Stillwater isn’t just a riverside town—it’s a thriving canvas of art, music, festivals and creative gathering places. From time-honored festivals to tucked-away galleries, here’s a guide to the pulse of the arts and culture scene here.
Flagship Festivals & Events
Rivertown Fall Art Festival
Held the first weekend in October at Lowell Park along the scenic St. Croix River, this juried fine-arts festival brings together over 200 artisans from around the Midwest. From ceramics, painting and mixed media to jewelry and photography, all mediums are on display. Local food vendors, live music, and a beer & wine tent set the scene for a festive autumn weekend. It’s a longtime cornerstone of Stillwater’s arts calendar that draws more than 10,000 visitors.
Lumberjack Days
A summer tradition in July, Lumberjack Days celebrates Stillwater’s logging heritage with competitions, parades, live music, food trucks and family-friendly fun. It adds hearty local flavor and draws people outdoors, embracing both history and celebration.
World Snow Celebration
When winter descends, Stillwater transforms into a frosty art gallery. The World Snow Celebration features snow-sculpting competitions, ice carving, live music, and public art activations. It’s a reminder that creativity doesn’t hibernate—it evolves with the changing season.
Studios, Galleries & Public Art
Art-Making Spaces
Studios like The Art & Water Space on Main St offer classes, workshops, studio access, and gallery shows. Union Art Alley turns downtown’s alleyways into murals and open studios that make street art part of a walking tour.
Festival of Festivals: Take Me to the River
This unique event doesn’t stay in one spot. In early fall, Take Me to the River links galleries, artists’ studios, and fairs across the St. Croix Valley. Whether you’re looking for sculpture parks, studio tours or outdoor art fairs, it maps out a full weekend immersed in art and landscape.
Live Music & Performing Arts Moments
Stillwater’s live music scene often intersects with its festivals—catch performances during Rivertown or Lumberjack Days. Throughout summer, parks and Main Street host concerts, and seasonal performances like opera and theater take over outdoor spaces such as Lowell Park. Make sure to follow local venue schedules to catch a show that moves you.
Tips for Getting Involved
- Want to show your art? Many festivals, especially Rivertown, accept artist applications with juried review. Be sure to check deadlines.
- Volunteer roles—you’ll find many, from event setup to hospitality. It’s a great way to connect with the community.
- Plan for parking & traffic—festival weekends are busy, downtown fills up quickly. Alternate transportation (walking, trolleys where available) helps ease the stretch.
- Support local businesses—restaurants, shops and cafés around galleries or along festival routes enrich the whole experience.
From sculpted snow to fall art trails, Stillwater’s arts scene is a tapestry of collaboration, place and craft. Whether you’re a visitor or long-time resident, there’s always something new to hear, see, feel—and create.