The Big Event

Online registration is closed. If you would still like to register for The Big Event, please call 715-543-2085.

Grab your flannel and bring your Northwoods spirit for North Lakeland Discovery Center's lumberjack-themed annual fundraiser "The Big Event!" Enjoy activities inspired by the logging traditions that shaped our region and bid on live and silent auction items and experiences.

Savor in fresh food from Rustic Roots Catering and enjoy lively entertainment by Bernie Thompson—all while supporting a great cause. Every dollar raised helps keep our work strong and growing, just like the forests and the communities that we love. We hope you can join for The Big Event celebrating environmental education, conservation, and community.

Want to make an even greater impact while attending the Big Event? Support our 2026 Fund-A-Need initiatives—special opportunities that directly strengthen our mission of connecting people to nature through education and conservation. This year, your generosity will help elevate both the future of environmental leadership and the dedicated people who make our work possible.

The North Lakeland Discovery Center Emerging Professionals Program is cultivating the next generation of conservation leaders—young professionals restoring shorelines, protecting woods and waters, managing invasive species, and inspiring environmental stewardship. Your support helps keep these vital conservation and education efforts thriving for the future of the Northwoods.

Invest in the people behind the mission. The Professional Growth Fund supports advanced trainings, certifications, conferences, and networking opportunities for our dedicated year-round staff team. Your contribution empowers conservation leaders to grow their expertise, strengthen community connections, and inspire deeper relationships with the natural world.

We hope you can join us!

The event begins at 4:30 PM. and will be held in the Lodge and on the grounds at the Discovery Center. You may register online at the link above or by contacting the Discovery Center at (715) 543-2085.  If you are registering for other guests, please be sure to include all guest names so we are able to create name tags of all attendees. Registration is preferred by June 3, 2026. 

Volunteer opportunities for the event are now available.  If you are interest in volunteering for this event, you may contact our Volunteer Coordinator, Emily, at 715-543-2085 or by email at emily@discoverycenter.net.