FAQ

Below is a list of frequently asked questions. If you have any questions about the event please look through these first before contacting us. If you still cannot find the answer to your question on this page or any other page of this site then please do go ahead and get a hold of us through the contact form to the right with any not-so frequently asked questions.

Submit a Question

Are COVID masks required?

COVID masks are optional

ADA Access?

We always have an ADA bathroom facility. Since it is an outdoor event, we can prepare for additional ADA access and have supplies at the ready. Please email squarelakefestival@gmail.com with questions and requests and we’ll discuss.

Can I buy tickets at the gate on the day of the event?

Tickets often sell out in advance, but if they don’t, we have tickets at the gate.

What time should I arrive?

The event “gate” opens at 5:00 PM, which is 60 minutes before programming is scheduled to begin. Please do not arrive prior to that as you will not be admitted.

Can I bring my lawn chair?

Yes, but they can only be used in the perimeter of the seating area in order to preserve sight lines for those seated on blankets.

Can I bring a small grill?

No – we do not allow any open flame or grilling at the property due to fire restrictions.

What if it rains?

This is a rain or shine event. Bands and film will continue as long as severe weather doesn’t threaten the safety of our performers or attendees. The Square Lake Festival does reserve the right to pause performances or (in the worst case scenario) change or alter the schedule due to inclement weather. Please prepare yourself accordingly. (expect the worst)

How do I submit my film for consideration?

We use Film Freeway exclusively for film submissions. Click our “Film Submissions” link to submit.

Will there be food available for purchase?

Yes – We always have a vendor who will be selling hot food at the festival. The menu will be available on our website a few days in advance of the festival. Other than that, the nearest place to get groceries or restaurant food is 6-7 miles away so please bring anything to eat or drink that you need. Attendees are allowed to bring a small cooler into the event.

Why isn't there bottled water for sale?

We are reducing waste to the best of our ability, and will not have bottled water for sale at the festival. We encourage you to bring reusable containers for water and fill them with the coolers we have on site, which are filled using a food grade hose by our volunteers. You are also welcome to bring a cooler with bottled water.

Is there a place for me to charge my cell phone or other electrical devise on-site?

No. Please bring your own solar charger.

Is there camping this year?

Yes we will have camping in 2024.

How do I get there?

Location Page

Directions

From the Twin Cities: take Hwy 36 east toward Stillwater. Turn left on Lake Elmo Avenue. Turn right on 75th Ave. Turn left on Manning Trail (about 5.5 miles) 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.

Most attendees will want to budget about one hour to travel from the Twin Cities.

Where are you in relation to Square Lake?

The festival is about a quarter mile from the entrance to Square Lake County park. It would take 15-20 minutes to walk to Square Lake Beach from here or 5 minutes to drive. Please note that we are NOT located in the county park, or on the shores of Square Lake.

What should I bring?

food (or cash buy food from vendor)
beverage (or cash to purchase onsite)
warm clothing
flash light
re-usable water drinking device
bug spray
a blanket to lay on
dancing shoes (or no shoes at all)
a smile on your face

Can I bring my well behaved dog?

We ask that you leave your dogs at home or in the care of others while at the festival. We believe that your dog is well behaved and that you will be diligent about any clean up associated with bringing your dog, but others might not, and we cannot be responsible for letting yours in while keeping theirs others out. Thanks for understanding our need for keeping it simple.

How can I help?

-Volunteer – almost everyone you see working at the festival is a volunteer and many shifts are available. Volunteer Page-Pick up after yourself (and others if you are so inclined). Please remember that the festival takes place on a private property and be considerate of the people who live here by being respectful of the property and cleaning up any trash you generate.

What if I bought a ticket but now can't go?

We are definitely sorry to hear that, unfortunately the tickets are nonrefundable. We would encourage you to bless someone else with tickets via social media or elsewhere!

Where should I park my bike?

Please keep bikes out of the area reserved for tents and seating in front of the stage. Other than that, you can park your bike wherever you can find room. Many people use the cedar fence along Partridge road. Please note that we are not responsible for lost or stolen bikes. While this has never happened to our knowledge, we encourage you to bring a good lock and use it to secure your bike.

When are quiet hours observed?

The festival is held on a private property in a residential area. Our neighbors are very generous to support us when we ask the township to issue our conditional use permit which allows for this event. Please help us keep the goodwill that we have with our neighbors by observing quiet hours after the festival programming ends at midnight.

What is the situation with parking?

You may park on the festival property for free; however, SPACE IS VERY LIMITED. Please carpool with your friends if you can, to ensure we don’t run out of room. Please do not park on the road unless directed to do so by one of our parking volunteers.

FAQ