Home Things To Do Steaks Are High: Brainerd Lakes Guide to Meat Raffles

Steaks Are High: Brainerd Lakes Guide to Meat Raffles

If you’re new to Minnesota or just passing through the Brainerd Lakes Area, you might hear whispers at the local watering hole: “You going to the meat raffle tonight?” And if you’re thinking what on earth is a meat raffle? you’re about to discover one of the Northland’s most beloved traditions.

Why Meat Raffles Are A Local Favorite

How did the meat raffle tradition become such a hit in the Brainerd Lakes Area? Simple. It’s the perfect blend of everything people love up here: small-town charm, great local food, lively taverns, and strong community ties. With a healthy mix of year-round residents, cabin owners, and seasonal visitors, meat raffles in our area feel like a welcoming party, a beloved pastime, and a fundraiser all rolled into one.

Many of the meats raffled off are sourced from area butcher shops, making it a great way to support local businesses while having a blast. Whether you’re at a roadside bar, lakeside tavern, or a cozy American Legion hall, there’s a good chance a meat raffle is happening sometime this week. And if luck is on your side, you might even earn the coveted title of Meat Hog, a name given to someone who wins more than once in a single night. It’s a playful honor that comes with some laughs and maybe a few light-hearted comments from the crowd. As one local put it, “I came for a drink and left with enough brats to host a family reunion. Best night ever!”

So, where can you get in on the meat raffle action?

The Brainerd Lakes Area is full of local bars, restaurants, and legions that proudly carry on the meat raffle tradition. While days and times often shift with the seasons, these community favorites are known for hosting raffles throughout the year. If you are ready to join the fun, check out the list below. For more details, visit the establishment’s website or check out Explore Brainerd Lakes Events.

Baxter

Poncho and Lefty’s – Mondays at 6 PM

Brainerd / Merrifield

B-Merri at the Woods – Thursdays at 6 PM, Saturdays at 5 PM

Brainerd American Legion – Fridays at 5:30 PM

Brainerd Eagles Club – Second Friday Every Month at 6 PM

Dunmire’s on the Lake – Thursdays at 6 PM

Breezy Point

The North Star – Thursdays at 6 PM

Crosslake / Fifty Lakes

14 Lakes Pub & Brewery – Sundays at 2:30 PM

Crosslake-Fifty Lakes American Legion – Fridays at 6:30 PM

Fifty Lakes Bar & Bottle Shop – Thursdays at 4 PM

Moonlite Bay – Wednesdays at 4 PM

East Gull Lake

Ernie’s on Gull – Thursdays at 6 PM

Jenkins

Snarky Loon Brewing Co – Sundays at 3 PM

Mission

Mission Tavern – Tuesday’s at 5:30PM and Sundays at 3 PM

Nisswa

The Quarterdeck Grill – Thursdays at 6 PM

Pequot Lakes

Pequot Lakes American Legion – Tuesday’s at 5:30 PM

Lucky’s Tavern – Wednesdays & Thursdays at 6 PM

*This list covers some of the local favorites, but it’s by no means exhaustive. There may be even more meat raffles popping up around the area! So keep your eyes peeled, ask a local, and you just might stumble into your new favorite weekly tradition.

Before You Go: Check the Latest Meat Raffle Schedules

Meat raffle days and times are subject to change, and some events may be seasonal. While we do our best to keep this guide up to date, we recommend confirming details with the hosting establishment before heading out.

Looking for more opportunities to win big? Visit our Brainerd Lakes Area Events Calendar for upcoming meat raffles, bingo nights, live entertainment and other local happenings.