Event highlights this week include:
Jan. 4, Pipestone
Pipestone County Christmas Bird Count
Nov. 22 - Jan. 5 (Fridays through Sundays), Chaska
Winter in Bloom Lights Display
Jan. 3-5, Breezy Point
25th Annual Ice Fest
Jan. 4, Detroit Lakes
Ultra 80s & Older Classic Cruise Snowmobile Ride
Jan. 3-5, Sandstone
Sandstone Ice Festival
Southern Minnesota
Jan. 4, Owatonna
The Mystery Cafe presents - "I'll be Homicidal for Christmas"
It's December 23rd, 1978. Albee Humphrey used to be household name, but these days his star is fading. He's got one last shot at his big comeback - with a network televised Christmas special. There's celebrity guests, variety acts, and there's even rumor of a reunion with his former comedy partner - who he hasn't spoken to in 20 years. The Mystery Cafe dishes out a hilarious comedy caper by the Twin Cities' original comedy murder mystery dinner theater, where you and your table are invited to solve the crime, all while enjoying a delicious 3-course meal! Owatonna Country Club. 763-566-2583
Jan. 4, Pipestone
Pipestone County Christmas Bird Count
Bundle up, grab a camera or phone that takes good photos, join a group of birders for Pipestone's Christmas Bird Count and help document as many birds as possible. Before heading out, enjoy complimentary donuts and coffee. Pipestone National Monument. 507-825-5464
Jan. 5, Rochester
Unveiled Rochester
Step into the magical world of weddings and immerse yourself in a planning experience designed by The Wedding Guys. Experience a day of bridal eye-candy where inspiration is everywhere. Unveiled Rochester features the area's top wedding businesses, with new inspiration, ideas and trends. Mayo Civic Center Ballroom. 612-979-7778
Jan. 10, Worthington
Worthington Arts Learning with Minnesota Sinfonia
The Worthington Orchestra and choir students join the Sinfonia for a community concert. The program will include popular classical works, lighter pieces and Franz Joseph Haydn's Surprise Symphony. Worthington Memorial Auditorium. 612-871-1701
Jan. 11, Henderson
Full Moon Snowshoe Hike
Enjoy the park after dark while embarking on a snowshoe hike with a naturalist as your guide. If the sky is clear, peer through a telescope to view the moon up close! All equipment provided. Reservations required online by Jan. 9 at www.neycenter.org. Ney Nature Center. 507-357-8580
Jan. 17-26, Mankato
SnowKato Days
SnowKato Days is a 10-day winter festival packed with activities for all ages and interests. This new annual event is a call to action for those who are up for bold, crazy winter fun. Planned activities include a medallion hunt, promotional buttons, daily prizes, learn to curl, ski and ice skate, a snow sculpture contest, sled bowling, hockey and more. Applebee's Neighborhood Grill & Bar. 507-385-6660
Minneapolis-St. Paul Area
Nov. 8 - Jan. 5, Shakopee
Sever's Holiday Lights
Drive along and enjoy more than 1,000,000 lights synchronized to classic holiday tunes for an unforgettable new Twin Cities tradition. Stay in the comfort and warmth of your own vehicle while enjoying this one-of-a-kind magical display. Sip on hot cocoa and snack on mini donuts, caramel popcorn and other treats from Drew’s Concessions. Sever's new site at 3121 W 150th Street. 952-270-6293
Nov. 21 - Jan. 2, Bloomington
Take Flight to the North Pole at FlyOver America!
FlyOver America will transform into a magical winter wonderland for the holiday season. Guests will have fun helping Santa search for his missing elves during an exhilarating flight across America and onto the North Pole. It's time to take your holiday traditions to new heights! Mall of America. 952-853-6000
Nov. 22 - Jan. 5 (Fridays through Sundays), Chaska
Winter in Bloom Lights Display
Outdoor and indoor holiday lights celebrate the season! Indoors, find the Great Hall of Trees with a live poinsettia tree and decorated trees with nature-inspired ornaments and greens. Outside, enjoy a self-guided walking tour of lighted nature-inspired installations and more. Other highlights include hot family-friendly food in the cafe, a cash bar, live music Saturdays and Sundays, and free shuttle service Friday and Saturday nights. Winter in Bloom will also be open the week of Dec. 26 through Jan. 2. Inquire about additional special holiday events offered during the month of December! Minnesota Landscape Arboretum. 612-624-2200
Dec. 6 - Feb. 22, St. Paul
Destination Winter Saint Paul
Destination Winter Saint Paul is bringing a one-of-a-kind experience to Lowertown. All ages will enjoy the relocation of Wells Fargo WinterSkate from Landmark Plaza to the playing surface at CHS Field, as well as the return of the 40-foot Securian SuperSlide for the first time since Super Bowl LII. 651-644-6659; 651-202-2700
Dec. 27 - Jan. 18, White Bear Lake
The Mystery Cafe Presents "I'll be Homicidal for Christmas"
It's December 23rd, 1978. Albee Humphrey used to be household name, but these days his star is fading. He's got one last shot at his big comeback - with a network televised Christmas special. There's celebrity guests, variety acts, and there's even rumor of a reunion with his former comedy partner - who he hasn't spoken to in 20 years. The Mystery Cafe dishes out a hilarious comedy caper by the Twin Cities' original comedy murder mystery dinner theater, where you and your table are invited to solve the crime, all while enjoying a delicious 3-course meal. Majestic Oaks Golf Club. 763-566-2583
Jan. 3-4, Shakopee
Pirtek Snocross National
Canterbury Park's Snocross National brings the best extreme snowmobile riders in the country to Shakopee for two days or high-flying stunts and exhilarating racing. Watch riders soar over jumps and speed around the track from the indoor comfort of the Canterbury Park Grandstand. 952-445-6870
Jan. 9-11, Chanhassen
Rumours & Dreams - The Music of Fleetwood Mac
For fans of Fleetwood Mac or anyone who simply loves melodic rock 'n' roll, this remarkable show returns to CDT after numerous sold-out engagements, and is an absolute must-see. Singer-songwriter Pamela McNeill has compiled a song list of Fleetwood Mac's most well-loved songs delivered impeccably by a nine-piece ensemble of gifted musicians that is truly inspired. Soak up hits including: "Rhiannon," "You Make Lovin' Fun," Don't Stop Thinkin' About Tomorrow," "Gypsy," "Tusk," "Little Lies," "Sara," and many, many more. Chanhassen Dinner Theatre. 952-934-1525
Jan. 10, Burnsville
John Mueller's Winter Dance Party: Tribute to Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens and The Big Bopper
John Mueller's "Winter Dance Party" is the official live and authentic re-creation of Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens and the Big Bopper's final tour and the only show endorsed by the Holly, Valens and Richardson estates. Each live concert performance includes over two hours of unbridled, high voltage entertainment featuring all the hit songs of the 50s era. Ames Center. 952-895-4685
Jan. 11, St. Paul
WW Presents Oprah's 2020 Vision: Your Life in Focus
Global media leader Oprah Winfrey has announced her first national arena tour in five years, Oprah's 2020 Vision: Your Life in Focus. Presented by WW - Weight Watchers Reimagined - Oprah will bring a full day wellness event to nine U.S. cities including Saint Paul. Joined by high profile guests, Oprah will help motivate audiences across the country to make 2020 the year of renewal and celebrate all we are meant to be. Xcel Energy Center. 651-726-8240
Jan. 11, Stillwater
Tonic Sol-fa Concert
Tonic Sol-fa is a ground-breaking a cappella ensemble from Minnesota, in constant development since their formation two decades ago. TSF stands as one of the leading forces in the world of vocal music with Emmy Award winning arrangements and multi-million selling compositions. The Zephyr Theatre. 651-342-1542
Jan. 11-12, Minneapolis
Ben Folds with the Minnesota Orchestra
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
Central Minnesota
Jan. 3-5, Breezy Point
25th Annual Ice Fest
The annual Ice Fest features a large Pond Hockey Tournament. Other festivities include bonfires on the beach, outdoor tent with beverage bars, free horse-drawn hay rides, snow golf on Breezy Bay, ice slide for the kids, dog sled rides, food and drink specials, and afternoon and evening live music performances in the Dockside Lounge. Breezy Point Resort. 218-562-7171
Jan. 4, St. Cloud
Michael Shyness Album Release
Michael returns one year after his sold out performance at the Paramount to release a new collection of songs with his eight-piece band and storyteller-style live show that pairs folk music with high energy pop and R&B. Shynes has become a platinum recording artist overseas. Paramount Center for the Arts. 320-259-5463
Jan. 4, Carlos
Candlelight Snowshoe/Ski
Enjoy an evening in the park snowshoeing, skiing or hiking by candlelight and moonlight. Hit the trails, guided by the full moon and candle luminaries, then warm up by the wood stove and enjoy snacks and refreshments in the< Lakeview warming shelter. Lake Carlos State Park. 320-852-7200
Jan. 11, St. Cloud
The Belfast Cowboys - the Music of Van Morrison & More!
The Belfast Cowboys are a nine-piece band that specializes in the music of Van Morrison. Powered by a four-piece horn section, the Cowboys have risen to the top of the renowned Minnesota music scene, and have consistently packed houses and wowed crowds since 2002. Pioneer Place on Fifth. 320-203-0331; 320-227-8222
Jan. 11 - Feb. 29 (most Saturdays), Willmar
Sno-Skippers Snowmobile Races
S.N.O.W.FEST 7 is a celebration of snowmobiling wrapped around a snowmobile film festival. The day will begin with a vintage snowmobile show and film festival, followed by a silent auction, dealer demos and specials on new sleds, and door prizes. Muggs of Mille Lacs in downtown Wahkon. 612-805-4738
Jan. 18, St. Cloud
St. Cloud Craft Beer Tour
In the tradition of the Grand Tasting, each attendee will be given a commemorative sampling glass and have the opportunity to try unlimited samples of approximately 150 craft beers from breweries throughout Minnesota and the country. River's Edge Convention Center. 320-255-7272
Northwest Minnesota
Jan. 1, Park Rapids
First Day Hike: A Backcountry Exploration
Get your New Year's resolutions going on the first day of the New Year! Join the park naturalist for an invigorating snowshoe hike along the Dr. Roberts Trail. Dress for being outdoors, and bring along your snowshoes, water and sunglasses. A limited number of snowshoes are available at the Jacob V. Brower Visitor Center for use during the program and are first-come-first-serve. Jacob V. Brower Visitor Center at Itasca State Park. 218-699-7251
Jan. 4, Detroit Lakes
Ultra 80s & Older Classic Cruise Snowmobile Ride
Bring your 80s and older classic snowmobiles to the fairgrounds for a ride to Vergas and back. Becker County Fairgrounds. 218-849-3069
Jan. 10-12, Thief River Falls
Ice Fest
Ice Fest is a new event that celebrates winter in Thief River Falls! Take part in dog sled rides, fat tire biking, 5K/10K runs, hockey games & much more. The event kicks off on Friday at 5 p.m. with the Fire & Ice Kickoff Social at River Walk Public House where you can enjoy fierce entertainment, frosty beer and delicious food. Ralph Engelstad Arena. 218-686-9785
Jan. 11-14, East Grand Forks
Northern Star Skating Competition
Don't miss the stunning routines and amazing skating skills of participants in the Northern Star Skating Competition. VFW Arena & Civic Center. 218-7779-5861
Jan. 17-19, Hackensack
Back to Hack Winter Festival
Back to Hack celebrates winter with activities including Frostbite Your Fanny 5K Race, Paul Bunyan Family Fishing Contest, Penguin Plunge, snow sculpting contest, community bonfire and fireworks. Returning this year will be horse racing, a silent auction and the Sleigh of Spirits Raffle. Come join in the winter fun! Downtown Hackensack. 218-675-6135
Jan. 18-19, Park Rapids
USXC Snowmobile Race - Park Rapids Heartland 200
USXC is a snowmobile cross-country racing circuit that travels through many locations and terrains across the Midwest. This is the only woods race in the 6 to 8 event circuit. The goal of USXC is to continue the tradition of racer-friendly events at many classic cross-country venues, giving drivers, crews and fans the best possible experience. Behind the Salvage Depot on HWY 34 east of Park Rapids. 218-732-4111
Northeast Minnesota
Nov. 15 - Jan. 5, Duluth
Christmas Tours at Glensheen Mansion
The Glensheen Mansion is your Christmas by day Christmas activity during the holiday season in Duluth. See 25 Christmas Trees and hunt for 25 hidden elves in the 39-room mansion! Try to spot the hidden elves as you admire the 25 Christmas trees, sample a free Christmas cookie recreated from Clara’s very own shortbread cookie recipe, and finish off your tour by exploring the lakeside snowy grounds. Historic Glensheen Mansion. 218-726-8910
Jan. 3-5, Sandstone
Sandstone Ice Festival
Sandstone Ice Festival is Minnesota's original ice festival, with ice climbing, snowshoeing, skinny skiing, winter camping, snowshoeing and all things winter. Also enjoy winter gear demos, a Climbers' Meet and Greet, the Great Swap & Swing, guest speakers, door prizes and raffle. The event is free and open to the public, but there is a fee for the climbing clinics. Robinson Park. 651-302-1774
Jan. 4, Lutsen
Yam Haus
The Minneapolis-based pop group, Yam Haus, is winning over the indie-dominated scene of the Twin Cities with "electro-poppy grooves and swooning vocals" (Star Tribune, June 2018). Tight guitars, dreamy synths and clean production from Grammy award-winning producer Mark Heimermann, helped drive year one successes. Papa Charlie's at Lutsen Mountains. 218-406-1320
Jan. 5, Meadowlands
Tracking and Animal Sign Field Trip
North Woods No. 1, the Forest History Center's recreated 1900s logging camp, comes to life under a blanket of snow during this yearly event. Join the logging camp crew as they get ready to celebrate Christmas, and enjoy sleigh rides, hot chocolate, cider and more. Bring a camera and have your picture taken with Santa! Forest History Center. 218-327-4482
Jan. 10-11, Lutsen
Ski Party at Lutsen Mountains
The 4th Annual Ski Party is a weekend ski, snowboard and music festival curated by the folks at GNDWIRE Records. It's a party for friends, new and old, to hang on the slopes and in the chalets for great music. Papa Charlie's at Lutsen Mountains. 218-406-1340
Jan. 11, Grand Rapids
Flying Foot Forum
Flying Foot Forum is a vibrant and bold percussive dance/theater company that fuses percussion and percussive dances with various forms of music, dance and theater, all while telling unusual tales, creating a wild variety of characters and exploring universal ideas in inventive and exciting new ways. Reif Center. 218-327-5780
Jan. 11-12, Meadowlands
Boreal Birds Weekend Adventure
Enjoy a multi-day, intensive birding experience and workshop featuring presentations by Executive Director, Sparky Stensaas, and Head Naturalist, Clinton Nienhaus. Each day will feature birding through northern Minnesota in search of special species that make the boreal forest home. Days will be long, and probably cold, but the group will be in and out of the van. There will be no snowshoeing or major bushwhacking. Most birding will be from roadsides, trails and boardwalks. Sax-Zim Bog. 218-341-3350
Jan. 18, 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. Guests can also relax indoors, enjoy a cup of cocoa before a blazing fire and learn a historic game or two. North West Company Fur Post. 320-629-6356
Be sure to visit the Explore Minnesota Events Page to learn of other festivals and events!
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