Just two years after the big fishing opener, the Brainerd lakes area will again be ground-zero for one of the most celebrated traditions in the state of Minnesota. Our Pequot Lakes Chamber is honored to host Governor Dayton again at the 2016 Governor's Deer Hunting Opener this Thursday evening at Breezy Point Resort.
I'm so proud of our team for landing this event. The very first Governor's Deer Opener was held at Cragun's in 2002, and we're bringing it home again.
This Thursday, the event kicks off with a free Outdoor Expo from 4-6:30 p.m. The expo will feature over 30 interactive business booths, an air rifle and archery range, ATV simulator, chef's mystery box cook-off, butchering demonstration, world record mounts, games, giveaways and much more.
If you plan to come, be sure to get there early! The first 200 visitors will receive a blaze and camo baseball cap courtesy of Mills Fleet Farm. And dress for the occasion. The traditional "Sea of Blaze Orange" photo will be taken at 5 p.m.. Can we set a record?
At 6:30 p.m. is the "Welcome to Camp" banquet, emceed by Whitetail (formerly Walleye) Dan Eigen. We couldn't celebrate deer hunting without venison, so this is the first time that the event will feature a gourmet venison dinner, prepared by Breezy Point Resort Chef Tom Johnson. The Great Lakes Area Performing Arts troupe will also perform their world premiere of "'Twas the Night Before Deer Camp." Only a few tickets remain at $35.
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Overall, this is a tremendous opportunity to showcase our area as Minnesota's ultimate outdoor destination. About two dozen media organizations will broadcast live from the events.
We invite everyone to join in the family fun. Go to www.deeropener.com for all the details.
Matt Kilian
President, Brainerd Lakes Chamber of Commerce
