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Sinclair Lewis Days takes place July 15-19, 2026 

Sinclair Lewis Days is Sauk Centre’s signature summer celebration and a beloved community tradition that brings together residents, visitors, local businesses, organizations, and families for five days of small-town fun and hometown pride. Held in the hometown of Nobel Prize-winning author Sinclair Lewis, the festival features community parades, fireworks over Sauk Lake, the Kiddie Parade, Soapbox Derby races, a 5K and Fun Run, live music, street dances, tournaments, Crazy Days shopping, family activities, food vendors, and more. The 55th Annual celebration, happening July 15–19, 2026, will feature the theme “Once Upon a Main Street,” inviting the community to celebrate the stories, fairytales, literary classics, local history, and magical small-town moments that make Sauk Centre so special.

Step into the storybook magic of “Once Upon a Main Street” at Sinclair Lewis Days. Parade units are encouraged to bring the theme to life with literary-inspired floats, classic fairytales, nursery rhymes, storybook characters, historic moments from Sauk Centre, Sinclair Lewis references, Main Street nostalgia, community legends, and imaginative creations that celebrate the stories that shaped our town and the ones still being written today.

CLICK HERE FOR PARADE REGISTRATION

Join us for the Sinclair Lewis Days 5K & 1 Mile Fun Run/Walk on Saturday, July 18, 2026, at beautiful Sinclair Lewis Park in Sauk Centre. The chip-timed 5K begins at 8:00 AM, followed by the 1 Mile Fun Run/Walk at 9:00 AM, perfect for kids, families, and anyone who wants to be part of the fun without the longer distance. Late registration and packet pickup begin at 7:00 AM, with music from DJ Pete, awards following the race, and water and snacks provided for participants. Register by June 17 to be guaranteed a t-shirt. The event will take place rain or shine as part of the 55th Annual Sinclair Lewis Days celebration.
5K Registration

Craft Vendor Registration Forms - *Craft/Vendor Sale event is coordinated by the Sauk Centre History Museum. They will be the main contact for all questions. Registration forms available here as a courtesy to streamline information. Click here for forms