The ‘Coolest Celebration On Earth’ Is Happening This Winter in Minnesota

Cabin Fever can be a real struggle during Minnesota's long winters. To shake off that feeling of being cooped up, I always try to find fun events and activities to participate in. One that I've added to my winter bucket list is the Saint Paul Winter Carnival.

It's actually the oldest winter carnival in the entire country and organizers have something new and exciting in store for this winter that will definitely make it one of the hottest events in Minnesota.

Get our free mobile app

The Saint Paul Winter Carnival dubbed the "Coolest Celebration on Earth" was created in 1886. 2024's 10-day celebration will start on Thursday, January 25th at 5:30 PM when organizers will “Light The Park” in Rice Park to kick off the 2024 Saint Paul Winter Carnival.

New Addition To Saint Paul Carnival Will Heat Things Up: 

This year the festival is adding a massive 120' x 50' warming tent that will transform Rice Park into a toasty haven for the entire duration of the Winter Carnival. Under the tent, guests will be able to enjoy live entertainment, games, and plenty of beverages.

ALSO READ: HOLIDAY TRAIN WILL MAKE 25 STOPS IN MINNESOTA THIS YEAR

I'm excited to take my family to see the ice and snow sculptures. I've heard that these sculptures are incredibly impressive. Check out the lineup of featured events below!

Thursday, January 25 to Sunday, January 28

Ice Carving Competitions: Talented artists will carve 300-pound blocks of ice during the first weekend of Carnival.

Friday, January 26 to Sunday, January 28

The Minnesota State Snow Sculpting Competition at the State Fairgrounds.

Saturday, January 27th 

The King Boreas Grande Day Parade is Saturday, January 27, a daytime procession featuring dozens of bands, and floats. The parade will begin at 2 p.m. and move its way from Smith Ave down West 7th Street, concluding in Rice Park.

On the same day as the parade is the Winter Carnival Jigsaw Puzzle Competition which has been moved to Union Depot to ensure it will be the largest jigsaw puzzle contest in the country.

Sunday, January 28

Fire & Ice Run/Walk at the State Fairgrounds.

Tuesday, January 30

Frozen Family Fun Night in the new Warming House at Rice Park. An evening of all things "Frozen" is planned with singalongs, storytime, and meet and greets with characters from the film.

Saturday, February 3

Winter Carnival Kids and Family Day at Landmark Center with live entertainment, arts and crafts, storytelling, and activities for all ages from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Find more info on the Carnival here.