The turtle races have been a tradition in Nisswa since 1963! This is enjoyed by all ages. These races run from June thru Mid August, every Wednesday. Registration starts at 1PM with the races starting at 2PM. The fee to enter the race is $3.00 and the racers will be given a button with a number on it. This number will be used in all of the races, numbered and speciality. The official race track is behind the Nisswa Chamber of Commerce building.

The races begin with the heat races and numbers are called in groups of fifteen racers. The racers will enter the racing ring and will pick out a turtle. (You may bring your own turtle.) The turtles will be in buckets with water. When your race is done please return the bucket with the turtle in it to the center of the racing ring. Each winner of the each numbered race will receive a ribbon and will race once again in the championship race. This winner will then be the champion racer of the week and will also receive a neck ribbon with a medallion.

After the numbered races, the speciality races will be held. The following are the speciality races:

Resort Race: If you are staying at an area resort, motel or campground, you can race in this one.

Out of State Race: If you are not a Minnesota resident you can enter this race.

Grandparents Race: This is for a grandparent and a grandchild to race together.

Tiny Tots Race: This is a race for all of those under the age of 5

Locals Only Race: This is a race for local residents of the area who live in Nisswa or neighboring communities (Pequot Lakes, Brainerd, Baxter, Merrifield)

On the speciality races, we will race until we have an overall race winner. These winners will receive a neck ribbon with a medallion.

All winners are announced on KLKS Radio, 104.3FM. To prevent disease, please wash hands after handling the turtles. Restrooms are at the chamber building.