University of Okoboji Winter Games 2025 in Midwest

The University of Okoboji Winter Games is an annual festival that occurs every January across the Iowa Great Lakes Area in NW Iowa. A fun winter weekend promises a mix of outdoor adventure, competitive sports, and community fun. Drawing approximately 10,000 visitors annually from across the Midwest, the event is known for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse activities catering to all ages.

Activities to Experience

The Winter Games feature a variety of indoor and outdoor events designed to highlight the joys of winter. Among the crowd favorites are broomball, flag football, and a softball tournament—all played on ice. Attendees can also enjoy more relaxed activities, such as the Chili Cook-Off, the Chocolate Classic, and the thrilling Polar Plunge.

For those seeking unique experiences, the event includes bowling on ice, dog sled races, and the quirky Freeze Your Fanny Bike Ride. Spectacular highlights like the Burning of the Greens and a dazzling fireworks display offer memorable moments to cap off the winter festivities. Other activities include talent showcases like the Winter Follies, snowmobile races, and opportunities for ice climbing, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing.

Kite Festival

The Okoboji Winter Games Kite Festival, initiated by Steve Boote of Eagle Construction in 2019, has rapidly grown into one of the largest kite festivals in the country. This vibrant event showcases giant, colorful kites on the frozen waters of West Lake Okoboji. Spectators are encouraged to walk onto the ice to marvel at the kites up close or enjoy the stunning view from the Iowa Great Lakes. For the best vantage point, park at Arnolds Park Amusement Park and take a leisurely stroll through Preservation Plaza to the lakeshore.

Event Schedule

The 2025 Winter Games span four days, starting on Thursday, January 23, and concluding on Sunday, January 26. According to the organizers, the schedule is packed with back-to-back events throughout the day and into the evening. Nightlife options, such as pub crawls and gatherings at local bars, provide additional opportunities for fun and relaxation.

Admission and Accessibility

The Winter Games is largely free to attend, with some events and activities requiring a registration fee. Parking is typically available in the vicinity. For those traveling from outside the area, the nearby towns of Spirit Lake and Okoboji offer accommodations, dining options, and other amenities.

Location and Nearby Attractions

The festival takes place in the picturesque Iowa Great Lakes Area, which encompasses a series of glacial lakes in northwest Iowa. Visitors can explore the scenic surroundings, including nature trails and frozen lake vistas, between events. The area is a year-round destination known for its recreational activities and warm community spirit.

History and Legacy

The University of Okoboji Winter Games began in 1981 as a modest broomball tournament organized by local enthusiasts. Over the years, the event has grown into a beloved winter tradition. Now in its 45th year, the Winter Games continues to bring people together to celebrate the joys of winter while supporting the local community.