Event highlights this week include:
Jan. 22-26, Owatonna
Bold & Cold Winter Festival
Jan 23 - Feb 2, Minneapois & St. Paul
The Great Northern
Jan. 25, Brainerd
Brainerd Jaycees $150,000 Ice Fishing Extravaganza
Jan. 25, Walker
Ronnie Milsap In Concert
Jan. 24-30, Duluth
John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon
Southern Minnesota
Jan. 16-26, Rochester
A Year with Frog and Toad
This toe-tapping musical is for all ages. A hit on Broadway, A Year with Frog and Toad was nominated for three Tony Awards - including Best Musical. This whimsical show follows two great friends - the cheerful, popular Frog and the rather grumpy Toad, with a hummable score by Robert and Willie Reale. Absolute Theatre. 507-722-2731
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 for great deals, daily prizes, learn to curl, ski and ice skate, glow tubing, a snow sculpture contest, snowshoeing, sled bowling, hockey and more. Applebee's Neighborhood Grill & Bar. 507-385-6660
Jan. 22-26, Owatonna
Bold & Cold Winter Festival
The 2nd Annual Bold & Cold Winter Festival is designed to highlight the Minnesota psyche of "cold noses and warm hearts." Enjoy a medallion hunt, adult snow volleyball tournament, family ice fishing contest, fat biking and demos, ice skating to music, snow sculpture contest, hockey tournament, Crazy Days bargains, sledding at West Hills and much more. Various locations in Owatonna. 507-451-7970
Jan. 25, Winona
A Tribute to Eric Church by Tim Sigler
Highway 61 Concert Series presents: Fans of country music and Eric Church - come enjoy a night of over 30 of Eric's biggest hits all in one night! Tim Sigler and his band perform over 200 shows per year - check out their first appearance in Winona. Featuring some of the some of the best musicians in the Twin Cities, this is a must see show! St. Cecila Theatre. 507-452-0735
Jan. 27 - Feb. 23, Waseca
Sleigh & Cutter Festival
Started in 1950, this festival continues to entertain young and old. Waseca's annual winter festival features the Sleigh & Cutter Parade on Saturday, Feb 8, with magnificent horses of every type imaginable parading down State Street. Only animal-powered units and riders are allowed. Other events to observe or participate in include the 12th Annual Curling Bonspiel, ice sculpting, Frosty the Snowman contest, medallion hunt, dance with music by the Red Dirt Road Band, Vintage Snowmobile Race on Clear Lake, snowmobile fun runs, fireworks over Clear Lake, intro to fat tire biking, and the 16th Annual Sleigh & Cutter Children's Dream Catcher. Many restaurants and clubs offer will also offer special meals and live entertainment. Downtown Waseca. 507-461-3727
Feb. 1, Lake City
Winterfest
Celebrate winter with fun festivities during Winterfest in Lake City. Highlights include a dance party at the Lake City Sportsman's Club, a Hotdish Cook-off, Snowman Building Contest, Lake Pepin Ice Golf Open, Moonlight Cross-Country Skiing at Hok Si La Park, luncheon and bingo, 9-Pin Tournament, and the Fired Up Fat Bike Tour at Jewel Golf Course. 651-345-4123
Leo Kottke
Feb. 1, Red Wing
Grammy-nominated guitarist, Leo Kottke, is a master of guitar, a beloved Minnesota, and a fixture at the Sheldon. After recording more than 40 albums over four decades, Kottke is known across the nation for his impressive body of work and a simply stunning fingerpicking style that has won him two Grammy nominations. His sound draws inspiration from folk, blues and jazz, making it unique with his signature 6-string and 12-string guitars. The New York Times describes Kottke as a "guitarist who plays like two — his fingerpicking is a beautiful machine." Sheldon Theatre. 651-388-8700
Feb. 5-9, Winona
Frozen River Film Festival
The Frozen River Film Festival offers programs that engage, educate and activate people to become involved in the world. These programs provide a unique perspective on environmental issues, sustainable communities, adventure travel and sports, and diverse cultures while showcasing the art of documentary film. The films connect viewers with people at the heart of current events, organizations at the forefront of social change, and distinct cultures in an increasingly global community. Winona State University. 507-452-0735
Minneapolis-St. Paul Area
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
Jan. 17 - (weather dependent), New Brighton
Minnesota Ice Castles
Ice Castles is an award-winning frozen attraction located in six cities across North America. The experience is built using hundreds of thousands of icicles hand-placed by professional ice artists. The castles include breathtaking LED-lit sculptures, frozen thrones, ice-carved tunnels, slides, fountains and more. Long Lake Regional Park.
Jan. 18 - Feb. 9 (Saturdays and Sundays), Minneapolis
Art Shanty Projects 2020 On-Ice Program
Art Shanty Projects began in 2004 as an experiment in turning a traditional ice fishing house into a less conventional art studio and retreat on a frozen lake. Over 15 years and three lakes, it has grown into a much-anticipated annual festival that most recently hosted 40,000 visitors on Bde Unma/Lake Harriet in 2018. This year, check out more than 20 unique shanties, as well as over 150 artists and performers. The icy lake is transformed into a vibrant village, full of fantastical structures, bustling with musicians and performers of all kinds. Bde Unma/Lake Harriet. 612-567-6844
Jan. 23-26, Minneapolis
2020 Progressive Insurance Minneapolis Boat Show
The Progressive Minneapolis Boat Show features the upper Midwest’s best selection of new boats, along with hundreds of vendor booths showcasing the very latest in engines, marine electronics and accessories for every lifestyle, activity and budget. Compare makes and models, secure insurance and financing, and gear up with the latest accessories all under one roof! Minneapolis Convention Center. 612-332-8330
Jan. 23-26, Stillwater
Stillwater Winterfest
Winterfest is a community-wide celebration of all things winter, with activities such as the Opening Ceremony, Torchlight Parade, Parka Pub Crawl, Beer/Bags/Bingo, jousting, mini-golf, Stillwater's Got Talent Show, stein-holding contest, Hammerschlagen, Casserole Cook-off, live music events and more! Stillwater. 651-342-0176
Jan. 23 - Feb. 2, St. Paul
Saint Paul Winter Carnival
Attend the 134th Saint Paul Winter Carnival, the "Coolest Celebration on Earth" since 1886, and enjoy dozens of free events. Some of the highlights include Opening Ceremonies, 2020 Royal Coronation, Klondike Kate Cabaret, Vulcan Fun Day, Multi-Block Ice Carving & Snow Sculpting competitions, Winter Carnival Music Series, 2020 King Boreas Grand Day Parade, ice fishing competition, Winter Carnival Art Show, Hops & Hounds, Polar Plunges, Royal Promenade Fashion Show, Fancy Hotdish Competition, Vulcan Snow Park Giant Snow Slide, 2020 Saintly City Cat Show, Barstool Ski Races and more! Most events take place in downtown St. Paul, in and around Kellogg Mall Park and the Landmark Center, as well as at the Minnesota State Fairgrounds. 651-223-4700
Jan 23 - Feb 2, Minneapois & St. Paul
The Great Northern
Embrace winter at its wintry finest! The Great Northern, a ten-day winter celebration across Minneapolis and St. Paul, includes amazing winter sports for spectators such as pond hockey, skijoring and fat-tire bike racing, along with ice and snow sculpture competitions. There are also lots of food-focused events, outdoor concerts and more. This annual celebration includes legacy festivals such as the City of Lakes Loppet Ski Festival, the Saint Paul Winter Carnival, and the U.S. Pond Hockey Championships. Most events are free to attend. So bundle up, get outside and leave the hibernating to the bears! Minneapolis and St. Paul venues and parks. 952-994-8503
Jan. 24-25, Chanhassen
Bridge Over Troubled Water - An Album Tribute
The music of Simon & Garfunkel is forever ingrained into our hearts and minds. Don't miss Collective Unconscious, performing with a live orchestra to present Simon & Garfunkel's album Bridge Over Troubled Water in its entirety. Chanhassen Dinner Theaters. 952-934-1525
Jan. 24-25, St. Paul
Cinch World's Toughest Rodeo
The sidewalk ends and the Wild West begins at Cinch World's Toughest Rodeo featuring three fan-favorite events — bareback riding, saddle bronc riding, and the most extreme sport, bull riding. Twelve contestants will compete for the chance to return for the final winner-takes-all Ultimate Showdown Round. In addition, some of the nation's fastest cowgirls will compete against the clock in the Women's Barrel Racing competition. Xcel Energy Center. 651-726-8240
Jan. 24-26, Minneapolis
Minneapolis Home + Remodeling Show
The Home + Remodeling Show is sure to inspire homeowners with specific home improvement projects in mind. With remodeling, interior design and home improvement presentations scattered throughout the show, and more than 250 go-to resources and vendors, this show will help with all your home and remodeling needs. U.S. Bank Stadium. 952-933-3850
Jan. 25, Scandia
Vinterfest
Enjoy this celebration of winter, Scandinavian-style! Just some of the highlights include the Minnesotan Cup Hockey tournament at Wojtowicz Skating Park, a snow sculpture contest, sledding, arts & crafts fair, Beaivi and the Reindeer Play, fireworks display, Chili Contest, free movie, and beer & food tent. 651-433-2274
Jan. 25 - Feb. 1, Minneapolis & St. Paul
Twin Cities Jewish HumorFest 2020
Celebrate Jewish comedy, humor and chutzpah in all artistic forms. This week-long celebration of Jewish humor features many comedians and authors, as well as story-telling art exhibitions from Minnesota and across the globe. Some of the event's celebrities include Matt Goldman (Seinfeld), and Alan Zweibel (SNL)! Everyone will enjoy the humor, regardless of background. Sabes JCC Theater and St. Paul JCC Theater. 952-381-3438
Jan. 26, Chanhassen
What a Woman Knows
Join Ginger Commodore, Debbie Duncan, Yolande Bruce and Gwen Matthews as they sing songs from a woman's point of view. Hear this truly legendary group of performers sing songs like “My Funny Valentine,” “I Loves You Porgy,” “Fools Fall in Love,” “I Will Survive,” “If I Could,” “If I Were Your Woman,” and many more! Chanhassen Dinner Theaters. 952-934-1525
Jan. 31 - Feb. 1, Chanhassen
Forever Everly
This joyous performance features a full band and six wonderful vocalists: Mary Jane Alm, Matt Velline, Boyd & Aimee Lee, and brothers Paul and Tim Frantzich, all taking turns to interpret the rich and varied musical catalog of the legendary duo. Whether you're a lifelong Everly Brothers fan, or just a fan of great vocal harmonies, this show promises to be a treat! Chanhassen Dinner Theaters. 952-934-1525
Feb. 1, Minneapolis
12th Annual Chili Cook-off
What better way to warm a February day than to taste one-of-a-kind, homemade chilis and vote for your favorite? A Cornbread Competition and Brownie Bake-off will also be offered. And if you like, watch wheel-throwing demonstrations then try your hand at the wheel! Northern Clay Center. 612-339-8007
Feb. 1, Chanhassen
February Festival
February Festival is a fun winter festival the whole family can enjoy. Festivities include an ice fishing contest (pre-registration is encouraged), a snowshoe demonstration, horse-drawn sleigh rides, fat tire bike demonstration, sled dogs, concessions and more! Lake Ann Park. 952-227-1100
Central Minnesota
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. 17 - Feb. 9 (Fridays through Sundays), Spicer
Spicer Winterfest
Get the most out of winter during four weekends of action-packed activities such as ice fishing tournaments, the 16th Annual Polar Bear Plunge, Frozen 5K Run, Winterfest Kids' Carnival, horse and buggy rides, hockey, cross-country skiing and medallion hunting. And don't miss the craft sale and fireworks display! 320-796-8066
Jan. 24-25, St. Cloud
Laser Light Tubing
Laser Light Tubing is back! Enjoy an evening of tubing with the lights off while lasers, strobes and flashing lights cover the hill. Live DJ music, a fire pit, concessions, beverages and free glow sticks are also offered. This is a kid-friendly event. Tickets must be pre-purchased online as spots are limited! Powder Ridge Ski Area. 320-398-7200
Jan. 25, Brainerd
Brainerd Jaycees $150,000 Ice Fishing Extravaganza
Join 10,000 anglers from around the world vying for more than $150,000 in prizes by competing in the Brainerd Jaycees $150,000 Ice Fishing Extravaganza. Spectators also enjoy all of the fun, with a chance to win free swag, prize giveaways, and Youth on Ice Olympics — come a day early for the Friday Night Kick-off Party at Grand View Lodge Gull Lake Center featuring comedian C. Willi Myles! Hole in the Day Bay on Gull Lake. 218-824-9461
Jan. 26, Brainerd
Fun in the Sun
Join the Rural Renewable Energy Alliance and Lakes Area Habitat for Humanity for trivia, live music, a taco bar, beer and camaraderie during Fun in the Sun! All proceeds will go to RREAL's local solar for humanity work. Roundhouse Brewery. 218-454-2739
Jan. 31 - Feb. 1, Ottertail
Otter Tail Co - On Ice!
OTC- On ICE! will kick-off the event Friday evening with performances by Whiskey Business and 32 Below. The White Iron Band, Corey Medina & Brothers, Patrick Murphy & Tigirlily will take the stage on Saturday. Also on Saturday, don't miss all of the antics at the Polar Plunge 2020. Dog sled rides will be offered at Thumper Pond Resort for a fee. Otter Tail Lake. 612-210-5525
Feb. 1, Crosby
Ice Fishing Contest and Scorpion Homecoming
Join hundreds of anglers and snowmobile enthusiasts at the Cuyuna Lakes Chamber's 16th Annual Ice Fishing Contest and Scorpion Homecoming. The fishing contest boasts more than $1,000 in prizes for lucky and skilled anglers — prizes are awarded to fish of all sizes during the three-hour contest. Scorpion Homecoming dusts off wonderful old machines and recalls a time when the Cuyuna Lakes was among the largest snowmobile producers in the world. Numerous Scorpions will be on display and a trail ride is planned. Serpent Lake near Crosby’s Memorial Park. 218-546-8131
Feb. 8, Glenwood
Winterama
This fun-filled day on Lake Minnewaska features the Waterama Polar Plunge, a Chili Cook-off, live music, games, the Swetti Yetti Obstacle Course, a Fun Run, fireworks and more! Lake Minnewaska near the Lakeside Ballroom. 320-634-3636
Northwest Minnesota
Jan. 24-26, Bemidji
Vocalmotive Dinner Show
Vocalmotive is an award-winning show choir, winning Best Vocals, Best Choreography, and Best Instrumental Combo to name a few. Four Vocalmotive Dinner Shows will be offered. Bemidji High School Commons. 218-444-1600, ext. 3315
Jan. 25, Walker
Ronnie Milsap In Concert
Country Music Hall of Fame Member and legendary country music singer and pianist will perform live at Northern Lights Casino. 844-554-2646
Jan. 25, Bemidji
Snow Science Experiments
Just how much water is there in snow? Ever heard of hot ice? Ever seen it snow in a jar? Explore a variety of fun, hands-on snow science experiments at Lake Bemidji State Park. 218-308-2328
Jan. 31 - Feb. 9, Bemidji
Boeing, Boeing
It's the 60's and Bernard, a bachelor, has a flat in Paris where he is engaged to three stewardesses. Up until now, he has been able to keep his secret without them knowing. However, his happy and "perfect" set-up is about to come crashing down as a new, faster Boeing jet throws off his precise planning and all three stewardesses arrive in town at the same time. The Historic Chief Theatre. 218-755-8942
Feb. 1, Lake Park
Midnight Riders Old Timers Classic
The Midnite Riders Old Timers Classic is a fun run geared toward snowmobiles 25 years and older, with judging in various classes. After the judging, the 40-mile fun ride begins. There will be eight stops at local businesses. Bleachers Bar & Grill. 218-238-5532
Feb. 6-17, Detroit Lakes
Polar Fest Detroit Lakes
Celebrate winter over ten days in Detroit Lakes, with many free events offered. Highlights include the Ice Palace, Polar Fest Plunge, Freeze Your Buns 5K Run, Professional Ice Sculpture Competition, Poles 'N Holes Fishing Derby and frozen fireworks at the beach! Other fun events include the Ice Tee Golf Tourney, theatre performances, presentation by Polar Explorer Paul Schurke, skiing on Detroit Mountain, the Hotdish Challenge and Polaritaville dance. Little Detroit Lake and venues throughout Detroit Lakes. 218-47-9202
Northeast Minnesota
Jan. 10-26, Duluth
Disney's Frozen JR
For the first time in forever, the Disney Broadway musical nominated for three Tony Awards graces the Family Theatre stage. Tucked away in the kingdom of Arendelle live Princesses Anna and Elsa. Anna is a fearless, spirited dreamer, and Elsa, while timid, harnesses magic in her fingertips capable of creating worlds of ice and snow. When an icy outburst causes a never-ending winter and Elsa makes a quick retreat, Anna sets out to find her. Along the way, she meets ice salesman Kristoff, his reindeer sidekick Sven, and a loveable snowman named Olaf. Playhouse Family Theatre at the Duluth Depot. 218-733-7555
Jan. 22-26, Ely
Northland 300 - Snowmobiling for Special Olympics
The Northland 300 is a 300-mile, 3-day charity snowmobile ride, made up of volunteer participants who raise funds to support Special Olympics Minnesota. A banquet and raffle will be held on Saturday, Jan. 25. The Grand Ely Lodge will serve as the hub for this event. 612-840-9660
Jan. 24-30, Duluth
John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon
Established in 1980, the John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon is the longest sled dog race in the lower 48 states. Every year, world-class mushers compete in the nearly 400-mile event from Two Harbors to the Canadian border and back to Two Harbors. Saturday, Jan. 25, is packed with events such as Vet Checks, Opening Ceremonies Dinner and Silent Auction. The race begins Sunday, Jan. 26 and runs through Jan. 29. The Beargrease is a qualifier for the famed Iditarod race in Alaska. 218-722-7631
Jan. 25, Grand Rapids
Winter Adventure Family Day
Make the most of winter by heading outdoors to snowshoe, ride bullet sleds, take a horse-drawn sleigh ride and launch snowballs with a giant slingshot. Plus, enjoy indoor wildlife presentations with live animals, music, games and more. Forest History Center. 218-327-4482
Jan. 31, Grand Rapids
The Office: A Musical Parody
It's a typical morning at Scranton's third largest paper company until, for no logical reason, a documentary crew begins filming the lives of the employees of Dunder Mifflin. Don't miss this hilarious parody of the hit TV show, "The Office." Currently playing on Broadway at The Theater Center in New York City. Reif Center. 218-327-5780
Jan. 31 - Feb. 2, Duluth
Duluth Ice & Mixed Fest
Join the Duluth Climbers Coalition for their annual winter rendezvous, the Duluth Ice & Mixed Fest! Hone your skills and dull your tips on Casket Quarry’s legendary ice and mixed lines, and enjoy the amenities of Outside magazine’s number one ranked outdoor city! Quarry Park. 218-722-4011
Feb. 7-9, Mora
Vasaloppet Cross-Country Ski, Fat Tire, Skijoring Races & Winter Festival
Head to Mora to watch or participate in the Spark Races, Miniloppet Races, Fat Tire Bike Race, and Skijor Race with your dog. Also enjoy an art show, great food and shopping. Afterwards, party in the 6000-square foot heated tent complete with live music, dancing and beverages. A full weekend of fun in the snow! Downtown Mora. 320-679-2629
Be sure to visit the Explore Minnesota Events Page to learn of other festivals and events!
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