Veterans Memorial Park, (formally City Park) and Band Shell, 20 East Stout Street (2.0 acres)

The first park in Rice Lake was the present Veterans Memorial Park (formally City Park), 20 East Stout Street, along the lake between Douglas and Stout Streets. The land was donated by Knapp-Stout in 1901 with the understanding that it had to be developed into a park within three years or it would revert to the owners.

A park board was organized in 1901 but the 3-year deadline was drawing close and the board had only $9 in its treasury. E. Knudson, president of the Park Association, began a fund-raising effort, which included a July 4th celebration in 1904 that raised $900. Another $400 was raised by ball games and donations.

The current band shell was built in 1986 and is the scene of many events, including Tuesday Music in the Park, Wedding Ceremonies, Dance Recitals and more during the summer months.

Veterans Memorial Park (formally City Park) is utilized as a park for picnicking, playing, and relaxing. Natural features include a rolling topography with access to Rice Lake and adjacent park land. The wooded area is directly accessible to neighboring residential areas and to lake related activities.

Amenities include picnic tables, shelter, ADA Compliant restrooms, lighted tennis courts, play structure, swings, spring animals and a boat dock.

A Veteran's War Memorial, Civil War monument and fountain are located on the site.

City Park Band Shell Regulations

ACTIVITY: Requested activity must be appropriate to the band shell's purpose. The band shell is not to be used as a picnic shelter. Any given activity may be subject to Park Board approval.

FEE: There will be no charge for band shell usage; however, users are responsible for policing the area upon completion of their activity. Assessments will be levied for any damage to facility.

SOUND LEVEL: While no decibel level is determined at the present time, the sound system must be adapted and controlled to provide moderate and satisfactory sounds to the immediate audience and surrounding area.

PARK CURFEW: 6:00 a.m. -10:00 p.m.

ADMISSION: No admission can be charged for any events.

TIME LIMIT: Three (3) hours per session unless special permission is granted. Requests for band shell use must be coordinated through the Parks, Recreation and Cemeteries Department. Application forms are available – contact 715-234-9235.