White Bear Lake, Minnesota, boasts a thriving arts and culture scene that offers residents and visitors a variety of experiences year-round. From engaging art classes to lively festivals, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
White Bear Center for the Arts
At the heart of the community’s artistic endeavors is the White Bear Center for the Arts (WBCA). Established in 1968, WBCA is a non-profit community art center dedicated to enriching lives through art. The center offers a broad range of classes suitable for all ages and skill levels, including ceramics, fiber arts, painting, drawing, woodworking, writing, and dance. In addition to classes, WBCA hosts free gallery exhibitions featuring both emerging and established artists, providing a platform for diverse perspectives and community engagement. The center is located at 4971 Long Avenue and is open Monday through Thursday from 9:00 AM to 7:30 PM, and Friday through Saturday from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
Lakeshore Players Theatre
For those interested in the performing arts, the Lakeshore Players Theatre serves as the premier performing arts center for the northeast Twin Cities metro area. As one of the oldest continuously operating theaters in Minnesota, it offers a variety of performances throughout the year, showcasing local talent and providing entertainment for all ages.
Children’s Performing Arts
Located in the Hanifl Performing Arts Center, Children’s Performing Arts specializes in theater education and leadership for K-12 students. They offer workshops, classes, camps, and productions designed to inspire and educate young performers.
Annual Art Events
White Bear Lake hosts several annual events that celebrate the arts:
Marketfest
Marketfest is a summer festival held in downtown White Bear Lake on Thursdays from mid-June through the end of July. The festival features live music on two stages, a classic car show, a kid’s activity zone, and over 200 local vendors offering arts, crafts, merchandise, services, and foods. Each week has a unique theme, such as Avenue for the Arts, which celebrates the thriving art scene within White Bear Lake.
Bald Eagle Lake Art Crawl
The Bald Eagle Lake Art Crawl is an annual event that brings together local artists and the community. Hosted at various homes around Bald Eagle Lake, the art crawl features a wide range of artistic talent in outdoor settings. Attendees can explore diverse artwork, meet artists, and enjoy live music while taking in the beautiful lake views. The event is organized by Bald Eagle Lake Arts, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering creativity and community engagement through the arts.
Whether you’re an artist looking to hone your craft, a patron of the arts, or someone seeking cultural enrichment, White Bear Lake’s vibrant arts scene offers numerous opportunities to engage and connect with the community.