Ely Winter Festival

Step back in time at this immersive fur trade reenactment, where over 1,000 costumed participants from across North America bring 1798 to life on a sprawling 160-acre historic site. Explore meticulously reconstructed buildings like the Northwest Company Fur Post, watch blackpowder and tomahawk competitions, enjoy authentic frontier food, and experience traditional music and crafts during the first full weekend in August. Camp on-site and take advantage of discounted family day passes to make this living history adventure your own.

Bundle up and dive into Minnesota's most spirited celebration of the frosty months. The Saint Paul Winter Carnival fills the season with over 75 happenings that draw locals and visitors into the heart of winter rather than hiding from it. What started generations ago has grown into America's largest festival of its kind, weaving together neighborhood pride, shared traditions, and the kind of togetherness that only happens when everyone embraces the cold together. The event has become woven into Saint Paul's identity, transforming the quieter winter days into something worth stepping outside for.

Step back into colonial America during Minnesota's premier living history event, held every first weekend in October on Big Island. Over 1,500 authentically costumed reenactors bring the fur trade era to life across 250+ period shelters, while visitors explore immersive demonstrations in everything from blackpowder shooting to frontier crafts. It's a celebration packed with music, theater, storytelling, and hearty colonial fare—perfect for families and history enthusiasts alike.

Experience Minnesota's most iconic summer tradition where over a million visitors gather for twelve days of pure fun. Dig into deep-fried everything, catch live music from headlining acts nightly, ride classic carnival attractions, and marvel at giant vegetables and prize-winning livestock—it's wonderfully weird and unapologetically Minnesotan. The celebration wraps up Labor Day weekend at the State Fairgrounds.

The City of Lakes Loppet is a 35km cross-country ski race featuring the beautiful trails and lakes of the Twin Cities. Join us on the first weekend in February for this celebration of winter in Minnesota!

Experience the magic of Minneapolis' most dazzling holiday celebration—a glittering 30-minute parade that lights up Nicollet Mall each night starting the Friday after Thanksgiving. Marvel at enchanted floats, beloved storybook characters, marching bands, and musical groups as they transform the downtown streets into a winter wonderland. Santa and his brilliantly illuminated sleigh bring the festive finale to this beloved Twin Cities tradition.

Lumberjack Days is Stillwater's annual summer celebration. Most of the festivities are held in Lowell Park adjacent to the beautiful St. Croix River in historic downtown Stillwater. There is no admission fee. National-act concerts and lumberjack shows along with one of the largest musically choreographed fireworks shows in the United States are just a sample of the FREE entertainment waiting for you at Lumberjack Days 06.

Bundle up and experience Minnesota's most electrifying winter celebration as over 800,000 people gather to honor the magic of frozen lakes and snowy streets. Catch the dazzling ice sculpture showcase, thrilling winter sports competitions, live music performances, spectacular fireworks reflecting off icy landscapes, and neighborhood bonfire gatherings that bring communities together. It's the perfect excuse to embrace the season and create unforgettable memories with family and friends.

Experience one of the Midwest's premier art celebrations, where 75 hand-selected artists showcase original work across jewelry, sculpture, painting, ceramics, glass, photography, and more. Held annually on the University of Northern Iowa campus at the corner of College and 23rd Streets, this juried festival has earned recognition as one of the nation's top fine arts shows. Spend a summer weekend surrounded by exceptional craftsmanship and creative talent in a shaded, welcoming outdoor setting.

Every August, the Iowa State Fairgrounds transform into a vibrant celebration of agriculture, food, and fun. Expect classic carnival rides, award-winning livestock competitions, and some of the best deep-fried fair food you'll find anywhere. It's where Iowans gather to honor their farming heritage while creating unforgettable summer memories.

Ring in the New Year with your whole crew at Security National Bank's FunFest—where one family ticket unlocks unlimited fun across multiple Sioux City locations. Glide on ice skates, ride in horse-drawn carriages, bounce on inflatables, catch a movie, and tackle everything from basketball to arts and crafts. It's the perfect way to kick off January together without breaking the bank.