Events
Much of our fundraising happens at the events that we participate in or hold throughout the year! These are great opportunities for us to meet and converse with the public, sell our merchandise, and raise money to continue our operation. We look forward to seeing you there!
Upcoming
Annual Events
The Brainerd Jaycee's Ice Fishing Extravaganza is an event that we have been happy to participate for many years. Annually, we send volunteers from our organization to act as bus greeters during this huge event! If you aren't joining in the fun of this big day in any other way, consider volunteering with Wild and Free!
Our annual garage sale event is one for the history books! Each year, we collect material donations from the community. We do not accept clothes, large appliances, or anything that is broken or missing pieces, but everything else is fair game. All donations are then compiled into a large garage sale to benefit our operation. You never know what you will find! Donations can be dropped at Garrison Animal Hospital at any time.
Donations Accepted:
Saturday, May 2nd from 12:00pm-6:00pm
Sunday, May 3rd from 10:00am-6:00pm
Monday, May 4th from 10:00am-2:00pm
Sale Dates:
Tuesday, May 5th from 3:00pm-7:00pm
Wednesday, May 6th - Friday, May 8th from 8:00am-7:00pm
Saturday, May 9th from 8:00am-2:00pm
Wild and Free is always present at Garrison Play Days! These fun summer days are filled with food, activities, and a parade! Come out to visit us at our booth to purchase raffle tickets, see our float in the parade, and celebrate our wonderful community! Our Raffle Grand Prize is $1000 donated by Baratto Brothers Construction!
July 17th - 19th, 2026
The Ripple River Gallery Fall Open House is one of the fan favorite events of the year! We are graciously invited along to the open house each year as a benefit for our operation, and we often release raptors in our care at the end of the event. The bird release is tentative, based on the bird's ability to fly.
Saturday, September 26th 2026
Ruttger's Oktoberfest is a wonderful event with music, food, and a craft fair! This fall event is a wonderful activity to get outdoors and enjoy the fall weather. Find our booth and come say hello!
October 16th-17th 2026
Give to the Max Day is a day in November in which Minnesotans come together to raise funds for non-profit organizations and schools across the state. We have been happy to participate in this event, and have received an outpouring of support. This day of giving is organized through GiveMN, our chosen portal for online donations. In 2025, $400 million dollars was raised and divided between 14,000 organizations, including Wild and Free. We'll see you next year!
November 19th, 2026