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 an incredible September: the Taste of White Bear Lake, the Mahtomedi Cornfest, and the Hudson Hometown Music Fest on the 12th, White Bear Township Day and Gloria's Food Shelf Shortest Marathon on the 19th, and then the Spirit of the St. Croix Art Festival, Fall Fest in downtown White Bear Lake, the Carpenter Nature Center Raptor Release, and the Mahtomedi Farmers' Market's final day all wrapped the weekend of September 26. Now October is here, and it might be the best month of the year in the lake communities. The St. Croix bluffs are at peak color right now, Pine Tree Apple Orchard is open with its corn maze and pumpkin patch, and the White Bear Lake and Hudson farmers markets are wrapping their seasons. October 10 was the big one and it has already wrapped: PunkinMania filled Veterans Memorial Park in Mahtomedi, the Hudson Fall Harvest Fest and Craft Show landed on Riverview Drive, the Carpenter Nature Center Apple Festival ran in Hastings, and the Trout Brook 10 Miler wound through Willow River State Park, after Nature Night at Wildwood Elementary kicked off the month on October 8. October 17 brought two more favorites that have already wrapped: Run for the Apples at Pine Tree Apple Orchard, and the Hilltop Pumpkin Party and Rotary Halloween Parade at Camp DayCroix. Still ahead: the fall colors train keeps rolling through Osceola through October 25, Witches Nights Out brings Halloween shopping magic to downtown Hudson October 22, the Apple Ford Trunk or Treat and the Trick or Treat Trail at the Hudson Library warm up the weekend October 23-24, Scare in White Bear and the downtown Halloween Candy Crawl light up White Bear Lake on October 24, Kellerman's throws its Halloween costume party October 31, and the Bald Eagle Half Marathon closes race season November 7 before Light Up Hudson and the Buena Vista light display kick off the holidays November 27. Here is what is happening right now and what to look forward to throughout the year.
October in the lake communities.
October is the golden month here, and the St. Croix bluffs are at peak color right now, with the fall colors train rolling through Osceola and fall colors cruises leaving from Hudson. The farmers markets have just a few Fridays and Saturdays left. The fall festival calendar has been stacked: Nature Night at Wildwood Elementary kicked off the month on October 8, and PunkinMania, the Trout Brook 10 Miler, the Hudson Fall Harvest Fest and Craft Show, and the Carpenter Nature Center Apple Festival all wrapped their October 10 weekend. Still ahead: the Hilltop Pumpkin Party and Rotary Halloween Parade at Camp DayCroix and Run for the Apples at Pine Tree Apple Orchard on October 17, Witches Nights Out in downtown Hudson on October 22, the Apple Ford Trunk or Treat and the Hudson Library Trick or Treat Trail on October 23-24, Scare in White Bear and the downtown Halloween Candy Crawl on October 24, Kellerman's Halloween Costume Party on October 31, the Bald Eagle Half Marathon on November 7, and Light Up Hudson with the Buena Vista light display on November 27. Here is what is happening right now across the lake communities.
Pine Tree Apple Orchard, Open for Fall
Pine Tree Apple Orchard in White Bear Lake is open for the 2026 season with pick-your-own apples, fresh apple cider donuts, hayrides, and a farm store stocked with local treats. The corn maze runs through October 25 and the pumpkin patch opens October 3, with the salesroom staying open through February. A beloved family tradition for generations of lake community families and the perfect way to welcome fall.
Learn moreCarpenter Nature Center Raptor Release, September 26
On Saturday, September 26, rehabilitated birds of prey returned to the wild at Carpenter Nature Center's Minnesota campus in Hastings, one of the St. Croix valley's most beloved wildlife traditions, set against the early fall colors along the river bluffs. Wrapped for 2026; it is already a first name on the calendar for next September.
Learn moreBear Water Run, Wrapped for 2026
The 25th annual Bear Water Run wrapped its 2026 edition on Saturday, September 12, starting from Ramsey County Beach on White Bear Lake. The scenic 10-mile and 20-mile courses took runners along the lakeshore with the community out to cheer, and it is already a first name on the calendar for next September. A wonderful White Bear Lake Lions Club tradition.
Learn moreSpirit of the St. Croix Art Festival, September 26-27
The St. Croix valley's signature late-September art weekend wrapped its 2026 edition at Lakefront Park in Hudson, WI: Saturday September 26 (10 AM to 5 PM) and Sunday September 27 (10 AM to 4 PM). 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 and wrapped for 2026; watch for it again next late September.
Learn moreFall Fest in Downtown White Bear Lake, September 26-28
White Bear Lake welcomed autumn with its weekend-long Fall Fest celebration. The Scarecrow Stroll ran September 26-28 with creative scarecrow displays all through downtown, Fall Friendzy Ladies Night Out brought shopping and dining specials on September 26, and September 28 closed it out at Railroad Park with Polka & Pumpkin Painting, free pumpkin painting for the kids, and live polka music. Wrapped for 2026, a cozy, community-focused favorite to circle for next fall.
Learn moreScare in White Bear, October 24
A Halloween 5K and kids' fun run along a torch-lit path on the White Bear Lake paved trail, with hundreds of tiki torches, glow sticks, and trick-or-treating on Memorial Beach. Saturday, October 24, at Memorial Beach Park. A family favorite that turns the lakefront into a spooky, glowing village for one wonderful night.
Learn moreDowntown White Bear Lake Halloween Candy Crawl, October 24
On Saturday, October 24, downtown White Bear Lake shops open their doors for a family-friendly Halloween Candy Crawl, a trick-or-treating stroll through the historic downtown just in time for the holiday. Pair it with the torch-lit Scare in White Bear 5K at Memorial Beach the same evening for a full day of Halloween fun by the lake.
Learn moreApple Ford WBL Trunk or Treat, October 23
A free, family-friendly Trunk or Treat returns to Apple Ford White Bear Lake on Friday, October 23 from 3:00 to 6:30 PM at 1493 County Road E East. Decorated trunks, candy for the kids, and a safe, welcoming way to get into the Halloween spirit a day before the big downtown festivities. A great warm-up for the weekend.
Learn moreTrick or Treat Trail at the Hudson Library, October 24
The Hudson Area Public Library hosts a free Trick or Treat Trail on Saturday, October 24 from 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM at 700 1st Street. A spook-tacular Halloween party with community partners, games, and treats that is plenty of fun for young kids (scary costumes discouraged). A gentle, family-friendly way to celebrate before the evening's bigger events.
Learn moreWitches Nights Out, October 22
Downtown Hudson gets a playful dose of Halloween magic on Thursday, October 22 for Witches Nights Out, a grown-up evening of themed shopping, dining, and fun along 2nd Street put on by the Hudson Area Chamber. Local shops and restaurants join in the witchy spirit, making it one of the most spirited evenings on the Hudson fall calendar. Costumes encouraged, good company guaranteed.
Learn moreKellerman's Halloween Costume Party, October 31
Kellerman's Event Center on 4th Street in White Bear Lake throws its 15th annual Halloween Costume Party on Saturday, October 31, with doors at 7:30 PM and music from 8 to 11 PM. Live music, a costume contest, and a full Halloween celebration make it the way many locals cap off the holiday. A fun adults-only way to close out October in the lake communities.
Learn moreMahtomedi Stop Food Waste Challenge, All October
The city of Mahtomedi is running a Stop Food Waste Challenge through October 2026, a month-long community program encouraging residents to cut down on wasted food with practical tips, recipes, and local resources. It is a nice, neighborly way the city brings the community together around sustainability, and a good conversation starter for anyone exploring what life in Mahtomedi is like. Check the city's news page for challenges, resources, and the companion fall recycling events.
Learn moreBald Eagle Half Marathon, November 7
A certified 13.1-mile half marathon (plus 11K and 5K options) on gently rolling roads around Bald Eagle Lake, starting at 8:00 AM on Saturday, November 7 in White Bear Township. Post-race pancake breakfast, custom molded finisher medals, and free professional photography. A great fall race with a small-town feel and a pancake breakfast worth the trip.
Learn moreRun for the Apples, October 17 (Wrapped)
White Bear Rotary's Run for the Apples wrapped its 2026 edition on Saturday, October 17 at 9:00 AM, starting from Jacobson's Pine Tree Apple Orchard on Apple Orchard Road. A scenic 5-mile trail run plus a kids' run wound through the orchard and countryside, with the orchard's famous apples, cider donuts, and fall treats waiting at the finish. One of the friendliest races on the fall calendar, and already a first name on the calendar for next October.
Learn moreHilltop Pumpkin Party & 73rd Annual Rotary Halloween Parade, Wrapped
Hudson's beloved family Halloween kickoff wrapped its 2026 edition at Camp DayCroix on Saturday, October 17 from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM. The 73rd annual Rotary Halloween Parade, a costume contest, wagon rides, pumpkin decorating, and a petting zoo made it a free, festive afternoon on the Wisconsin side of the St. Croix. A wonderful way to welcome the Halloween season with little ones, and a first name on the calendar for next year.
Learn moreThe annual White Bear Lake Classic and Vintage Boat Show wrapped its 2026 edition on Memorial Beach this past season, with stunning antique wooden boats, vintage Chris-Crafts, and classic runabouts on display. 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, Season Wrapped
The Mahtomedi Area Farmers' Market at Veterans Memorial Park closed out its 2026 season on Saturday, September 26, its final day of the year for sweet corn, early apples, artisan baked goods, and handmade crafts, plus that unbeatable Saturday-morning community buzz. It will return in spring 2027. If you still want that local-market feel, the White Bear Lake farmers market runs Fridays through October 30, and the Hudson Farmers Market on Carmichael keeps its Saturdays going through October 31.
Learn moreWhite Bear Lake Farmers Market, Fridays Through October
Every Friday, 8:00 AM to noon on Clark Avenue between 2nd and 3rd Streets in downtown White Bear Lake, with just a few market mornings left. The city of White Bear Lake's 2026 calendar lists market days through Friday, October 30, so the season is winding down: late tomatoes, apples, fall squash, honey, maple syrup, and artisan goods, with crisp mornings that make a warm cinnamon roll an essential stop.
Learn moreHudson Farmers Market on Carmichael
The Hudson Farmers Market on Carmichael Road runs every Saturday from 8:00 AM to noon, with the 2026 season wrapping up on October 31. More than 50 vendors bring fresh produce, local meats, artisan breads, and baked goods to the Faith Community Church lot at 777 Carmichael Road. With fall apples and winter squash taking center stage, it is a perfect way to explore the Hudson community on a weekend morning.
Learn moreTaylors Falls Scenic Boat Tours, Fall Cruises
Daily boat tours through the dramatic St. Croix River gorge, past towering basalt cliffs and the famous Dalles of the St. Croix, continue through late October, weather permitting. As the bluffs turn gold and crimson, a fall cruise is one of the best ways to see the river valley's color show from the water. An outing that reminds everyone why the St. Croix is so special.
Learn moreOsceola & St. Croix Valley Fall Colors Train, Through October 25
The Minnesota Transportation Museum's beloved Fall Colors Train rolls through the St. Croix River Valley on Saturdays and Sundays through October 25, boarding at the historic Osceola depot. A roughly 90-minute round trip through peak color along the river, with vintage railcars and unbeatable bluff views. One of the most charming ways to see the valley's autumn show.
Learn moreSt. Croix River Cruises Fall Colors Cruises, October
St. Croix River Cruises in Hudson runs special fall colors cruises through October, taking passengers out on the river just as the bluffs reach peak color. A relaxing way to see the valley from the water, with the golden light bouncing off the St. Croix. Perfect for a crisp weekend afternoon.
Learn moreFall Color Drives Along the St. Croix Bluffs
The St. Croix River valley is right at its peak color right now. Minnesota DNR forecasts put the Twin Cities and east metro at peak foliage in mid-October, so this is the week for bluff-top overlooks and winding river roads. The stretch from Stillwater through Hudson to Prescott is particularly stunning in the golden late-afternoon light. Pack a thermos of cider and take the slow route home.
Learn moreHudson Fall Harvest Fest & Craft Show, October 10
Saturday, October 10 brought the Hudson Fall Harvest Fest along Riverview Drive, the Camp St. Croix edition of the celebration running 2:00 to 7:00 PM with autumn activities, seasonal food, a giant swing and climbing wall, and a classic fall afternoon on the Wisconsin side of the St. Croix. That same day, the Hudson Fall Craft & Vendor Show ran at Hudson High School from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM with local artisans, vendors, handmade goods, a food truck, and kettle corn. Wrapped for 2026; a perfect one-two punch of fall fun in Hudson for families exploring the area or longtime residents alike.
Learn moreCarpenter Nature Center Apple Festival, October 10-11
Carpenter Nature Center's free Apple Festival wrapped its 2026 weekend on Saturday and Sunday, October 10-11, from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM at its Minnesota campus in Hastings. Pick-your-own apples, hayrides, cider-making demonstrations, live music, live animal programs, and children's activities, held rain or shine. A perfect St. Croix river valley fall day out, and already a first name on the calendar for next October.
Learn morePunkinMania in Mahtomedi, October 10
Mahtomedi's beloved community pumpkin festival returned to Veterans Memorial Park on Saturday, October 10 from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, sponsored by the Wildwood Lions Club and Kramer-Berg American Legion Post 507. Pumpkins for sale, games and pumpkin crafts, a petting zoo, food and refreshments, and fire trucks on display. Admission was free, the kids absolutely loved it, and it is one of the warmest, most welcoming mornings on the Mahtomedi calendar. Wrapped for 2026.
Learn moreTrout Brook 10 Miler, October 10
For trail runners, the Trout Brook 10 Miler returned to Willow River State Park on Saturday, October 10 at 8:00 AM. Ten miles of rolling single-track through the park, past the Willow River falls and into the peak of fall color, put on by the St. Croix Running Company. Wrapped for 2026; non-runners still get a gorgeous hike out of the park, so bring the family and find a spot along the trail to cheer next year's runners home.
Learn moreLight Up Hudson, Friday November 27
Downtown Hudson becomes a holiday destination on Friday, November 27, when Light Up Hudson flips the switch on the town's holiday lights at Lakefront Park. The Hudson Christmas Tour of Homes and the Have a Hudson Holiday celebration follow, with festive shopping along 2nd Street and seasonal events through December. A wonderful preview if you are dreaming of a Hudson home before the holidays.
Learn moreBuena Vista: A Stroll in the Park, November 27 - February 15
Hudson's winter wonderland returns to Lakefront Park from Friday, November 27 through February 15, 2027. Buena Vista is a winter-long walk-through display of thousands of lights along the frozen St. Croix River, a truly magical evening outing for all ages that pairs perfectly with Light Up Hudson the same night.
Learn moreLocal Author Spotlight at Chapter2 Books
Every Sunday from 1:00 to 3:00 PM, Chapter2 Books in downtown Hudson hosts a Local Author Spotlight, a cozy weekly chance to meet area writers, hear live readings, and browse one of the St. Croix Valley's favorite independent bookstores. A lovely low-key Sunday tradition and a great way to feel the pulse of this community.
Hudson Tap Weekly: Trivia, Bingo & Pinball
In the heart of downtown Hudson, Hudson Tap keeps the week lively with Wednesday Trivia Night from 6:00 to 8:00 PM, Thursday Bingo from 5:30 to 8:00 PM, and a Tuesday pinball league across five machines. A cozy, welcoming spot to meet neighbors, cheer on the game, or settle in for a low-key weeknight. One of those local gems that makes Hudson feel like home.
Learn moreNature Night at Wildwood Elementary, October 8
Mahtomedi Public Schools hosted Nature Night on Thursday, October 8, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at Wildwood Elementary. A free, hands-on fall STEM and exploration evening for kids ages 2 through Grade 2, with activities that got little ones excited about the outdoors and the changing season. Wrapped for 2026; a lovely, low-key way for young families to meet the community, and one to circle for next fall.
Learn moreFall Fishing & Paddling on White Bear Lake
As the water cools, the fishing heats up. Walleye angling improves through the fall on White Bear Lake, and these early fall days are ideal for kayaking, canoeing, and shore casting with the summer crowds gone. Lake accesses stay open for boating and fishing through autumn, and the Conservation District keeps the seasonal fun rolling right up to freeze-up.
Learn moreLate-Season Lake Days on White Bear Lake
White Bear Lake's 2,400+ acres are still welcoming in mid-October. The summer crowds are gone, the water is calm, and the golden fall light over the lake is spectacular. Public access points stay open for paddling and shore fishing, and the last warm weekends are perfect for a sunset walk along the water. Shoulder-season lake days are an underrated gem.
Learn moreFall 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 September festivals have all wrapped for another year: the Taste of White Bear Lake, Mahtomedi Cornfest, Hudson Hometown Music Fest, Pitchfork Fall Festival, and Bald Eagle Lake Art Crawl on September 12, White Bear Township Day and Gloria's Food Shelf Shortest Marathon on September 19, and then the Spirit of the St. Croix Art Festival, Fall Fest in White Bear Lake, the Raptor Release, and the Mahtomedi Farmers' Market's final day on the weekend of September 26. Now October is here. Pine Tree Apple Orchard is open with its corn maze and pumpkin patch, and the White Bear Lake and Hudson farmers markets have just a few market days left (the White Bear Lake market wraps Friday, October 30, and Hudson runs its final Saturday on October 31). 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 (Wrapped, Sep 26)
- Pine Tree Apple Orchard (Open through late Oct)
- White Bear Lake Farmers Market (Fridays through Oct 30)
- Carpenter Art Festival (Wrapped, Aug 29)
- Taste of White Bear Lake (Wrapped, Sep 12)
- Bald Eagle Lake Art Crawl (Wrapped, Sep 12)
- Pitchfork Fall Festival (Wrapped, Sep 12)
- White Bear Township Day (Wrapped, Sep 19)
- Taylors Falls Boat Tours (daily through late October)
- 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, and right now, deep into October, the bluffs are putting on their color show. The September events have all wrapped for 2026, including the Spirit of the St. Croix Art Festival, Fall Fest in White Bear Lake, and the Raptor Release. October 10 was the big one: PunkinMania filled Veterans Memorial Park in Mahtomedi, the Hudson Fall Harvest Fest and Craft Show landed along Riverview Drive, the Carpenter Nature Center Apple Festival ran in Hastings, and the Trout Brook 10 Miler wound through Willow River State Park. The White Bear Lake Lions Club's 25th annual Bear Water Run wrapped on September 12, so race season continued with Run for the Apples at Pine Tree Apple Orchard and the Hilltop Pumpkin Party and Rotary Halloween Parade at Camp DayCroix on October 17, both wrapped for 2026. The fall colors train keeps rolling through Osceola on weekends through October 25, and St. Croix River Cruises runs fall colors cruises out of Hudson. Witches Nights Out brings Halloween shopping magic to downtown Hudson on October 22, the Apple Ford Trunk or Treat and the Hudson Library Trick or Treat Trail warm up the weekend October 23-24, Scare in White Bear at Memorial Beach and the downtown Halloween Candy Crawl land on October 24, and Kellerman's Costume Party closes out the holiday on October 31, with the Bald Eagle Half Marathon wrapping race season November 7. As November rolls in, downtown Hudson flips on its holiday lights for Light Up Hudson on November 27, with the Buena Vista light display and Christmas Tour of Homes following close behind. Pine Tree Apple Orchard is in full swing with apples, pumpkins, and its corn maze.
- Spirit of the St. Croix Art Festival (Wrapped, Sep 26-27)
- Fall Fest White Bear Lake (Wrapped, Sep 26-28)
- Mahtomedi Cornfest (Wrapped, Sep 12)
- Taste of White Bear Lake (Wrapped, Sep 12)
- Hudson Hometown Music Fest (Wrapped, Sep 12)
- Pitchfork Fall Festival (Wrapped, Sep 12)
- Bald Eagle Lake Art Crawl (Wrapped, Sep 12)
- Food Truck Friday (Wrapped, Sep 12)
- White Bear Township Day (Wrapped, Sep 19)
- Gloria's Food Shelf Shortest Marathon (Wrapped, Sep 19)
- Carpenter Nature Center Raptor Release (Wrapped, Sep 26)
- Nature Night at Wildwood Elementary (Wrapped, Oct 8)
- PunkinMania (Wrapped, Oct 10, Mahtomedi)
- Trout Brook 10 Miler (Wrapped, Oct 10, Willow River State Park)
- Hudson Fall Harvest Fest & Craft Show (Wrapped, Oct 10)
- Carpenter Nature Center Apple Festival (Wrapped, Oct 10-11)
- Pine Tree Apple Orchard (Open through late Oct)
- Run for the Apples (Wrapped, Oct 17, Pine Tree Apple Orchard)
- Hilltop Pumpkin Party & Rotary Halloween Parade (Wrapped, Oct 17, Hudson)
- Witches Nights Out (Oct 22, Hudson)
- Apple Ford WBL Trunk or Treat (Oct 23)
- Trick or Treat Trail at Hudson Library (Oct 24)
- Scare in White Bear (Oct 24)
- Downtown WBL Halloween Candy Crawl (Oct 24)
- Kellerman's Halloween Costume Party (Oct 31, WBL)
- Osceola & St. Croix Valley Fall Colors Train (Sat/Sun through Oct 25)
- St. Croix River Cruises Fall Colors Cruises (October, Hudson)
- Bald Eagle Half Marathon (Nov 7)
- Light Up Hudson, Buena Vista & Have a Hudson Holiday (Nov 27 onward)
- Harvest Festivals & Pumpkin Patches
Cozy community vibes
November through March, the lake communities embrace the holidays and winter. Downtown Hudson flips on its holiday lights with Light Up Hudson, which lands Friday, November 27, and the Christmas Tour of Homes, and the Festival of Trees at the White Bear Lake Armory kicks off the season. 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)
- Light Up Hudson & Have a Hudson Holiday (Nov-Dec)
- Hudson Christmas Tour of Homes (Nov)
- 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 (Wrapped, final day Sep 26)
- White Bear Lake Farmers Market (Fridays through Oct 30)
- Pine Tree Apple Orchard (late Aug through Oct)
- Carpenter Art Festival (Wrapped, Aug 29, Hudson)
- Mahtomedi Cornfest (Wrapped, Sep 12)
- Taste of White Bear Lake (Wrapped, Sep 12, Pine Tree Apple Orchard)
- Hudson Hometown Music Fest (Wrapped, Sep 12)
- Pitchfork Fall Festival (Wrapped, Sep 12, Hudson)
- Bald Eagle Lake Art Crawl (Wrapped, Sep 12)
- Food Truck Friday (Wrapped, Sep 12, Mahtomedi)
- White Bear Township Day (Wrapped, Sep 19)
- Gloria's Food Shelf Shortest Marathon (Wrapped, Sep 19, WBL)
- Concerts in the Park at Wedgewood Park (Mahtomedi)
- Taylors Falls Scenic Boat Tours (daily through late October)
- White Bear Sailing School & Black Bear Yacht Racing
Fall Sep-Nov
- Spirit of the St. Croix Art Festival (Wrapped, Sep 26-27, Hudson)
- Fall Fest White Bear Lake (Wrapped, Sep 26-28)
- Mahtomedi Cornfest (Wrapped, Sep 12)
- Hudson Hometown Music Fest (Wrapped, Sep 12)
- Pitchfork Fall Festival (Wrapped, Sep 12, Hudson)
- Bald Eagle Lake Art Crawl (Wrapped, Sep 12)
- Food Truck Friday (Wrapped, Sep 12, Mahtomedi)
- White Bear Township Day (Wrapped, Sep 19)
- Carpenter Nature Center Raptor Release (Wrapped, Sep 26, Hastings)
- Nature Night (Oct 8, Mahtomedi)
- PunkinMania (Oct 10, Mahtomedi)
- Trout Brook 10 Miler (Oct 10, Willow River State Park)
- Hudson Fall Harvest Fest & Craft Show (Oct 10)
- Carpenter Nature Center Apple Festival (Oct 10-11, Hastings)
- Bear Water Run (Wrapped, Sep 12, Ramsey County Beach)
- 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)
- Hilltop Pumpkin Party & Rotary Halloween Parade (Oct 17, Hudson)
- Apple Ford WBL Trunk or Treat (Oct 23)
- Trick or Treat Trail at Hudson Library (Oct 24)
- Scare in White Bear (Oct 24, Memorial Beach)
- Osceola & St. Croix Valley Fall Colors Train (Sat/Sun through Oct 25)
- Bald Eagle Half Marathon (Nov 7, White Bear Township)
- Light Up Hudson, Buena Vista & Have a Hudson Holiday (Nov 27 onward)
- Harvest festivals & farmers markets
- Community pumpkin patches & corn mazes
Winter Dec-Mar
- Festival of Trees (White Bear Lake, Nov-Dec)
- Light Up Hudson & Have a Hudson Holiday (Nov-Dec, Hudson)
- Hudson Christmas Tour of Homes (Nov, Hudson)
- 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, deep into October, we are in the golden heart of fall. The St. Croix bluffs are at peak color, Pine Tree Apple Orchard is open with its corn maze and pumpkin patch, the White Bear Lake and Hudson farmers markets each have just a few market days left, and the September festival wave has come and gone. The lake is still calm enough for one more paddle. 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.