The final full weekend in January each year brings endless fun to Okoboji! We look forward to welcoming you to Okoboji for the University of Okoboji Winter Games January 22-25, 2026! Kites. Broomball. Flag Football. Softball. Bags Tournament. Chili Cook-Off. Chocolate Classic. Polar Plunge. Fireworks. Burning of the Greens. AND MUCH, MUCH MORE!

The University of Okoboji Winter Games began in 1981 as a small broomball tournament on East Lake’s frozen waters at the Fish Hatchery in Spirit Lake. The tournament was a way for locals to escape the cabin fever of winter and celebrate all of the fun and unique activities you can experience in the Iowa Great Lakes Area. Each year the event has grown and now welcomes visitors from around the world with over 100 events to watch or participate in! The Iowa Great Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce is proud to work with their area members to put together this event filled with traditions and experiences for attendees of all ages.

Check out this video of 2021’s Winter Games. It’s a glimpse of the fun you’ll have this year!