Experience the magic of the World Famous Fish House Parade
November 28th, 2025
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 vendors, and enjoy the parade at 1 PM 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!
photos courtesy of Mark Persons
ENTER A FLOAT INTO THE PARADE - IT IS FREE!
Judging Categories:
Best Fish House - Show off your shack! Whether it’s funny, festive, or just plain cool, this award goes to the most standout fish house on wheels.
Best Kids Float - Let the kids take the reins! To qualify, kids must be doing most of the interacting and making the magic happen.
Judge’s Choice - The judge’s favorite float of the parade! Anything goes, and creativity wins.
Fish house Parade - photo courtesy of MLEC
Cuyuna Lakes Santa -photo courtesy of Kelly Barrett
St Paul Vulcans -photo courtesy of Kelly Barrett
MLEC -photo courtesy of Kelly Barrett
Aitkin County Triad -photo courtesy of Kelly Barrett
American Peat Technology APT -photo courtesy of Kelly Barrett
Aitkin Fire Department -photo courtesy of Kelly Barrett
Future Farmers of America -photo courtesy of Kelly Barrett
Fish House Parade Trophies
Mille Lacs Trails & Aitkin Sno-Drifters Fire -photo courtesy of Aitkin Independent Age
Aitkin All Starz -photo courtesy of Kelly Barrett
Glory Baptist Church -photo courtesy of Kelly Barett
Aitkin Search and Rescue -photo courtesy of Kelly Barrett
Fish House 5k -photo courtesy of Aitkin Independent Age
Fish House Parade Judges -photo courtesy of Aitkin Independent Age
Northern Air Heating and Plumbing -photo courtesy of Aitkin Independent Age
2024 PARADE FLOAT WINNERS
Fantastic Fish House
(most creative fish house)
Rocked the Float
(most energetic performance. music encouraged)
Coolest Kids In Town
(best youth participation float)
What is it?
Bundle up and get ready for—the Aitkin Ice Hole Hop! This winter, we invite you to explore our charming local businesses, connect with neighbors, and embrace the festive spirit while collecting signatures from participating stores. Each signature brings you one step closer to winning amazing prizes!
How It Works:
Pick Up Your Hop Card: Start your journey at any participating business.
Visit Local Businesses: Stop by each location, say hi, and collect your signature.
Complete Your Card: Once you've filled your card with signatures, drop it off at any participating business and winners will be announced Monday 12/1 via phone & Social Media.
Why Participate?
Support Local: Every visit supports our beloved local businesses.
Great Prizes: Complete your card and you’ll be entered to win fantastic prizes donated by our generous local merchants.
Community Fun: Share laughter, make memories, and celebrate the heart of Aitkin.
In an effort to include more of our businesses in Aitkin and promote supporting local we introduced the Ice Hole Hop.
Did you love Santa?
Cuyuna Lakes Santa (yes, that is really him in the photos)
