Things to do in Minnesota: 5 things to do this weekend (Jan. 24-26)
MINNEAPOLIS (FOX 9) - After a stretch of sub-zero temperatures earlier in the week, Minnesotans will have a weekend of much more bearable weather conditions to enjoy pond hockey, winter festivals and more.
US Pond Hockey Championships
- Lake Nokomis, Minneapolis
- Jan. 22-26
- Free
The nation's "premier outdoor pond hockey tournament" returns again to Lake Nokomis after almost canceling last year’s tournament due to warm weather, and unsafe ice conditions.
Organizers say they will be celebrating 20 years this season, with the tournament drawing top-tier talent that includes former Olympians, NHLers, and collegiate stars – all playing alongside passionate "Rink Rats" to offer the thrill of competitive pond hockey in the heart of the city.
The tournament is free for onlookers, and a schedule of events can be found here.
The Great Northern Winter Festival
- Various locations, Minneapolis and St. Paul
- Jan. 23 – Feb. 2
- Some events require a fee, others are free
Described as a celebration of Minnesota’s winter traditions, the Great Northern Winter Festival bills itself as an "invitation to outdoor enthusiasts, film buffs, art lovers, foodies, families, visitors, and community members to engage and get together during an isolating part of the year."
More than 50 events fill the 11-day event, including a Climate Solutions Series, a Sauna Village, and a launch party at Malcolm Yards in Minneapolis offering guided sauna sessions and fire pits.
The Great Northern and Minnesota Ice will also team up again to offer a 50-foot ice bar as well.
St. Paul Winter Carnival
- Jan. 23 – Feb. 2
- Various locations, St. Paul
- Some events require a fee, others are free
Since 1886, the St. Paul Winter Carnival, "continues to bring family-friendly events and community pride to St. Paul and the Twin Cities metro area."
Among the many scheduled events, visitors are encouraged to head to the Vulcan Snow Park to watch sculptors at work during the opening weekend (Jan. 24-26).
Located on the Minnesota State Fairgrounds, the Minnesota State Snow Sculpting Competition will feature three-person teams from throughout Minnesota that transform blocks of compacted snow into works of art using only hand tools.
Finished sculptures remain on display for the duration of the Winter Carnival and are individually lit after dark for a truly special viewing and photography experience.
The Snow Park at the Fair is open daily until 10 p.m. – entry and parking are free.
From contests to cat shows to ice fishing tournaments and more, a full list of events can be found here.
Klondike Derby Cutest Puppy Contest
- Saturday, Jan. 25
- Back Channel Brewing, Spring Park
- Free
The Lake Minnetonka Klondike Dog Derby is hosting its fifth annual Cutest Puppy Contest this weekend. The event takes place at Back Cahnnel Brewing Co. from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and is free to attend. However, you can purchase tickets to vote for the cutest puppy.
The Lake Minnetonka Klondike Dog Derby was canceled this year due to lack of snow, but organizers were still putting on some events, including the cutest puppy contest. You can learn more online here.
Lake Harriet Winter Kite Festival
- Jan. 25, 12–4 p.m.
- Lake Harriet, Minneapolis
- Free
Ever fly a kite in the middle of winter? Now is your chance.
Organized by the Linden Hills Neighborhood Council, the Lake Harriet Winter Kite Festival is said to offer food trucks, music, and more, with kites also available onsite for sale.
A free shuttle will be available to provide a fun ride for kids of all ages.
The Art Shanty Projects will also be on the lake to view at the same time, featuring 20 interactive art shanties to explore after delaying the opening weekend due to extreme cold.