Garden City bursts with year-round excitement through its signature events. Winter starts with Monster Winterfest, a family-friendly celebration of snow, sports, and community, followed by Skijoring the Bear, a thrilling horse-and-skier race. Summer brings the Bear Lake Trifecta Marathon, where runners conquer three states in three days, and Raspberry Days, a beloved festival filled with parades, rodeos, fireworks, and sweet raspberry treats. From icy adventures to sunny celebrations, Bear Lake offers unforgettable fun in every season.
Bear Lake Monster Winterfest
Approximate Date: January 30
Location: Utah Bear Lake State Park Marina, 940 N Bear Lake Blvd, Garden City, UT 84028
The annual Bear Lake Monster Winterfest is the biggest winter celebration at Bear Lake, drawing visitors from across the region for a weekend packed with frosty fun and family-friendly adventure. Highlights include the daring Monster Plunge, the creative Monster Cardboard Boat Regatta, the flavorful Monster Chili Cook-Off, and the spirited Monster 5K Run/Walk. The festival also features winter sports activities, food trucks, live entertainment, and thousands of dollars in prizes. Beyond the fun, Winterfest supports a great cause—raising funds for The Family Place, a local nonprofit dedicated to strengthening families and communities. Whether you come to race, taste, plunge, or simply play in the snow, the Bear Lake Monster Winterfest promises a memorable winter getaway for all ages.
Skijoring the Bear
Approximate Date: February 13
Location: Heritage Park & Garden City Pond, 579 Buttercup Blvd, Garden City, UT 84028
Skijoring the Bear is a high-energy winter competition that brings the thrill of the Wild West to the snow. In this exciting sport, a skier is pulled by a horse and rider through a timed course filled with gates,
jumps, and rings—testing the speed, skill, and teamwork of every team. Participants compete in various divisions, from rookies to seasoned pros, with buckles and cash prizes awarded to the winners. Spectators are welcome to attend for free, making it a must-see event for anyone looking to experience the excitement, athleticism, and winter fun that define this unique Bear Lake tradition.
Bear Lake Trifecta Marathon
Approximate Date: June 5
Location: Water’s Edge Resort, Garden City
The Bear Lake Marathon & Half Marathon Trifecta is a one-of-a-kind running adventure that lets participants race through three states in three days—Wyoming, Idaho, and Utah—all within an hour of each other. Runners can choose to take on the full “Trifecta” challenge or mix and match distances, from full and half marathons to a 5K on the Utah course.
Each route showcases the breathtaking beauty of the Bear Lake Valley, from mountain vistas to the lake’s famous Caribbean-blue waters. With generous participant swag, hometown hospitality, and unforgettable scenery, this event draws runners from across the country for a weekend of fitness, fun, and spectacular views. Whether you’re chasing a personal best or just soaking up the scenery, the Bear Lake Trifecta is a bucket-list experience for every runner.
Bear Lake Raspberry Days
Approximate Date: August 7
Location: Heritage Park, 579 Buttercup Blvd, Garden City, UT 84028
The Bear Lake Raspberry Days Festival is a beloved three-day summer celebration that captures the sweet spirit of Bear Lake and its famous raspberries. The festival kicks off with the lively Raspberry Parade,
complete with floats, marching bands, and plenty of candy for the kids. Throughout the weekend, Heritage Park in Garden City transforms into a bustling fairground filled with craft booths, food vendors, live music, games, and family-friendly fun—from pie-eating contests and bingo to Zumba, pickleball, and golf scrambles. Evenings bring the excitement of the Raspberry Days Rodeo in nearby Laketown, followed by the dazzling Boat Light Parade and fireworks show over the sparkling waters of Bear Lake. With its small-town charm, delicious treats, and endless entertainment, Raspberry Days is the perfect summertime getaway for visitors of all ages.
Need a place to stay? Check out the Bear Lake Rustic Retreat!