an occasion.
A brand-new restaurant that opened this spring in the former MC's Taco & Tequila space. Already drawing crowds with its warm atmosphere, creative menu, and full spirits bar. A welcome addition to the White Bear area dining scene.
A White Bear Lake favorite on Highway 61 known for great American fare, a welcoming tavern atmosphere, and a loyal local following. The kind of place where the bartender knows your order and the Friday fish fry is always solid. A true neighborhood gathering spot.
A fantastic addition to Hudson's dining scene on 2nd Street. Creative American fare, craft cocktails, and a warm modern atmosphere. Great for date night or gathering with friends on the Wisconsin side.
A stylish newcomer on Locust Street in Hudson serving elevated American dishes with seasonal flair. Thoughtful cocktails and an intimate setting that has quickly made it a local favorite. A wonderful find for anyone exploring Hudson dining.
A brand-new chophouse-style supper club that opened in spring 2025 in the former car wash building on 4th Street. Owned by Stonehouse Catering with chef Adam Johnson. Already a hot spot for its creative menu, craft cocktails, and warm, modern supper club atmosphere. A welcome addition to White Bear Lake dining scene.
A vibrant Mahtomedi spot serving street tacos, micheladas, and authentic Mexican flavors. The kind of place where the salsa is fresh and the margaritas are strong. A welcome addition to the Mahtomedi dining scene on Wildwood Road.
A fantastic Vietnamese restaurant on County Road E with a loyal local following. Known for fresh pho, spring rolls, and creative Asian fusion dishes that keep people coming back. A great spot for something different on a weeknight.
A brand-new Mexican restaurant that took over the former Four Seasons spot on Mahtomedi Avenue. Serving tacos, burritos, fajitas, breakfast, and more with a warm, welcoming atmosphere. A fantastic new addition to the Mahtomedi dining scene.
A brand-new 24/7 golf simulator venue that opened April 2026 on Locust Street in downtown Hudson. Book a bay, grab a drink, and play some of the worlds greatest courses year-round. A fun new addition to Hudsons social scene, perfect for date night or a group outing.
It is not just a house.
It is a lifestyle.
When you are buying a home in these lake communities, you are not just getting four walls and a roof. You are getting access to a way of life that is hard to find anywhere else in the Twin Cities metro. Lake access, top-rated schools, tight-knit neighborhoods, and four distinct seasons of activities. Right now, in early September, we are in that sweet spot between summer and fall. Pine Tree Apple Orchard is open for pick-your-own apples, the farmers markets are overflowing with late-summer produce, the Taste of White Bear Lake, the Bald Eagle Lake Art Crawl, and the Mahtomedi Cornfest are all coming up September 12, and the St. Croix bluffs will soon be ablaze with color. The lake is still warm enough for one more swim. And it only gets better from here.
As a Mahtomedi resident myself, I do not just sell homes here. I live the lifestyle. I know which neighborhoods have the best lake access, which streets are quietest for families, and which pockets offer the best value. That is the kind of local insight you cannot get from a website.
Quick Community Facts
- ISD 832 Schools Top-rated district serving Mahtomedi with strong academics and community involvement.
- 2,400+ Acre Lake White Bear Lake offers premier boating, fishing, and water recreation all summer.
- 20 Minutes to St. Paul Lake community tranquility with easy access to downtown, airports, and metro amenities.
- Low Crime, Strong Community Safe neighborhoods where people look out for each other. The real Mahtomedi advantage.
Ready to make these communities home?
Whether you are exploring the area for the first time or you already know you want to live here, I would love to help you find the perfect place. Let us talk about what you are looking for.