Event highlights this week include:
Feb. 1, Lake City
Winterfest
Jan. 18 - Feb. 9 (Saturdays and Sundays), Minneapolis
Art Shanty Projects 2020 On-Ice Program
Jan. 31 - Feb. 1, Ottertail
Otter Tail Co - On Ice!
Feb. 1, Lake Park
Midnight Riders Old Timers Classic
Jan. 31 - Feb. 2, Duluth
Duluth Ice & Mixed Fest
Please note that the Events Update e-newsletter will not be sent out next week. Explore Minnesota newsletters will resume the week of Feb. 9.
Southern Minnesota
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 will offer special meals and live entertainment. And, check out the #OnlyinMN Monument Installation for some great photo opportunities! Downtown Waseca. 507-461-3727
Feb. 1, Lake City
Winterfest
Celebrate winter with fun festivities during Winterfest in Lake City. Highlights include a Hotdish Cook-off, snowman building contest, hot air balloons, moonlight cross-country skiing, Ice Golf Open on Lake Pepin, luncheon and bingo at the American Legion, Fired Up Fat Bike Tour at Jewel Golf Course, dance party at the Lake City Sportsman's Club and fireworks display. Venues throughout Lake City. 651-345-4123
Feb. 1, Red Wing
Leo Kottke
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
Feb. 6-8, Rochester
SocialICE
Get ready for three days of ice, fun and themed cocktails at SocialICE in downtown Rochester! From The Simpsons to Stranger Things, SocialICE ice bar themes run the gamut. All will have their own signature drink and full-scale ice sculptures illuminated with vibrant hues of light. Keep your blood pumping with nightly live DJ entertainment. Other highlights include a Polar Bear Plunge at Foster Arend Park, giant igloo, photo opportunites with life-sized ice sculptures, and best beard and plaid clothing contests. And on Feb. 8, the family-friendly SocialICE FAM JAM will include fun with LED hula hoops, warm s'mores at the fire pits, giant illuminated snowball toss, kid-friendly warm beverages, curling and snow yoga! Downtown Rochester. 507-216-9882
Feb. 7-9, Austin
Pecos Pete and Slue-Foot Sue Meet the Dirty Dan Gang
In this Matchbox Children's Theatre production, Granny is being threatened by Dirty Dan and his gang, bandits who quiver and shake whenever there's mention of soap and water. Pecos Bill and Slue-Foot Sue arrive just in time to save the day. This melodrama is filled with contests, complications and loaded with laughs. Historic Paramount Theatre. 507-437-9078; 507-434-0934
Feb. 14, Red Wing
The Second City (Laughing for all the Wrong Reasons)
The Second City is here to break all the comedy rules they made famous in this all-new, all-hilarious revue that will leave you laughing and questioning everything you thought you knew about what’s funny! Starring the next generation of comedy superstars, there are about a bazillion reasons to not miss this show. Sheldon Theatre. 651-388-8700
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 later, it has grown into a much-anticipated annual festival that 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. Admission is free! Bde Unma/Lake Harriet. 612-567-6844
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, Minneapolis & 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. 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. 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
Jan. 31 - Feb. 2, Minneapolis
City of Lakes Loppet Ski Festival
The Loppet features cross-country ski races for all ages, skill-levels and abilities. Also enjoy a youth ski carnival, skijoring races, kubb tournament, snow sculpture competition, sprint races, ice biking and popular Luminary Loppet, a beautiful nighttime ski around Lake of the Isles, all lit up with thousands of ice luminaries! Whether you're a cheerleader or a participant, you won't want to miss this annual tradition! The Trailhead at Theodore Worth Regional Park. 612-604-5330
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
Feb. 1, 8 & 14, Ham Lake
The Mystery Cafe presents "Alma Murder - A Killer Class Reunion"
The Alumni of Mellencamp Sr. High have learned that their old Alma Mater is soon to be demolished. To show their school spirit, they've decided to throw one last all-class reunion. The Mystery Cafe dishes out a hilarious comedy caper, 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
Feb. 1 - March 1, Chaska
Flower Show at the Arb
Welcome the idea of spring with a lush, colorful flower show at the Arboretum. In addition to beautiful flower arrangements, the show will feature timeless blooms from glass artist Donna Rice. Minnesota Landscape Arboretum. 612-624-2200
Feb. 2-9, Minneapolis
Blue Man Group
Over 35 million people on our blue planet have experienced the surprising and exciting show that is Blue Man Group. And now, the Blue Men return with a new touring show — Blue Man Group Speechless Tour. If you like normal, think again - 'cause Speechless is full of joy, art, music and hilarious absurdity. Historic State Theatre. 612-339-7007
Feb. 6-9, Minneapois
Minneapolis/St. Paul RV, Vacation & Camping Show
Whether you’re a seasoned RVer or just getting started, this show is for you! Featured are the latest state-of-the-art technology and designs in motorhomes, fifth wheels, travel trailers, van campers, truck campers, pop-up campers and more, as well as innovative RV products and accessories, travel destinations, tourism information, educational seminars and daily entertainment. Minneapolis Convention Center. 612-335-6000
Feb. 7-8, Wayzata
Wayzata Chilly Open Frozen Golf Tournament
Minnesota Golf in February? You Betcha! Imagine three 9-hole courses plowed out on Lake Minnetonka, and over 1,700 golfers with their hockey sticks and golf clubs hitting and putting tennis balls while enjoying free food, give-a-ways, prizes and costumes -- that's the Wayzata Chilly Open Frozen Golf Tournament! Other highlights include the Chili Cook-off, Snowga (Yoga) Class, snowkiting, dog sled rides, and the 19th Hole Tent. Wayzata Bay on Lake Minnetonka. 952-473-9595
Feb. 8, Buffalo
Kites on Ice Kite Festival
Kites on Ice Kite Festival is a sight like you've never seen before with kites of all shapes, sizes and colors filling the sky above Buffalo Lake in beautiful, downtown Buffalo! There will also be a kite building workshop for kids, a cornhole tournament for adults, food & beverage trucks, and a view for all to enjoy! 763-682-4902
Feb. 8, Minneapolis
Healthy Life Expo
Explore up to 180+ exhibitors offering everything for better health and wellness, in all areas of life! Enjoy ongoing seminars and demonstrations on three stages, hourly prize drawings, Booth Bingo, product and food sampling, a US Air Force obstacle course, free fitness consultation, evaluation and workout tips, free health screenings, live entertainment and great shopping all weekend long! Minneapolis Convention Center Ballroom. 952-238-1700
Feb. 9, Chanhassen
The Gospel According to Elvis
Mick Sterling's "From the King, For the King" celebrates the deeply spiritual and moving songs that Elvis, throughout his entire career, always leaned on and moved him. These completely unique early Elvis-era gospel songs are fueled by the inventive and completely distinctive vocals of the legendary Jordanaires. No jump suits and glitz. Just the songs that Elvis loved and honored each time he sang them. Chanhassen Dinner Theaters. 952-934-1525
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. 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. 7-9, St. Cloud
2020 Sportsmen's Show
Whether you are into boating, camping, hunting or other outdoor activities, this show is for you. Check out the best in resorts, lodges and camps, attend great hunting and fishing seminars, and get special deals on the newest boats, campers and accessories. River's Edge Convention Center. 320-255-7272
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
Feb. 14-16, Nisswa
Nisswa Winter Jubilee
Jubilee activities include snow sculptures, parade, wood splitting contest, smoosh racing, medallion hunt and an ice fishing derby on Nisswa Lake -- winter fun for the entire family! Downtown Nisswa. 218-963-2620
Northwest Minnesota
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. 1, Longville
Ice Bocce Tournament
Enjoy a hot competition on ice! Ice bocce is a fun combination of bowling, bocce ball and shuffleboard. Lanes are plowed on the ice near Patrick's, so food, beverages and warmth are right nearby. A great spectator sport, too! On Girl Lake near Patrick's. 218-363-2630
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
Feb. 7-8, Cass Lake
Cass Lake Area Chamber/Cedar Lakes Casino & Hotel Winter Fishing Challenge
Come a day before the Ice Fishing Challenge for a Friday night Informational Program and Banquet at the new Cedar Lakes Casino & Hotel with door prizes awarded all evening! Then on Saturday morning, attend the ice fishing contest on beautiful Cass Lake, following by a luncheon and award ceremony with cash prizes. Cass Lake and Cedar Lakes Casino & Hotel. 218-214-1359
Feb. 16, Bemidji
Big Screen Rhythms
The Bemidji Symphony Orchestra brings to life the epic masterpieces of the silver screen. Enjoy an afternoon of your favorite cinema music with classics such as Jurassic Park, Star Wars, ET, Harry Potter and more! Bemidji High School Auditorium. 218-444-7914
Northeast Minnesota
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. 1, Grand Marais
Cook County Snowmobile Club Fun Run
The Ridge Rider's Cook County Snowmobile Club has organized a snowmobile fun run with raffles, prize drawings and prize money for high and low card hands. Also enjoy food and drink specials, and dancing the night away to a lively dance band! Hungry Jack Lodge. 218-387-9392
Feb. 6-16, Ely
Ely Winter Festival and Ely ArtWalk
This 10-day celebration highlights the unique culture, art, history and traditions of the BWCAW area. The main attractions are the International Snow Sculpting Symposium and the Ely ArtWalk. The Ely ArtWalk features artwork created by established and emerging artists in downtown store windows. There are also events for the whole family including craft fairs, sled dog rides, a snowshoe to the Hegman Pictographs, concerts, amateur snow carving contest, folk school classes, ice fishing contest and spaghetti dinner. Downtown Ely. 218-365-7669
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
Feb. 8, Grand Rapids
The Legends of Country
Celebrate the catalogs of the Legendary Ladies of Country Music, spanning three decades of iconic songs from Patsy Cline, Loretta Lynn and Dolly Parton. Attend an unforgettable evening of live music featuring number one hits such as "I Will Always Love You," "Jolene," "Walking After Midnight," "I Fall to Pieces," "Coal Miner's Daughter," "Blue Kentucky Girl" and many more. Reif Center for the Performing Arts. 218-327-5780
Feb. 12-16, Duluth
Duluth Boat, Sports, Travel & RV Show & Northland Outdoors Deer Classic
See the latest gear and browse through the many boats, docks, lifts, RVs, fifth wheels and travel trailers when the great outdoors comes indoors. This event also features the best of hunting, fishing, camping and travel, along with great entertainment for the entire family. Duluth Entertainment Convention Center. 952-431-9630
Be sure to visit the Explore Minnesota Events Page to learn of other festivals and events!
|
