Celebrating Voyageurs National Park’s Birthday
Voyageurs Conservancy has been busy this summer celebrating the park’s 50th birthday with not one, but two birthday parties! Both festivities, from the Twin Cities to Rainy Lake, were filled with music, community, stories, and shared celebration among passionate park supporters from all over. The smiles say it all – we had a wonderful time, and look forward to the rest of this milestone year. A special thanks to our sponsors, the Utepils Brewing team, Voyageurs National Park staff, and all of our board members and volunteers for your help and dedication to make these special events successful.
Voyageurs National Park Birthday Bash at Utepils Brewing | May 29, 2025
Despite the hail and rain, the spirited crowd at our May 29 birthday celebration didn’t let the weather dampen their excitement for Voyageurs National Park! More than 400 park supporters turned out to Utepils Brewing in Minneapolis for the park’s golden birthday! From interactive passport stations to the live bluegrass from the Roe Family Singers, and birthday theme treats, every moment was filled with a reminder of our mission and community.
This Twin Cities-based celebration had an important purpose: to raise support for the next 50 years of protecting this special place. Thanks to your incredible support, we raised more than $25,000 at this event – an investment in the future of Voyageurs that will help protect breathtaking landscapes, restore habitats, and inspire next generations of park lovers.
Our team is deeply grateful for everyone who came out to celebrate, supported, or volunteered their time at this event. Your commitment fuels our mission and helps ensure the park’s legacy endures. As we look forward to the rest of the summer, we invite you to stay connected, get involved, and continue sharing the story of Minnesota’s National Park.
Voyageurs National Park Birthday Party on Rainy Lake | June 14, 2025
On June 14, under a sky mirrored by the calm waters of Rainy Lake, families, friends, and park enthusiasts gathered at the Rainy Lake Visitor Center together to celebrate 50 years of Voyageurs National Park. This special event was made possible through the close partnership between Voyageurs Conservancy and the National Park Service, with many rangers joining us to help lead activities and celebrate their park’s milestone.
In addition, we proudly welcomed partners from the Koochiching Museum, Rainy Lake Sport Fishing Club, and National Parks Conservation Association, all of whom contributed to the day's success through engaging displays and hands-on activities. Alongside ranger-led North Canoe rides, fishing off the pier, a solar-scope station, and crafts for the upcoming International Falls 4th of July Parade, these contributions created a festive and meaningful atmosphere. And of course, no birthday party is complete without cake!
The Rainy Lake Visitor Center’s birthday event was a testament to what makes Voyageurs so special: a community rooted in place-based storytelling, outdoor discovery, and shared stewardship. All the activities offered captured the spirit of 50 years protecting and celebrating the past and future of this remarkable Northern Minnesota treasure.
With both of our birthday parties behind us, the celebration continues – not only through more events, but through ongoing partnerships and collective efforts that preserve habitats, protect dark skies, and inspire future generations.
A heartfelt thank you to all of our 50th Anniversary partners for making this milestone so meaningful.
