Get your skis tuned, your snowshoes prepared, and fat tires ready for your bike, because it's almost time once again for one of Excelsior's favorite outdoor events. Big Island and Back! is a series of races around Lake Minnetonka, where residents can have a great time and raise money for good, local causes.

Whether you're still searching for Excelsior homes for sale or you're a resident looking to have some fun while supporting positive causes, the Big Island and Back! event is open to all. What could be better than some outdoor winter fun close to home? We have all the details on this year's event, in our guide to Big Island and Back! for 2019.

Nordic Ski Dash: Big Island and Back! Returns to Lake Minnetonka for Another Great Year

The Event: Big Island and Back!

Date/Time: Saturday, February 19, 2019 – Races Start at 11 a.m., 2 p.m., and 2:30 p.m.

Registration: Online Registration available until February 9, 2019

Enjoy 3 Exciting Races around Lake Minnetonka

What started as a one-race event on a course winding around Lake Minnetonka has since become an all-day opportunity for winter sports fun. Choose the race that includes your favorite winter sport, and get ready for one exciting day around the water.

• Ski Kite Race (11 a.m. Start) – Kick off the day with the ski kite race, and travel through the snow-covered course in style. This race starts quite a bit earlier than the others on the list, so it's a good idea to head to the course early to get your gear ready for the big event.

• Nordic and Snow Shoe Race (2 p.m. Start) – Turn back the clock and strap on your snowshoes to enjoy a trip around Lake Minnetonka. The Nordic and Snow Show Race, which starts in the afternoon, is one of the most popular events of the day. If you've been looking for an opportunity to break out those snowshoes, this is the perfect opportunity.

• Fat Tire Bike Race (2:30 p.m. Start) – Who says a bicycle can't handle the snow? With the right tires, anything is possible. Get your fat tires ready for a wintry ride around the lakeside course, and create some memories at the first edition of the Fat Tire Bike Race.

The Big Island and Back! After-Party at Excelsior Brewing Company

The fun doesn't stop when the day's races end. In fact, it's just getting started! When the races are complete, simply head over to Excelsior Brewing Company for an after-party filled with fabulous food, live music, and some of the area's most popular craft beers.

The after-party runs from 3 p.m. until after 10 p.m., with two great local bands providing entertainment throughout the proceedings. All participants in the races can enjoy free pizza, salads, and dessert during the after-party.

Have a Great Time and Support Local Causes at Big Island and Back!

Big Island and Back! is all about having fun, and supporting local non-profits in the process. All proceeds from the event will benefit the ICA Food Shelf program, which provides assistance to neighbors in need, and the Freshwater Society, which advocates for environmental causes. Want to offer your support, but not planning to race this year? You can also register as a non-participant in the races, while still donating to local causes.

Are you still searching for the right home near all of the beautiful outdoor attractions in the Excelsior area? We're here to help. Contact Homes by Joel to buy and sell homes throughout the Excelsior, MN area.