10 Things to do in MN this winter

From: https://www.exploreminnesota.com/list/things-to-do-minnesota-this-winter

Minnesota is a winter haven for outdoor activities, theater, food and drink, seasonal festivals and more. Get out and win at winter with these unique #OnlyinMN activities.

EXPLORE THE TRAILS

Whether you lace up your boots for a winter walk or prefer exploring powdery paths on snowshoes, snowmobile, fat bike or cross-country skis, you'll find plenty of room to roam on Minnesota's thousands of miles of winter trails. More than two dozen Minnesota state parks offer groomed trails for skiing.

In the Minneapolis-St. Paul area, some popular cross-country spots are Elm Creek Park Reserve in Maple Grove, Hyland Lake Park Reserve in Bloomington and Theodore Wirth Regional Park in Minneapolis, which hosts the COOP FIS Cross-Country World Cup on Feb. 17-19. Snowshoe rentals are common in state and local park systems but call ahead to confirm availability before heading out.

Since nature centers are often surrounded by trails, they make a great starting point for snowshoeing, winter hiking, snowmobiling or cross-country skiing. Options include the River Bend Nature Center in Faribault (skiing and snowmobiling), Maplewood Nature Center (snowshoeing) and Hartley Nature Center in Duluth (skiing).

For the ultimate winter outing, check out a popular luminary event where trails are illuminated by cozy candlelight. These events are suitable for all ages and ability levels.

ATTEND A WINTER FESTIVAL

Minnesotans love to embrace winter weather, and nothing brings out our rosy-cheeked enthusiasm like a winter festival!

The Saint Paul Winter Carnival is the oldest winter festival in the United States. Since 1886, downtown St. Paul has been transformed into a winter wonderland with ice sculptures, parades and live music in Rice Park. These days it's also an integral component of The Great Northern festival, which unites some of the Twin Cities' premier winter events under one, snowy banner from late January through early February.

Head north to International Falls for Icebox Days, where “Only the Bold Run the Cold,” during this famous border town’s Freeze Yer Gizzard Blizzard Run. The festival includes other wacky events, such as frozen turkey bowling, smoosh races, frozen golf and boot hockey. Find incredible ice castles, ice mazes, ice bars and more at these popular events or see incredible snow sculptures at the World Snow Sculpting Championship in downtown Stillwater in January 2024.

If you're in northwest Minnesota, Polar Fest in Detroit Lakes features a polar plunge, fireworks and an illuminated ice castle. Head to the frozen waters of Lake Harriet to explore the popular Art Shanty Projects where artists create temporary structures and interactive, engaging art experiences and performances for four weekends in January. Look to the skies to see kites of all shapes, sizes and color at the Kites on Ice Kite Festival on Buffalo Lake in downtown Buffalo in February.

TRY A NEW WINTER SPORT

Did you know the U.S. Men’s 2015 curling team (who won the 2015 championship) is from Duluth? Minnesota has the most curling clubs in the nation. With more than 30 clubs across the state, you are bound to find one near you.

Dubbed one of “16 Unexpected Adventures You Need to Experience” by Expedia, dogsledding is a winter must-do. Ely-area dogsled outfitters offer a wide variety of options; there are day trips and overnight trips. Best of all, no experience is required. The Boundary Waters has over a million of acres of pristine, snowy environment to explore. There are also opportunities to see or try dogsledding along the North Shore of Lake Superior in Duluth or Two Harbors, Monticello, Hastings and Lake Minnetonka.

You probably have gone sledding in Minnesota, but have you tried cosmic snow tubing? At dusk, the cosmic lights light up the night at Wild Mountain in Taylors Falls, Mount Kato in Mankato, Powder Ridge in Kimball or Buck Hill in Burnsville for a thrilling winter night.

PLAN A COZY GETAWAY

If you’re looking for a cozy lodge to curl up by a fireplace or a hip boutique hotel with

great cocktails, you’re bound to find what’s right for you this winter. Warm up in the rooftop hot tub at Hotel Crosby in Stillwater, sip handcrafted cocktails from the on-site distillery at Cantilever just outside Voyageurs National Park, or dine in an igloo at Hotel Landing in Wayzata. Get your hygge on at Elliot Park Hotel’s Scandinavian inspired rooms just minutes from the excitement at U.S. Bank Stadium in downtown Minneapolis.

If cozy resorts and roaring fires are more your style, stay at Timberlake Lodge in Grand Rapids, Ruttger’s Birchmont Lodge in Bemidji or warm up from a day on the snow filled trails at the Lakes Inn in Pelican Rapids.

If you seek the charm of a bed and breakfast, head to Lanesboro — Minnesota’s “bed and breakfast capital” — or explore Wabasha, which has been compared to one of pop culture’s favorite small towns, Stars Hollow, thanks to picturesque properties like Turning Waters Bed and Breakfast. No matter where you stay, exploring a new destination and treating yourself to a relaxing getaway will break your cabin fever.

GO DOWNHILL SKIING OR SNOWBOARDING

Minnesota features some of the highest hills in the Midwest, and Minnesota downhill ski areas offer thrills for any level of skills. From Spirit Mountain in Duluth to Detroit Mountain Recreation Area in Detroit Lakes, there are opportunities across the state to cruise the runs. Find 18 of the most popular places to ski or snowboard in Minnesota.

SHOP 'TIL YOU DROP

During the holiday season, support local makers marts, European-inspired holiday markets or find festive decorations and celebrations at Mall of America. Stroll through charming downtowns, shop Minnesota made goods or shop without your coat at one of our many indoor malls. Best of all, there is no sales tax on clothing or shoes in Minnesota so go ahead and treat yourself this season.

TRY A NEW RESTAURANT

In winter, we love to indulge with our favorite comfort food and try new and unique dishes. Discover some of the best spots to eat in Minneapolis or St. Paul.

If you’re looking to expand your culinary skills at home, try a cooking class, support local shops that specialize in international foods, oils, spices or visit these local butchers for new and fresh ingredients.

VISIT A MUSEUM OR TAKE IN A SHOW

At the Science Museum of Minnesota's vibrant, open space in downtown St. Paul, explore four floors of engaging exhibits on everything from dinosaurs to the human body, the Mississippi River, race, questionable medical devices and Legos. More of a moviegoer? Kids love the Science Museum’s 90-foot, giant dome screen Omnitheater. While you’re downtown, be sure to stop by Rice Park to see the ice sculptures and live entertainment as part of the Saint Paul Winter Carnival.

Other museums worth a winter visit include the Minnesota Marine Art Museum in Winona, the SPAM Museum in Austin and the Walker Art Center in Minneapolis.

The Twin Cities is home to dozens of local theaters that produce local or host traveling productions. See what’s playing this winter and get your tickets.

WARM UP INSIDE

Waterslides, lazy rivers, and splash pads aren’t just for the summer months. Several Minnesota water parks can be found indoors, offering a tropical escape no matter the weather.

Your favorite outdoor activities don’t need to stop with a little snow. Find rock climbing, golf, playgrounds, farmers markets and more inside at these spots.

GET OUT ON THE ICE

Lace up your skates and glide onto the Riverbend Skate Path, one of the longest ice-skating trails in the United States. It connects to Doc's Harbor Inn’s public skating rink as well as several private rinks to provide 5 miles of open skating for all to enjoy in Warroad.

You can skate North America’s largest outdoor refrigerated rink in Roseville, or head to Maple Grove to carve your way across one of the country’s only refrigerated ice skating trails. If frozen lakes are more your style, head to Edina, Buffalo, or one of three lakes in Minneapolis - Lake of the Isles, Nokomis and Powderhorn. Lace up at the Infinity Loop on Lake Minnetonka’s Wayzata Bay during the Wayzata Chilly Open in February and you can even watch a movie on a jumbo screen as you skate.

Ice fishing is an iconic Minnesota winter activity. Visit Lake of the Woods, the "Walleye Capital of the World," to experience excellent ice fishing. This fishing destination features more than 50 resorts, sleeper services and hotels. Lodging options include a cozy cabin, condo, hotel, motel or a sleeper fish house on a frozen lake.

No matter what you do this winter, get out and explore Minnesota.

Where to Celebrate Halloween in the Twin Cities

Costume contests, bar crawls, pup parades, and more this week.

by Mpls.St.Paul Editors

Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular at the Minnesota Zoo

Walk a path lined with thousands of artistically carved, warmly glowing pumpkins, some of which reportedly took over 30 hours to carve. Tickets range from $20-24 for adults and $18-20 for kids and seniors. October 1 through November 7, Sundays-Thursdays at 7, 8, or 9 p.m., and Fridays and Saturdays at 10 p.m. Monday nights will be limited capacity, reserved for those with mobility challenges and sensory needs. mnzoo.org

All Hallow's Eve Day of Play + Night of Fright at Brother Justus

Brother Justus has something for the kids and the adults this year. Come early from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. to sip mulled warm whiskey cider with kid and dog-friendly outdoor activities like cornhole and pumpkin painting and a dog costume contest, not to mention BBQ from Flame Mobile Kitchen. At nightfall, the 21+ All Hallow's Eve live-DJ dance party and costume contest is on with some serious prizes (requiring proof of vaccination). Oct. 30, brotherjustus.com

Halloween Pup Parade at Bauhaus Brew Labs

Bauhaus Brew Labs is throwing the dogs a bone this year. Head on over to the brewery for a Halloween Pup Parade that includes free drinks, a costume contest for the doggos, and more. It costs $10 to enter, and all proceeds go to Grey Face Rescue & Retirement, a foster-based senior dog rescue. Oct. 28, facebook.com/events

Vampire Family Reunion at Pryes Brewing Co.

This free Halloween extravaganza is sinking its teeth into a vampire theme with live music outside the taproom starting at 4 p.m. The best-dressed vamps will win special prizes. Oct. 30, facebook.com/events

Minneapolis Halloween Half Marathon

What’s a scarier thought than running a half marathon? Head on over to Father Hennepin Park to jog off those calories before your weekend Halloween indulgences. October 30, minneapolishalloweenhalf.com

Halloween Trivia at Falling Knife Brewing Company

The NE brewery is hosting its first Halloween trivia bash with a costume contest to boot, starting at 7 p.m. on Wednesday. Oct. 27, facebook.com/events

Studio 54 at the Hewing

The vibe at the Hewing Hotel will be Studio 54. Beginning at 9 p.m. on Saturday the hotel is transforming the ballroom into the notorious nightclub with a “Liza Martini” cocktail, apps from the Tullibee kitchen, and a DJ. Oct. 30, hewinghotel.com

North Loop Halloween

North Loopers: The neighborhood association is putting on a Halloween party and a screening of Hocus Pocus to get in the neighborly witchy spirit. Prizes will be available for the best costumes (kids, adults, and pets included). Oct. 30, northloop.org

Minneapolis Costume Crawl

Creepy Crawlers: Head on over to Cowboy Jack’s for the Minneapolis Costume Crawl to show off your finest garb across the city. Karaoke, raffles, and yes, drinks to be expected. Upon arrival you will receive an itinerary with all venues and specials for the day. October 30, eventbrite.com

Drag Brunches

If Drag Brunch is more your speed, Flip Phone is offering some options. On Oct. 30 the theme is American Horror Story, while Oct. 31’s Halloween costume contest will also offer some Hocus Pocus hijinx at Union Rooftop. Oct. 30-31, flip-phone.ticketleap.com

Anoka Halloween Parade

The proclaimed "Halloween Capital of the World" is once again throwing its Grande Day Parade on the town's Main Street in-person from 1-4 p.m. on Oct. 30. Come through with a costume to see where it all started—that night, the Anoka County Historical Society is also putting on a ghost walking tour. Oct. 30, anokahalloween.com

Twin Cities Harvest Festival

Explore a 20-acre corn maze, a 6-acre sunflower field, a pumpkin patch and much more at this massive fest. Peruse the marketplace and don’t forget to take advantage of all the fall photo opps. Open through Oct. 31, twincitiesmaze.com

The Great Pumpkin Fest and ValleySCARE

For those looking for not-so-scary Halloween fun, The Great Pumpkin Fest is perfect for kids of all ages. Experience your favorite rides at Valley Fair, live entertainment, and plenty of fall activities with the Peanuts characters. For the adults brave enough, fear awaits at ValleySCARE's Halloween Haunt, promising "immersive mazes, spine-tingling scare zones, thrilling shows, and more." Great Pumpkin Fest: Saturday and Sundays, Oct. 2-31. Saturdays from 2-6 p.m., Sundays from 12-6 p.m. Halloween Haunt: Fridays & Saturdays, Oct. 2-31, valleyfair.com

Arboretum

What better place to take in Minnesota’s fall foliage? You’re likely to find your favorite apple variety at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum’s AppleHouse along with a cup of hot cider. Through Halloween, roam the grounds to see the Scarecrows in the Gardens with stunning creations from the arb staff and Bachman’s. Bonus: Swing by the Worlds of Pumpkin display that features hundreds of different pumpkin and squash varieties. Oh my gourd! AppleHouse open daily through Nov. 5, World of Pumpkins on display Oct. 3-31, arb.umn.edu

Gothess Halloween Dance Party

There's something about goth culture that is broodingly fitting for 2021. If dressing in all black is your thing, head to Mortimers for a 21+ dance party (requiring proof of vax). Oct. 29, facebook.com/events

Skalloween at Turf Club

The Turf Club is throwing back to the '90s with its Ska-lloween party (get it?), featuring Space Monkey Mafia, The Von Tramps, The Prizefighters, and Runaway Ricochet. The ska scene is alive, friends, and it's happening in St. Paul. Dress appropriately! (Proof of vaccination or a recent negative test required). Oct. 30, first-avenue.com

First Avenue's Halloween Party & Costume Contest

Boogie on down to the Mainroom for music, dance and a competitive costume contest with cash prizes up to $1,000. This year’s lineup features DJ Sophia Eris, Keezy, Rowsheen, Izzie P and more. Events at First Avenue’s venues require proof of COVID-19 vaccination or proof of a recent negative test for entry. Oct. 31, first-avenue.com

Source: https://mspmag.com/arts-and-culture/fall-events-around-the-twin-cities-2021/

10 Things to do in MN this winter

10 Things to do in MN this winter

Where to Celebrate Halloween in the Twin Cities

Where to Celebrate Halloween in the Twin Cities

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