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Travel
Events in Minnesota
Chris Rand
| October 8, 2024 | 4 Minute Read
Adam Grason
The North Star State offers a dazzling array of festivals, celebrations, and unique experiences that showcase its rich culture, natural beauty, and warm hospitality. Whether you're a foodie, an outdoor enthusiast, or a culture vulture, there's something for everyone in this winter wonderland.
Here, we’ve assembled a list of must-attend events that will make your Minnesota adventure unforgettable. From Oktoberfest celebrations to ice carving contests, and from sled dog races to craft beer festivals, these events capture the essence of Minnesota's diverse and dynamic spirit.
Calendar of Events
Keep your calendar full with these can’t-miss activities in Minnesota.
Oct. 4‒5 | SAINT PAUL
Celebrate Bavarian culture in the heart of Saint Paul. Enjoy authentic German food, beer and live music at this two-day festival.
Oct. 12 | MINNEAPOLIS
Sample craft beers from over 100 breweries at this outdoor festival in Minneapolis. Hosted by the Minnesota Craft Brewers Guild, it's a perfect way to enjoy the crisp fall weather while tasting some of Minnesota's best brews.
Oct. 12 | MINNEAPOLIS
Experience Native American culture at this festival in Minneapolis. Enjoy traditional music, dance performances and learn about indigenous history and environmental stewardship.
Oct. 12‒14 | WINONA
Immerse yourself in the art of storytelling at this three-day event in Winona. Listen to tales from master storytellers and participate in workshops to hone your own narrative skills.
Oct. 19 | SAINT PAUL
Bookworms unite at this celebration of literature in Saint Paul. Meet authors, attend readings and browse a wide selection of books from local and national publishers.
Oct. 26 | BLOOMINGTON
Learn about these fascinating nocturnal creatures at this educational event in Bloomington. Attend lectures, see live bats up close and participate in family-friendly activities.
Nov. 2 | MINNESTRISTA
Sip on craft beers from local and regional breweries in Minnetrista. This festival also features live music and food trucks for a complete sensory experience.
Nov. 8-10 | MINNEAPOLIS
Celebrate pop culture at this convention featuring celebrity guests, cosplay contests and vendor booths. It's a paradise for fans of comics, movies, and TV shows.
Nov. 9 | ISANTI
Get into the holiday spirit at this charming small-town market. Browse handcrafted gifts, enjoy festive treats, and experience the warmth of a traditional Minnesotan Christmas celebration.
Nov. 16 | SAINT PAUL
Immerse yourself in holiday cheer at the heart of the capital city. This bustling market features local artisans, seasonal entertainment, and a magical atmosphere that captures the essence of a Minnesota winter.
Nov. 23 | REDWING
Discover unique gifts and holiday treasures in this picturesque Minnesota river town. Enjoy live music, festive food and the quaint charm of Red Wing's historic downtown as it’s decked out for the holiday season.
Nov. 23 – Dec. 28 | DULUTH
Experience America's largest free walk-through lighting display in Duluth. Stroll through a winter wonderland of over 5 million lights and enjoy free hot cocoa and cookies.
Nov. 29 – Dec. 1, Dec. 6-8, Dec. 13-15, Dec. 20-22 | SAINT PAUL
For four weekends in December, transport yourself to a traditional European holiday market in St. Paul. Shop for unique gifts, enjoy authentic food and drinks and soak up the festive atmosphere.
Dec. 19-20 | SAINT PAUL
Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra Holiday Concert: Handel’s Messiah
Experience the magic of the holidays with this beloved classical masterpiece. Enjoy a festive performance with top vocalists and performers that's perfect for the whole family.
Dec. 20, 2024 – Jan. 7, 2025 | SAINT PAUL
Winter Walk at the Bell Museum
Embark on a virtual journey through Minnesota's winter landscape without leaving the museum. Follow snowflake markers on the floor to discover seasonal exhibits featuring glaciers, birds, and even the Northern Lights.
Dec. 31 | MINNEAPOLIS
The Crystal Ball New Year’s Eve
Ring in the New Year at Minneapolis's most glamorous party, held on the 50th floor of the IDS Center. Enjoy breathtaking 360° city views, four rooms of entertainment, and a night of unforgettable celebration.
Jan. 18 – Feb. 9 | MINNEAPOLIS
Experience a unique blend of art and Minnesota lake culture on frozen Lake Harriet. Artists create interactive installations in ice fishing houses, inviting visitors to explore and engage.
Jan. 22‒26 | MINNEAPOLIS
U.S. Pond Hockey Championships
Experience the quintessential Minnesota winter sport on Lake Nokomis in Minneapolis. Watch or participate as teams from across the country compete for the coveted Golden Shovel in this exhilarating outdoor hockey tournament.
Jan. 23 – Feb. 2 | MINNEAPOLIS & SAINT PAUL
Embrace winter with this 10-day celebration of art, food, and outdoor activities. Events are held throughout the Twin Cities, showcasing the best of Minnesota's cold-weather culture.
Jan. 25 | DULUTH
John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon
Witness the excitement of the longest sled dog race in the lower 48 states. Teams of mushers and dogs race from Duluth along the North Shore of Lake Superior.
Jan. 26 | SAINT PAUL
Enjoy a free concert featuring transportation-themed classical pieces in the stunning Landmark Center Cortile. The symphony performs works inspired by planes, trains and automobiles, including pieces by Walton, Strauss, Holland and Converse.
Feb. 1‒2 | MINNEAPOLIS
City of Lakes Loppet Winter Festival
Experience Minnesota's winter wonderland at an event featuring cross-country skiing, fat biking, skijoring, and snowshoeing competitions. Don't miss the magical Luminary Loppet on Lake of the Isles, a highlight of this beloved winter festival.
Feb. 22 | MINNEAPOLIS & SAINT PAUL
Embrace the cold with Minnesota's largest winter beer festival at the State Fair Midway. Sample hundreds of craft beers, ciders and seltzers from local and regional breweries while enjoying live music and tasty bites from food trucks.