Wells Fargo Winter Skate in St. Paul; photo by Robert Ferdinandt
Event highlights this week include:
Jan. 13, Mankato
Mankato Craft Beer Expo
Jan. 11-14, Minneapolis
Progressive Insurance Minneapolis Boat Show
Jan. 12-21, Waite Park
The Nine Who Dared: Courage at Little Rock
Jan. 11-14, Hackensack
Back to Hack Winter Festival
Jan. 11-20, Duluth
Calendar Girls
Southern Minnesota
Jan. 12, Welch
Criss Angel RAW - The Mindfreak Unplugged
Criss Angel - the biggest name in magic - is bringing his brand new, never-before-seen show Criss Angel RAW - The Mindfreak Unplugged to the Island Event Center stage. Treasure Island Resort & Casino. 800-222-7077
Jan. 13, Mankato
Mankato Craft Beer Expo
The 6th Annual Mankato Craft Beer Expo will showcase the offerings of craft breweries from Minnesota, as well as across the United States. Sample beers from over 40 craft breweries in a commemorative sampling glass, and enjoy educational seminars throughout the day. Verizon Wireless Center. 507-389-3000
Jan. 13, Fairmont
National Straightline Snowmobile Racing (NSSR) and Ice Kahana
NSSR is a professional snowmobile racing organization that specializes in races on 1000 foot shaved ice tracks. Fun runs are also available for riders wanting to test the speed of their machine. Classes, cash and trophy prizes are available for amateur trail riders and professionals. Chain of Lakes Yacht Club on the south shore of Hall Lake. 507-235-8585
Jan. 19, Winona
Adonis Puentes and the Voice of Cuba Orchestra
Adonis Puentes and the Voice of Cuba Orchestra open up the marvelous world of Cuban music through rich vocals and tight, multilayered arrangements including guitar, piano, bass, trumpet, and percussion. The band's lively Son and Salsa melodies will transport you from a Minnesota winter to the dance halls of Havana! Page Theatre Performance Center. 507-457-1715
Jan. 19-21, Fairmont
Southern Minnesota Pond Hockey Championship
Come watch and participate in competitive hockey for all ages. Also enjoy free outdoor skating on Jan. 19 on Sisseton Lake - skate rentals available. 507-235-8585
Jan. 26-28, Owatonna
Owatonna Winter Weekend Out
Owatonna Parks and Recreation offers a wide array of fun winter activities during their annual Winter Weekend Out including sledding, a Polar Plunge, sledding, Battleship in the pool, Rock on Ice bonfire and skating to the music, movie, ice bocce ball, and family ice fishing with prizes. West Hills/Morehouse Park/Lake Kohlmier. 507-444-4321
Minneapolis-St. Paul Area
Nov. 25 - Jan. 14, Minneapolis
Blithe Spirit
It’s summertime in Kent, and Charles Condomine is working on his latest novel, The Unseen. As part of his research he and his wife Ruth host a séance with an eccentric medium known as Madame Arcati and invite their friends to play along. But the evening takes a supernatural turn when Arcati conjures Charles’ deceased first wife, who doesn’t have plans to leave. Lighthearted and endearing, this otherworldly classic is sure to tickle your goosebumps. Guthrie Theater's McGuire Proscenium Stage. 612-377-2224
Dec. 23 - Jan. 21, St. Paul
The 1968 Exhibit
The social forces that swirled through the turbulent 1960s crested in 1968. It was a turning point for a generation coming of age with the Vietnam War, protests, assassinations, peace signs, love-ins and psychedelic rock. From the darkest hours to the incredible highs, see the year come alive in this mind-blowing exhibit. This popular exhibit returns to Minnesota after touring the nation! Minnesota History Center. 651-259-3000
Jan. 5 - Feb. 28, Stillwater
Ice Castles
Ice Castles is a winter wonderland where fairy tales are brought to life with twinkling lights, magnificent archways and towers, ice-carved tunnels, fountains and slides ready to be explored. At specific times, meet with the Enchanted Frozen Sisters and attend Fire Performances. Dates are weather-dependent -- please call ahead for specific days and times. Lowell Park in downtown Stillwater. 888-407-4054
Jan. 5 - March 1, St. Paul
Omnifest 2018
This popular giant screen tradition continues with the 2018 Omnitheater film festival at the Science Museum of Minnesota's William L. McKnight-3M Omnitheater. Included in this year's festival is Jane Goodall's Wild Chimpanzees, a Science Museum of Minnesota original production, along with Journey Into Amazing Caves, Wolves, The Magic of Flight, and Rocky Mountain Express. 651-221-9444
Jan. 11-14, Minneapolis
Progressive Insurance Minneapolis Boat Show
Check out the upper Midwest’s best selection of new boats and hundreds of booths showcasing the very latest in engines, electronics, fishing gear and accessories. Find your dream boat and everything that goes with it! Minneapolis Convention Center. 612-332-8330
Jan. 12-28, Anoka
Superior Donuts
Superior Donuts takes places in the historic Uptown neighborhood of Chicago, where Arthur Przybyszewski runs a donut shop that has been in his family for sixty years. Franco Wicks, a young African-American man, and Arthur's only employee, wants to modernize the shop while Arthur is more content to spend the day reminiscing about his Polish immigrant father. Lyric Arts Main Street Stage. 763-422-1838
Jan. 13, St. Paul
Big Head Todd and the Monsters
Don't miss this extremely popular act that has entertained us for more than 30 years! Palace Theatre. 651-502-2259
Jan. 13, St. Paul
MLK Saturday - A Day of Exploration, Music, Exhibits & Fun for Families
Take inspiration from the life of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and explore "The 1968 Exhibit" during this exhibit opening celebration. Create screen-printed activist posters; join in a spoken word activity; be of service by packing personal hygiene kits for the Dorothy Day Center; and enjoy performances by students at the Walker West Music Academy, a learning community rooted in the African American experience. Minnesota History Center. 651-259-3000
Jan. 13 - March 11, St. Paul
Bold North Flower Show
Visit the "Bold North" Flower Show at the historic Marjorie McNeely Conservatory, and enjoy the beautiful sights and floral scents. The purples, silvers and whites will be a floral celebration of the Bold North and the big game. Marjorie McNeely Conservatory at Como Zoo. 651-487-8201
Jan. 14, Minneapolis
Hope & Healing Cabaret
Join in celebrating Dr. King's life and legacy through theatrical and musical performances. Light refreshments and a cash bar will be available. Mill City Museum. 612-341-7555
Jan. 18-21, St. Paul
Sportsmen's Show
The 48th Annual Minnesota Sportsmen's Show brings you hundreds of resorts, lodges and campgrounds, special pricing on boats, campers and trailers, hunting and fishing seminars, lots of family fun activities -- whether you're planning a vacation, looking for a new boat or RV, or just want a fun day with the family, the Minnesota Sportsmen?s Show has you covered. St. Paul RiverCentre. 651-265-4800
Jan. 19-20, Minneapolis
Ben Folds
This performance adds the Orchestra's talent to Ben Folds' vocals and piano for an evening of quirky melodies, impromptu creation, and an epic love-fest between audience and musicians. Orchestra Hall. 612-371-5656
Jan. 19-20, St. Paul
Red Bull Crashed Ice
Check out 200 of the toughest, fastest ice cross downhill racers as they go head-to-head through a downhill course full of mind-and-body-bending jumps, turns and slides - all against the backdrop of the historic Cathedral of Saint Paul with over 115,000 spectators cheering them on! On Jan. 20, don't miss the Red Bull Crashed Ice Afterparty at the Palace Theatre with Paper Diamond, Shredders, and Mike 2600. 952-767-3464; 651-502-2259
Jan. 20 - Feb. 11 (Saturdays and Sundays), Minneapolis
Art Shanty Projects On-Ice Program
Art Shanty Projects' creative structures and unique performances for free on the frozen surface of Lake Harriet. Past shanty artists have elicited public interactions around such varied activities and inspirations as stress-relieving practices in a geodesic dome, curling competitions, lively debate forums and soap-box proclamations, kinesthetic pedal-powered polar bear puppet rides, a life-sized music box, a giant zoetrope, and an imaginative elevator ride. Artist-audience interactions are encouraged! Lake Harriet. 612-567-6844
Upcoming Twin Cities' concerts and performances:
Paw Patrol Live -- The Great Adventure at the Historic State Theatre in Minneapolis, Jan. 10
Criss Angel Raw - The Mindfreak Unplugged at Treasure Island Resort & Casino in Welch, Jan. 12
G. Love & Special Sauce at Mystic Lake Casino Hotel in Prior Lake, Jan. 12
PAW Patrol Live - The Great Pirate Adventure at the Historic State Theatre, Jan. 12-14
Minnesota Roller Girls at Roy Wilkins Auditorium at St. Paul RiverCentre, Jan. 13
The Killers at the Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul, Jan. 17
Breathe Carolina at the Skyway Theatre in Minneapolis, Jan. 19
Scotty McCreery at Mystic Lake Casino Hotel, Jan. 25
1964 - The Tribute at the Ames Center in Burnsville, Jan. 20
2 Cellos at the Target Center in Minneapolis, Jan. 25
Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood at the Historic State Theatre, Jan. 27
Defending the Caveman at Ames Center in Burnsville, Jan. 27
Superbowl Opening Night Ceremonies at the Xcel Energy Center, Jan. 29
Feherty Live at the Historic State Theatre, Feb. 1-2
Kevin Hart at the Target Center in Minneapolis, Feb. 2
The Night Before with Dave Matthews Band at the Xcel Energy Center, Feb. 3
Gwen Stefani at Club Nomadic in Minneapolis, Feb. 4
Postmodern Jukebox at the Historic State Theatre, Feb. 5
The Price is Right Live at Mystic Lake Casino Hotel, Feb. 9-11
The Book of Moron at the Ames Center, Feb. 10
Tickets available through Eventful or Ticketmaster
Central Minnesota
Jan. 12-21, Waite Park
The Nine Who Dared: Courage at Little Rock
In this uniquely interactive drama, audiences become citizens of 1957 Little Rock, Arkansas, to participate in a town hall meeting about one of the defining moments of the Civil Rights Movement. This thought-provoking theatre experience is based on the strength of character of the "Little Rock Nine." Helgeson Learning Lab Theatre. 320-258-2787
Jan. 13, Willmar
Gaelynn Lea Concert
Enjoy the sounds of classically trained violinist and songwriter Gaelynn Lea at The Barn Theatre in downtown Willmar! 320-235-9500
Jan. 14, St. Cloud
St. Cloud Wedding Expo
The St. Cloud Wedding Expo, central Minnesota's premier bridal show, features spectacular wedding products and services from over 90 vendors from across Minnesota. River's Edge Convention Center. 320-255-7272
Jan. 20, Menahga
Menahga Family Fishing Derby
The Family Fishing Derby offers prizes for two categories of fishing with 10 places in each category. The entry fee is also raffle ticket. Portable shelters are allowed to be pulled out by hand. The Menahga VFW will host a fish fry that evening. Spirit Lake. 218-564-4909
Jan. 20-28, Spicer
Spicer Winterfest
Enjoy two weekends of fun with ice fishing tournaments, fireworks, craft sales, Frozen 5K Fun Run, Winterfest Kids' Carnival, horse and buggy rides, hockey tournament, cross country skiing, medallion hunting, and the 14th annual Polar Plunge! 320-796-8066
Jan. 27, Little Falls
Sprout Growers & Makers Marketplace
The Sprout Growers & Makers Marketplace is an indoor, year-round market that combines the region's local food and original art with residents and tourists. In addition to quality produce and handmade goods, enjoy cooking demonstrations and the music of The Song of My People. 320-412-3081
Northwest Minnesota
Nov. 15 - Jan. 28, Bemidji
Fur Trade in Minnesota
Hundreds of years ago, Minnesota played a key role in the fur trade, which stretched across five continents. This traveling exhibit, rich with activities and objects, shows how plentiful fur bearers brought together native people, explorers and international trade. Visitors to the exhibit can lift a 45-pound Voyageur’s pack, learn how the fur trade shaped Ojibwe art and discover how beaver pelts could be transformed into sleek, stately hats that were all the rage among wealthy Europeans. Beltrami County Historical Society. 218-444-3376
Jan. 11-12, Detroit Lakes
Detroit Lakes Ice Harvest
The 2018 Ice Harvest begins at 11 a.m. on Jan. 11 when the first block of ice will be cut during the Cutting Ceremony. Harvesting will continue through Jan. 12. These blocks of ice will be used to construct a 24-foot tall Ice Palace. The Ice Palace will be Feb. 8, when there will be an Opening Party and Grand Lighting of the Ice Palace. Learn more about ice harvesting and associated Polar Fest festivities. 218-847-9202
Jan. 11-14, Hackensack
Back to Hack Winter Festival
Back to Hack celebrates winter with a wide array of activities including Frostbite Your Fanny 5K Race, Paul Bunyan Family Fishing Contest, Penguin Plunge, sled dog rides, snow sculpting contest, community bonfire, horse racing, live music, chili feed, silent auction, Sleigh of Spirits Raffle and fireworks display. Join in the fun of winter! 218-675-6135
Jan. 13, Ulen
Bob & the Beachcombers
This all-ages family-fun show features the super surfing hits of the '60s, along with some of the classic rock-n-roll of the '50s and popular favorites from the '70s and '80s as well. But it's not just the music -- it's so much more. Bob & the Beachcombers bring the beach balls, the Hawaiian leis, the Hula Hoops and a fun beach-party attitude to guarantee a special summertime celebration, even in the middle of a Northern Minnesota January! Top Hat Theatre at Ulen-Hitterdal School. 218-596-8853
Jan. 19, Mahnomen
REO Speedwagon
REO Speedwagon formed in 1967, and the band cultivated a following during the 1970s, achieving significant commercial success throughout the 1980s. Over the course of its career, the band has sold more than 40 million records and has charted thirteen Top 40 hits, including the number ones "Keep on Loving You" and "Can't Fight This Feeling." Other big hits include, "Roll With the Changes," "Take It on the Run," "Time for Me to Fly" and "Don't Let Him Go." Shooting Star Casino. 800-313-7469
Jan. 20-21, Park Rapids
Park Rapids USXC Snowmobile Race
The Heartland 106 snowmobile races run through forests and past lakes with 21 classes of races. USXC Racing is the largest cross-country snowmobile racing organization in North America. Onsite registration at C'mon Inn on Friday, Jan. 20! 218-234-6444
Jan. 27, Bemidji
Beaver Freeze Ice Fishing Tournament & Bemidji Outdoor Sports Show
The 2nd Annual Beaver Freeze Ice Fishing Tournament brings the public together with Bemidji State University students in an ice fishing competition with a chance to win several prizes! Check in will be at the Boathouse in Diamond Point Park. And while in Bemidji, check out the Bemidji Outdoor Sports Show held Jan. 26-28 at the Sanford Center. 218-755-4135, 218-441-4000
Northeast Minnesota
Jan. 11-20, Duluth
Calendar Girls
Calendar Girls is the hilarious and touching true story of middle-aged friends Chris and Annie who, upon the sudden loss of Annie's husband, resolve to raise money to buy a new sofa for the family room at the local Yorkshire hospital. Their racy plan to raise the money involves them and fellow Women's Institute members tastefully posing nude for an annual calendar. The successful sales and media storm that follows puts Chris and Annie's friendship to the test, while also proving "the flowers of Yorkshire are like the women of Yorkshire: the last phase of life is always the most glorious." Duluth Playhouse. 218-733-7555
Jan. 13, Chisholm
Genealogy Genie
The research center and archives have an abundance of materials and resources for anyone wanting to discover more about their heritage. An archivist is available to help you utilize the resources effectively and efficiently to locate specific family members and get copies of specific items. Classes are free to the public and last about an hour. Minnesota Discovery Center. 218-254-7959
Jan. 13, Duluth
Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra Sagas
Sibelius wrote about En Saga (A Fairy Tale), that in no other work did he reveal himself so completely. We contrast this tragic tale with one of humor and rambunctiousness: Strauss' Till Eulenspiegel's Merry Pranks, one of Strauss' greatest instrumental works. Finally, Strauss' final composition, his Four Last Songs, includes some of the most beautiful music you'll ever hear. Performed by Metropolitan Opera veteran, Christine Brewer, this will be an evening to remember! Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra. 218-623-3776
Jan. 19-28, International Falls
IceBox Days
This wacky winter festival known as Icebox Days is an annual celebration of International Falls' status as the "Icebox of the Nation!" Just some of the highlights included frozen turkey bowling, “smoosh” races, moonlight skiing in Voyageurs National Park, the infamous Freeze Yer Gizzard Blizzard Run, beer pong contest, wing eating contest, toilet seat toss, family movie night, yoga for runners, and much more! 218-283-9400
Jan. 20, Pine City
Winter Frolic
Shake off the winter blues by heading outdoors at the fur post. Learn about winter travel during the fur trade and join in activities like throwing a curling stone, playing a round of Ojibwe snow snake, or snowshoeing along two miles of trails. North West Company Fur Post. 320-629-6356
Jan. 28-31, Duluth/Grand Portage
John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon
The John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon is the longest race this side of Canada. We are looking forward to hosting 60+ world class mushers at this year’s race and over 500 volunteers from around the country. Attend one of the best displays of dog athleticism in America! The Beargrease is a qualifier for the famed Iditarod race in Alaska, running nearly 400 miles from Duluth to the Canadian border and back to Duluth. Come early and attend the first ever BEER-Grease on Jan. 26 at the Glensheen, with culinary creations, specialty beer by Canal Park Brewing, and bonfires. 218-722-7631, 888-454-GLEN
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