Each season, Lakewood families and friends visit our grounds and capture the beauty—whether it’s the first blush of tulips at the gates in spring, the shimmer of summer sunlight on our lake, the blaze of fall colors, or the quiet beauty of snow-dappled monuments. These everyday wonders inspire Lakewood’s Focus on the Seasons photo contest, now in its fourth year.
We’re excited to share the breathtaking results in our 2026 calendar, available now at no cost at our Welcome Center. The calendar features stunning photos taken by local photographers who see Lakewood not just as a place of remembrance, but as a place of life and beauty.
This year’s cover photo—a captivating image of a Great Blue Heron on the banks of Lakewood’s lake—was taken by multi-year winner Heather M. Swanson. A lifelong photography enthusiast and daughter of a small-town newspaper editor, Heather finds inspiration in Lakewood’s peaceful natural setting and deep historical roots.
“I’ve been frequenting Lakewood for years,” says Heather, who works for the Minnesota Historical Society. “Photography has taught me patience and awareness. It helps me see life more deeply. Being part of this calendar project is one of my proudest accomplishments.”
Second-year winner Kendra Rees, whose photo of vibrant tulips graces the April page, shares a similar sense of discovery. “I took that picture while attending Lakewood’s phone photography class taught by Eric Mueller,” says Kendra, who first visited Lakewood for a Memorial Day event. “The beauty here is stunning. I’m always moved by the ribbons on the Living Memory Tree, the pink marble of the Memorial Mausoleum, the light and shadow in the Garden Mausoleum. I even bought my ‘forever home’ in the Garden Maus.” Kendra’s enthusiasm is infectious. “The only thing I haven’t done yet is the trolley tour—it’s on my bucket list!”
Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or a casual visitor with a camera phone, every day Lakewood offers something beautiful to capture. Each season, Lakewood holds a Focus on the Seasons photo contest. Eight semi-finalists are selected, and then the community is invited to vote for their favorite. The top three photos from each season are featured in our calendar with name credit. Winners also receive two tickets to a Lakewood event.
We invite you to pick up your free copy, while supplies last, at the Welcome Center, Monday through Saturday from 8 AM – 4:30 PM.
Thanks to the talent and passion of our community, this calendar is a celebration of remembrance and renewal, beauty and belonging—a visual reflection of the seasons of life.
Watch for our next Focus on the Seasons photo contest, opening February 2026.
