What is the Square Lake Film & Music Festival?
Everything you need to know about the Stillwater Annual Film & Music FestivalIn the summer of 2003, the very first Square Lake Festival occurred as a way to build community around the arts, and bring exposure to independent and underserved filmmakers/animators from the Twin Cities, greater Minnesota and Midwest region. Over the years, this event has contributed to a synergy between the well-known Minnesota music scene and lesser known film/animation community. We prescribe to the “less is more” philosophy, letting the natural environs of the festival grounds accentuate the artistry and audience experience. We like to think that the artists whose work has been featured at the event are partners with us toward our mission and goal, so here’s a list of all the musicians/bands that have graced our stages over the years. Here’s a variety of videos from the festival. This is a family event, so yes kids are always welcome and we curate a program that allows for multi-generational shared experiences.
![SQLK stage & screen](https://www.squarelakefestival.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/SQLK-stage-screen.png)
![SqLk Low & crowd](https://www.squarelakefestival.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/SqLk-Low-crowd.png)
![](https://www.squarelakefestival.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/thecurrentlogo.gif)
The Square Lake Film & Music Festival is “one of the state’s most intimate and best curated” festivals!
– 89.3 FM, The Current
LOCATION, CAMPING & FOOD
What you need to know about getting here and staying here.DRIVING DIRECTIONS
From the Twin Cities:
Take Hwy 36 east toward Stillwater.
Turn left on Manning Trail.
Proceed 6.9 miles on Manning Trail and turn right on Square Lake Trail.
(Look for festival signs or signs for Square Lake County Park)
Go 4.3 miles on Square Lake Trail and then turn right on Partridge Rd.
Go 1/2 a mile and the festival is on your left at the top of the hill.
Or, on the day of the event, call 651-204-0775 for a recording of driving directions to the festival.
Most attendees will want to budget about one hour to travel from the Twin Cities.
CAMPING
Enjoy a night under the stars!
A limited amount of free on-site camping is available on a first come, first served basis. We provide a comfortable camping area, basic facilities, and a beautiful setting. Bring your own tent and all necessary camping gear. No fires or grills. 130 campers maximum allowed. First come, first served.
Check here for info on FOOD at the Festival.
The Square Lake Festival does NOT sell beer/alcohol, but we encourage you (if you decide to bring a beverage) to support our sponsor Summit Brewing.