Winona Minnesota's Mississippi River location means that many of the recreation opportunities have a water-based theme. On the water, around the water, or in the water. This area has an abundance of choices. The river valley offers a wide variety of fishing. Boating on the river can be aboard a motorized boat on the main channel or silently padding the maze of bays and channels called "Le Prairie Aux Aisle". Money made from western agriculture and transportation businesses built numerous mansions in the community. Many still remain, as do the contributions of these financial barons: the Winona Municipal Library presented by William Laird; Latsch and Prairie Island recreation areas contributed through the efforts of John Latsch; and the Lake Park band shell given by F.S. Bell. Winona has the distinction of having the first state normal school or teacher's training school west of the Mississippi River. The school is now part of Winona State University. Equally significant are the number of predominantly German and Polish immigrants and first generation Americans who settled in the community to work in the lumber mills. They brought their culture, language and customs to enrich the city's lifestyle. Each year, the seasons bring wonderful celebrations of Winona's special heritage, Mississippi River location, and lots of fun! Start the year with Winter Carnival in late January or early February on frozen lake Winona. Ice racing on Lake, a family ice fishing contest, and events typical of an early winter festival. Then the migrating bald eagles on the Mississippi River during Eagle Watch weekend in March. Music is also part of Winona's celebrations. A very active jazz group sponsors a Mardi Gras-style buffet with live music on the Saturday before Ash Wednesday and also hosts the Lake Winona Jazz Festival at Lake Park in July. This outdoor event features live jazz from local and regional groups. Established in 1915, the Winona Municipal Concert Band is the oldest continuously performing musical group west of the Mississippi. Winona' has two harbors on the Mississippi as well as many public boat docks. The large passenger carrying steamboats like the Delta, Mississippi and American Queen pay Winona regular visits each season at Levee Park. Lake Winona, a former channel of the river, contains 300 acres of water surrounded by a wonderful public park. The park includes an historic band shell, Winona's Veterans Memorial Park, a 1,000 plant rose garden, outdoor tennis courts, disc golf course, softball fields and picnic sites. Winona has recreation, natural beauty, historic architecture, and fine hospitality. This picturesque community is home to 5 museums, central to 5 state parks, 2 National Wildlife & Fish Refuges, and contains many municipal parks throughout. Boating, biking, bird watching, hiking, spectacular views from soaring river bluffs, camping, fishing.