Winter Events

Snow and cold doesn't slow us down. There are still plenty of winter activities and events keeping us busy in Minneapolis.

Last Updated: 10/6/25

December 4 to January 26, 2026

American Swedish Insitute Exhibit: Tomte Tales: Legends of Winter

Tis the season to embrace the fantastical. Traverse the castle into a magical realm led by Tomte and all his friends. It’s time to hear his side of the story. The American Swedish Institute’s annual Holiday Experience takes visitors on a journey that explores the Legends of Winter. Explore the Turnblad Mansion with Tomte to discover iconic holiday characters, each with their own spectacular space.

This event is currently underway
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December 5 to December 21

Minneapolis Christkindl Market

The Minneapolis Christkindl Market is a celebration for all ages! Come enjoy on five weekends in November and December. As the holiday season approaches, there’s no better way to embrace the festive spirit than by visiting the Minneapolis Christkindl Market. Inspired by traditional European Christmas markets, this outdoor wonderland transports you to a world of twinkling lights, alpine style wooden huts, and the cozy aroma of mulled wine. Whether you’re looking for unique, handcrafted gifts…

There are future dates for this event and it is currently underway
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December 4

Vinterfest 2025

Join us for Vinterfest at Norway House—a cozy celebration of Nordic winter traditions filled with friends, food, music, and Gingerbread Wonderland! The evening also features our Going Viking Awards—honoring inspiring individuals who embody the adventurous and pioneering spirit of the North. Come share in the warmth, community, and joy of this special night! More details to come.

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December 19

Winter Solstice at the American Swedish Institute

Mark the shortest day and longest night of the year with ASI’s signature Winter Solstice Celebration. This fan favorite features arts & crafts, music, and reindeer! FIKA Café will serve a special festival menu with small plates and warm glögg (Swedish mulled wine). The ASI Museum Store and Jul Shop will also be open late for all your last-minute gift needs! Winter Solstice is a timed entry event, visit the festival page to learn more about the activities, food and more!

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January 8, 2026 to March 1, 2026

Minneapolis Institute of Ice

Welcome to the Minneapolis Institute of Ice, where admission is always free(ze). Minnesotans love their winters, and Mia loves sharing our collection. We’ve combined the best of both in an event designed to embrace the season—showing incredible works of art outdoors while you show off your winter layering skills. Tag @artsmia and #MiaIce to share your photos of the frozen masterpieces! Minneapolis Institute of Ice will be on view during museum hours until it melts. Family-friendly, free; no…

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January 10, 2026 to January 18, 2026

MN Orchestra: Nordic Soundscapes Festival

A celebration of hygge and Scandinavian stories: enter a warm, comfortable and welcoming space, designed for exploring the sounds of Nordic countries alongside your favorite winter escapes. A glass of glögg, a candinavian spirit, a taste of nostalgia and an invitation to togetherness are prepared—just for you—at your musical home, Orchestra Hall.

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January 10, 2026

Northrup King Nights

Northrup King Nights is where creativity and community come alive! This evening celebration is your chance to experience the vibrant energy of our iconic building and the incredible talents of the artists within. From beautiful galleries and fun boutiques to one-of-a-kind local businesses, this is your gateway to discovering jewelry, fine art, home goods, wearables, wellness items, sculpture, photography, and so much more. Whether you're an art enthusiast, a curious explorer, or just looking…

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January 23, 2026 to January 25, 2026

U.S. Pond Hockey Championships

Hockey. The way nature intended. Outdoors in the crisp winter air, skate blades gliding on the fresh ice below, with the sounds of clacking sticks and the smell of grilling bratwurst filling the air.

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January 28, 2026 to February 1, 2026

The Great Northern Festival

The Great Northern's annual winter festival invites people to change their perspective on the coldest months of the year. The five-day festival includes world premiere performances, food events, art, panels and speakers, films, regional craft, commissioned writing, storytelling, and outdoor activations - including the wildly popular Sauna Village.

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January 24, 2026

Lake Harriet Winter Kite Festival

The Winter Kite Festival is a beautiful festival that fills the sky with colorful kites, offers winter activities for all, delicious local food trucks and free s’mores by the fire to warm up throughout the day.

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February 7, 2026

Luminary Loppet

Come out to Lake of the Isles and enjoy the Luminary Loppet where you can walk or cross country ski on the candlelit trail. Experience 1,200 luminaries lining the trail with unique ice features and much more – all in the heart of Uptown. Find refreshments such as hot cocoa and s’mores along the lake as you take in the beauty of the luminaries. Food trucks, Utepils Brewing beer, and music are located at the Luminary Party.

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February 26, 2026

Lunar New Year with the Minnesota Orchestra

The Minnesota Orchestra and a stunning array of guest artists celebrate the beginning of the Year of the Horse. The concert explores themes of family, tradition and unity through vibrant orchestral music and some extra special guests.

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February 27, 2026 to March 1, 2026

Disney on Ice: Road Trip Adventures

Hit the road to adventure when Disney On Ice presents Road Trip Adventures skates into Target Center Feb. 27 – Mar. 1! See Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Goofy and stars from Aladdin, Moana, Frozen, The Lion King, Toy Story 4, and more. Tickets go on sale to the public on Tuesday, August 19 at 10am! Check out the Target Center Know Before You Go for our latest policies before your visit! Please note that only small clutches or wallets 5"x9" or smaller are allowed into the arena.

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