A parade with people marching, holding flags including American flags, in front of a theater named Rialto with a marquee advertising shows. There are spectators lined up along the sidewalk watching the parade.

People in colorful costumes and hats participating in a parade, riding on a decorated float with a sign that reads 'CAN'T STOP THE FISHING'. Behind them are onlookers in casual attire and a storefront with a photography studio sign.

Red vintage fire truck with large speakers and American flags driving past a crowd outside Rialto theater during a parade.

You might be wondering, “What is the Fish House Parade?” It’s a unique celebration where locals and businesses creatively adorn their ice fishing shacks to compete for the title of best float in this whimsical parade.

The Aitkin Fish House Parade has been a community tradition in Aitkin, Minnesota since 1991:

How it started: The parade was created to celebrate the start of the holiday season and to welcome guests to the community.
What it features: The parade features creatively decorated ice fishing shacks competing for the title of best float.
How it's celebrated: The parade is a big part of the day, but there are also events for all ages, including crafts, bake sales, and more.

Join over 3,000 visitors from across the U.S. for a day filled with Minnesota spirit! Kick off with the Fishhouse 5K, bring the kids to meet Santa, explore the vintage snowmobile exhibit, shop from delightful local business/vendors, and enjoy the parade in downtown Aitkin.

Don’t forget to bundle up and dress warm!

Save the date, and check back for a complete schedule of the day’s exciting events as we get closer!

Parade is at 1PM

Experience the magic of the

World Famous Fish House Parade

> November 27th, 2026 <

SOME OF THE EVENTS HAPPENING

8AM-10AM Fish House 5K

8 am Day of Registration at Nortwoods Church
9 am Race Start New route this year
Pick up race packets at Pedals of Peace on 11/26 from 4-7pm or day of race

8 am-7 pm Ice Hole Hop

Participating Aitkin Businesses offering discounts and prizes

9AM-12PM Meet & Greet with Santa Clause

Winter Craft Market
Two Rivers Event Center

10AM-4PM Sip N’ Stroll - Downtown Aitkin Area

Block North, Locker Room, Riverside Pub, Moose Lodge, American Legion

9AM-3PM Until Soup is Gone FREE SOUP & COCOA/COFFEE

PETALS OF PEACE 209 Minnesota Ave N

10AM-3PM Mille Lacs Trails & Aitkin Sno-Drifters Vintage Snowmobile Show

3rd St between Minnesota Ave N and 1st Ave NE

10AM-4PM Jacques Art Center

121 2nd St NW
Hot cider and donuts

NOON-4PM Fish House Friday Bazaar-Sampaguita

204 Minnesota Ave N
Hot cocoa, Live DJ set from Big Shiv Prodcutions
Fish Family Portraits, stop in for handmade gifts by local artisans!

1PM-2PM 35th Annual World Famous Fish House parade

Historic route through downtown Aitkin
Float Prize Categories:
Fantastic Fish House-Most creative fish house
Rocked the Float-Most Energetic Float
Coolest Kids in Town Float-Best Youth Participation

2PM-Mega Meat Raffle

American Legion 86 20 1st Ave NE

After Parade Until Soup Is Gone Free Soup

Creamy Chicken Wild Rice and one other soup

The Landing 145 Southgate Dr