Welcome to the Land of the Loon Festival in Virginia MN!

June 20 – 21, 2026 held in Virginia’s Olcott Park

Land of the Loon Ethnic Arts and Crafts Festival celebrates the culture and customs of the diverse people who settled in Northeastern Minnesota. The colorful traditions and flavors of the early immigrants and settlers are re-created by a melting pot of artisans, crafters, musicians, entertainers, and welcoming volunteers.

The two-day festival kicks off the third full weekend in June on Saturday morning with a fifty unit parade down Chestnut Street and Fifth Avenue in the historic heart of Virginia. Then the activities shift north to beautiful Olcott Park where the crowds sample the delicious ethnic foods, listen to the colorful music from countries around the world, browse among the hundreds of exquisite art and craft booths, and celebrate the weekend-long family entertainment hosted by Iron Range volunteers.

The third weekend of every June

Brings the festival–Land of the Loon.

Olcott Park is the bright place to be,

In Virginia where attendance is free.

Ethnic arts and rate crafts do abound

For the thousands who roam round and round. 

Over one hundred artists display

Unique treasures for home and for play.

Twenty booths cooking foods from all lands

Please the taste buds of varying brands.

Entertainment from dancing to songs

At the bandstand intrigues the great throngs.

And the children have activities too:

Cotton Candy, Ponies–it’s all true.

Fifty units parade down main street,

Kicking off this two-day, fun filled feat.

And on Sunday the crowd raises voice

For a service, ecumenical in choice.

Souvenirs and hospitality await

All participants who come through the gate.

Whether it’s rainy or sunny in June,

It’s a must–Virginia’s Land of the Loon!

-JDR