Winter in Minneapolis is a magical celebration of resilience, creativity, and community. As the snow blankets the city, residents and visitors alike embrace the cold with a warm spirit, transforming the frostiest months into a season of joy. From dazzling ice mazes and lively outdoor festivals to cozy sauna retreats and vibrant art installations, Minneapolis thrives on its wintry charm. The city becomes a playground for all, where skating rinks glisten, firepits crackle, and innovative dining experiences highlight the region's culinary ingenuity.
Winter here is not just endured—it's celebrated as a testament to the unique beauty and vibrant culture of the North. Minneapolis comes alive in January with winter festivals celebrating the cold season in unique and exciting ways.
Here are some standout events to enjoy during the winter season in the city:
Holidazzle Winter Festival (december 18th Through Sunday, December 22nd, 2024)
Holidazzle is a beloved holiday tradition in Minneapolis, bringing festive cheer to Loring Park during the winter season. The 2024 Holidazzle Festival will be at Nicollet Mall between 6th and 11th Streets will host this vibrant holiday celebration. Known for its sparkling lights, family-friendly activities, and warm community spirit, the event offers something for everyone.
Visitors can enjoy local artisan markets, delicious seasonal foods, and interactive attractions, such as the colorful carousel and illuminated displays. A highlight for many is the outdoor skating rink, where guests can glide under twinkling lights for free. Holidazzle also features live music, movie nights, and visits from Santa, making it a must-visit for holiday enthusiasts of all ages.
Winter SKOLstice Winter Festival (Part of the Minnesota Ice Festival)
This celebration of Minnesota's winter season integrates cultural events, sports, and interactive exhibits across 94 days, beginning in early January. Visitors can experience the festive spirit at the Vikings practice facility with activities and themed weekends.
Winter SKOLstice is open now through February 25th but they are closed January 1-4. Every day they have free outdoor ice skating (unless you don't have your own skates, that's $5 per pair). Hours are Monday-Wednesday 4-9pm, Thursday-Saturday 4-10pm, and Sunday 3-10pm.
The Great Northern Festival (january 23 – February 2, 2025)
We are excited for the Great Northern Festival in 2025! This iconic festival spans Minneapolis and St. Paul, offering more than 50 events that combine art, music, dining, and outdoor activities. The Great Northern Festival is focused on climate change and climate action. This event celebrates all the cold weather activities that Minnesota has to offer. See the full line up of events HERE.
Highlights Include:
- Sauna Village: Pop-up saunas provide a cozy retreat for visitors.
- Art Installations and Performances: Including Indigenous musician Jeremy Dutcher's performance and engaging climate-themed discussions.
- Outdoor Adventures: Fat tire biking, guided nature walks, and luminary-lit trails.
- Culinary Experiences: Ice bars, pop-up food halls, and dinners featuring seasonal menus. The festival also emphasizes environmental awareness through its Climate Solution Series, fostering discussions about sustainability and climate action.
The Minnesota Ice Festival (january 10 – February 16, 2025)
The Minnesota Ice Festival in 2025 will be held at TCO Stadium in Eagan, MN. We highly recommend this festival for families! This is perfect for families and thrill-seekers alike. There are tickets available now with up to a 30% discount for pre-sales. This year they are celebrating winter with several weeks of winter wonderful activities including some of the local favorites!
Attractions Include:
- The World's Largest Ice Maze.
- Ice Slides and Skating Rinks.
- The Carver Cup: A competitive ice sculpting event running from January 30 to February 1, 2025. With food trucks, ice bars, and a heated warming house, the festival ensures fun for all ages while showcasing creative winter art.
Make it a MINNēSTAY!
These wonderful winter festivals highlight the spirit of the North. Each visit offers the opportunity to embrace winter's magic through art, community, and adventure. Surprise the family for the weekend and make memories with MINNēSTAY. Our team is here to help you find the perfect place to spend a weekend away to enjoy the winter festivities in the Twin Cities. Contact Us today, or visit all our properties available on our website HERE.