In the heart of Stevens Point and its surrounding areas, a plethora of summer events await to captivate residents and visitors alike. From cultural celebrations and community festivals to thrilling competitions and outdoor adventures, this season promises excitement for everyone. Spanning from early June through late August, these gatherings include Pride festivities, Juneteenth commemorations, car shows, music concerts, fairs, and more. Each event showcases local talent, promotes inclusivity, and fosters community spirit, making it an ideal time to explore all that Stevens Point has to offer.
A Summer Bursting with Activity
During the golden days of summer, Stevens Point transforms into a hub of activity. The calendar kicks off with the Point Pride Crawl in mid-June, where downtown bars welcome revelers for an evening of celebration. Later in the month, Pfiffner Pioneer Park hosts the Juneteenth Celebration, offering family-friendly entertainment alongside offerings from Black-owned vendors. July brings the Riverfront Rendezvous Community Festival, featuring live performances and fireworks, while the Iola Car Show & Swap Meet delights automotive enthusiasts nearby. Amherst’s Portage County Fair adds rodeo-style fun to the mix, followed by the Pedal Point Rally, which supports stroke recovery initiatives through cycling tours. Meanwhile, downtown businesses shine during Discover Downtown, and adaptive activities take center stage at the Disability Pride Festival in Plover. Adventure seekers can join PaddleQuest on waterways near Stevens Point before rounding out the season with the grandeur of the 99th Annual Portage County Fair and soothing tunes at the Riverfront Jazz Festival.
Beyond these signature events, weekly happenings like the Levitt AMP Stevens Point series, Stevens Point City Band Concerts, and Farmers Market provide ongoing opportunities to enjoy music, food, and camaraderie throughout the warmer months.
Key Dates and Locations
As the sun rises higher in the sky, Stevens Point bursts forth with vibrant celebrations beginning in June. At Pfiffner Pioneer Park, the Juneteenth Celebration takes place on June 21, blending history with joyous festivities. Just prior, the Point Pride Crawl invites participants to celebrate diversity downtown on June 13. In early July, the three-day Riverfront Rendezvous Community Festival fills Pfiffner Pioneer Park once again with laughter, music, and pyrotechnics. Overlapping dates see Iola hosting one of the nation's premier car shows from July 10–12, attracting gearheads far and wide.
Amherst joins in the merriment later that month with its county fair, featuring tractor pulls and carnival rides from July 17–20. Back in Stevens Point, cyclists gather for the Pedal Point Rally on July 18–19, raising funds for stroke survivors while enjoying scenic routes around town. Retail therapy meets community bonding during the Discover Downtown event on July 19, highlighting local commerce. Looking ahead to August, Plover ushers in new traditions with the inaugural Disability Pride Festival on August 2, celebrating accessibility and inclusion. Water enthusiasts unite for PaddleQuest over the weekend of August 8–10, navigating challenges along Stevens Point waterways under the theme “Can You Dig It?” Finally, as summer wanes, the 99th Annual Portage County Fair wraps up festivities in Rosholt from August 29 to September 1, accompanied by the soulful sounds of jazz musicians performing riverside on August 30–31.
An Invitation to Experience
From someone who has had the pleasure of attending many of these events, it is clear how they strengthen bonds within communities. Whether you’re dancing under starlit skies at the Riverfront Rendezvous or learning about disability pride in Plover, each moment fosters connection and understanding. These gatherings remind us of our shared humanity and the importance of supporting one another. So, pack your schedule full this summer—there’s something magical waiting just around every corner in Stevens Point!
This past weekend in Williston, ND, was filled with meaningful events that celebrated strength, honored achievements, and remembered those who have served. The 11th Annual Strongman and Strongwoman Competition at the Raymond Center showcased incredible feats of power while introducing a classic car show to captivate attendees. Meanwhile, Williston High School's graduation ceremony brought together proud families and friends to celebrate the accomplishments of the Class of 2025. Concluding the weekend, a quiet moment at Riverview Cemetery offered reflection on the sacrifices made by fallen service members.
The weekend not only highlighted local talent and community spirit but also emphasized the importance of gratitude and remembrance. Through these diverse activities, residents came together to honor both personal milestones and national heritage.
A Show of Strength and Classic Elegance
Saturday's event at the Raymond Center featured an exhilarating display of physical prowess during the 11th Annual Strongman and Strongwoman Competition. Two determined women competed fiercely, leaving spectators in awe with their exceptional performances. Adding charm to the occasion, a classic car show provided a nostalgic touch for enthusiasts. This combination of modern athleticism and vintage automobiles created a unique atmosphere enjoyed by all.
The competition itself was more than just lifting weights; it symbolized perseverance and dedication. Each participant pushed beyond limits, demonstrating resilience and determination. The crowd cheered enthusiastically as they witnessed records being broken and new champions crowned. Moreover, the inclusion of the classic car show added another layer of excitement, attracting collectors and admirers alike. Visitors marveled at the craftsmanship and history behind each vehicle, making this event memorable for everyone involved. It truly embodied the spirit of celebration through strength and tradition.
Honoring Achievements and Remembering Sacrifices
Sunday marked a significant milestone when Williston High School held its graduation ceremony. The gymnasium buzzed with excitement as family and friends gathered to congratulate the graduating class. The air was filled with pride as students received their diplomas, marking years of hard work and commitment. Following this joyous occasion, Memorial Day brought solemnity as people paused to remember those who gave their lives in service.
The graduation ceremony was a testament to the collective effort and support from teachers, parents, and peers. As speeches echoed words of wisdom and encouragement, graduates were inspired to pursue their dreams confidently. Later, at Riverview Cemetery, individuals took time to reflect deeply on the meaning of sacrifice. Flowers adorned graves, and heartfelt tributes honored heroes whose bravery defined freedom today. These moments connected past, present, and future, reminding us of our shared values and responsibilities within the community.
This week, the Stearns History Museum is set to become a hub for fans of vintage transportation. The museum will host an event dedicated to showcasing vehicles from across the 20th century, inviting participants to bring a diverse array of automobiles. From motorcycles and campers to trucks and cars, any model crafted between 1900 and 1999 is welcome. Organizers emphasize that perfection isn't required; pride in ownership is the key criterion.
Registration for those wishing to display their prized possessions costs $10 and can be completed either online beforehand or at the venue on the day of the event. For spectators, admission is complimentary, granting them access not only to the exhibition but also to the museum itself. Beyond the visual spectacle of classic vehicles, guests can enjoy refreshments, entertainment, and interactive activities, making it a family-friendly outing.
The museum’s commitment to celebrating automotive history continues with this year’s exhibit following last year's successful theme centered around the 1980s. Such events serve as a reminder of the rich cultural heritage embedded in our mechanical past. They inspire community engagement and foster appreciation for the craftsmanship and innovation that defined each era, reminding us all of the enduring allure of these timeless machines.