Guide to the Saint Paul Winter Carnival
The Saint Paul Winter Carnival welcomes an incredible lineup of events for visitors to experience around the Capital City.
Use this guide to maximize your fun at the Twin Cities’ finest winter celebration on January 28-February 7, 2027.
The Coolest Celebration on Earth
We know a thing or two about the cold here in Minnesota and the Winter Carnival showcases our favorite season in all of its glory. Enjoy ice sculptures in Rice Park, a parade on Grand Avenue, snow-centric activities, live music performances, and more!
Celebrating 140 Years!
The Winter Carnival is the oldest winter festival in the United States. Dating back to 1886, this seasonal bash was kindled by Eastern newspaper correspondents that compared the Capital City to "another Siberia, unfit for human habitation."
Retaliating against these claims, business owners rallied together to create a city-wide wintertime festival to showcase the beauty of Minnesota winters.
Winter Carnival Events
Discover the coolest way to partake in the fun from lively parades and a royal coronation to ice sculptures and animals galore. Browse some of the carnival's can't miss gatherings below, or head to the Winter Carnival website to view the complete schedule of events during this 10-day celebration.
Day of Doing Good
January 30
Saint Paul College
Join the Legend Characters to come together as one and support Saint Paul College's community initiatives during the Winter Carnival's Day of Doing Good. Donate non-perishable food items, hygiene products, cozy winter gear, and more for community members in need.
Memorabilia Display
Through February 1, 2026
Corner of Grand Avenue & Victoria Street
Presented by Tommy Barret and the Grand Avenue Business Association featuring historic pieces from Wescott Station Antiques that showcase the Winter Carnival through the years.
Ice Sculpture Park
January 28-February 7, 2027
Rice Park
Enjoy one-of-a-kind creations crafted by talented ice sculptors during all 10 days of the festival.
King Boreas’ Grande Day Parade
January 24, 2026
Grand Avenue
Beginning at Dale Avenue and ending near Lexington, this exciting march will feature dozens of bands, seasonal floats, and the newly crowned King Boreas and his Royal Family.
Frozen Family Fun Night
Landmark Center
The snow never bothered us anyway! Enjoy an evening with the Winter Carnival Legend Characters and Frozen Characters for meet and greets, story time, and a Frozen sing-along, and snow-themed activities
Doggie Depot
Union Depot
Start the day with dog yoga, shop local pet vendors, and watch the crowning of the 2026 Saint Paul Winter Carnival Canine King & Queen.
Jigsaw Puzzle Competition
February 7, 2027
Union Depot
Connect with hundreds of puzzle enthusiasts from around the country and partake in a series of riveting competitions.
Winter Carnival Buttons
Support Local & Celebrate Saint Paul's Story
The four button designs nod to the rich history of Saint Paul by showcasing iconic Capital City landmarks and traditions that have with withstood the test of time. The designs were created by Artist Randall Peterson who captured these iconic scenes through pointillism, a drawing technique that uses many small, distinct dots rather than lines to create images.
Your purchase of a button also provides you with a chance to win great prizes and grants you access to exclusive coupons to Saint Paul businesses. Plus, 2026 Winter Carnival Button purchasers can win an extra $5,000 in the Pioneer Press Treasure Hunt if they find the medallion.
Parking & Transportation
Getting There
From January 22-31, 2026, enjoy FREE Metro Transit passes for transportation to and from the Saint Paul Winter Carnival events.
Free Transit Passes
Driving into the city? Discover the most convenient locations to park your vehicle to maximize your winter fun
Parking Info
Fuel Up
More Winter Fun
The Ultimate Guide to Ice Castles
Experience the ultimate winter wonderland! This awe-inspiring seasonal phenomenon features decorated caverns, ice and snow sculptures, a frosty ice bar, and more!
Get Outside This Winter
Embrace the spirit of the winter through a collection of outdoor sports and activities that are sure to add some thrill to this chilly season.
Holiday Events
Looking for some fresh winter traditions to brighten up the season? Saint Paul is ready to help you celebrate.
