Fergus Falls Over The River Festival Returns, Boosts Local Holiday Spirit

Fergus Falls will again rally around the Over The River Holiday Festival, the citys signature holiday celebration that centers downtown with arts and artisan markets, makers markets, live music and performances, a holiday parade, a tree lighting ceremony and a fireworks finale. The festival also features family activities including selfies with Santa, face painting, a bouncy castle, carriage rides and a light walk at Spies Riverfront Park. Visit Fergus Falls hosts the primary event page with the festival schedule, participating downtown businesses and information for volunteers and sponsors.

The festival plays an important role in kick starting the holiday economy through Small Business Saturday events and a window decor contest that encourages shoppers to visit local storefronts. For many downtown merchants and makers the concentrated foot traffic during the festival and related makers markets represents a seasonal lifeline. Schools, community groups and volunteers also benefit from opportunities to participate and to reach families across Otter Tail County.

At the same time the gathering raises public health and equity considerations that affect local residents. Large outdoor crowds bring increased risk of transmission of respiratory illnesses and create needs for visible hand hygiene stations, clear emergency access routes and adequate restroom facilities. Weather exposed late autumn or winter events require warming spaces and attention to cold related vulnerability among older adults and people experiencing homelessness. Accessibility for people who use mobility devices, equitable pricing for activities and transportation options from surrounding towns will determine who can fully take part in the celebration.

Organizers and municipal planners can reduce harms and expand benefits by coordinating with public health officials, emergency services and social service providers, and by ensuring the festival remains attainable for low income families. Volunteer and sponsorship information is available through the Visit Fergus Falls event page, which serves as the local hub for planning and business participation.

As the community prepares for holiday gatherings, the Over The River Festival remains a focal point of local culture and commerce in Fergus Falls, offering festive traditions while highlighting the need for thoughtful public health, access and equity measures that keep the whole community safe and included.