Guide to the Saint Paul Winter Carnival

With so many snow-filled activities, it can be hard to keep track of when things are happening at the Saint Paul Winter Carnival.

Use this guide to maximize your fun at the Twin Cities’ finest winter celebration on Jan. 26 - Feb. 5, 2023.

close-up of a gold unicorn statue at Saint Paul Winter Carnival

Who

The Winter Carnival is for everyone. And we mean everyone — young, old, short, tall, locals and visitors alike.

What

The 137th edition of Saint Paul's jam-packed winter extravaganza, that’s what. 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. There's so many great ways to experience the Coolest Celebration on Earth. We are thrilled to welcome back the FREE Ice Sculpture Park back to Rice Park this year, along with some new events plus those you have come to know and love.

WINTER CARNIVAL DATES: Jan. 26 - Feb. 5, 2023

EVENTS LEADING UP TO THE WINTER CARNIVAL

(For a full listing of events by day and details, check the calendar):

Jan. 1 - Feb. 5
  • Ice Fishing Tournament (Participate digitally through the FishDonkey Mobile App. Find out how)
Jan. 6 - Jan. 27
  • Beard Growing Competition
Jan. 26 – Feb. 5

Thursday, Jan. 26

  • First Day of Winter Carnival
  • Warming House opens
  • 2023 Multi-Block Ice Carving Competition
  • Vocal Interpretations Prelims

Friday, Jan. 27

Saturday, Jan. 28

  • Winter Carnival Puzzle Contest
  • 2023 Saintly City Cat Show
  • Vulcan Reveal
  • Orchid Show, through Sunday, Jan. 29 (Marjorie McNeely Conservatory)
  • King Boreas Grande Day Parade presented by Priority Courier Experts
  • Rock the Palace to celebrate the return of King Boreas
  • Saintly City Cat Show, through Sunday, Jan. 30

Sunday, Jan. 29

  • Fire & Ice Winter Run (Minnesota State Fairgrounds)
  • 2023 Individual Block Ice Carving Competition, Artist & Professional Divisions
  • Hot & Cool Classics Concert
  • Vocal Interpretations Finals

Monday Jan. 30 through Thursday Feb. 2

  • Jan 31: Frozen Family Fun Night, presented by Priority Courier Experts
  • Through Feb 5: Gangsters and Ghosts Walking Tours with CynCity Tours

Friday, Feb. 3

  • Winter Carnival's Day of Good
  • Saint Paul Bouncing Team Tryouts

Saturday, Feb 4

  • Union Depot’s Doggie Depot
  • Berners in the Park
  • Kids & Family Day, presented by Priority Courier Experts
  • Vulcan Victory Torchlight Parade presented Priority Courier Experts
  • The overthrow of King Boreas
  • Vulcan Victory Dance (InterContinental Saint Paul Riverfront)
  • Vulcan vs. The Royal Guard Hockey Classic (Doug Woog Arena)

Winter Carnival Royalty

Royalty events leading up to Winter Carnival

Jan. 5: Past Princess Soiree - A Night to Sparkle

Jan. 7: 2023 Junior Royalty

Jan. 11: Klondike Kate Contest

Jan. 12: Queen of Snows Candidate Dinner

Jan. 19: 2023 Senior Royalty Coronation

Jan. 20: Fire & Ice Dinner

Jan. 21: The Royal Fashion Show

Jan. 22: Annual Queens' Tea

Where

Winter Carnival events take place at a variety of locations in Saint Paul. See the full event calendar for locations.

Why

It’s kind of a long story, actually, but it began in 1886 in response to a few misguided East Coast reporters who called Minnesota "another Siberia, unfit for human habitation." You can read the full legend surrounding our mid-winter festival here or, if you've got an hour, check out TPT's episode — The Legendary Winter Saint Paul Winter Carnival.

How

Most Winter Carnival events are free unless otherwise noted. Buy a collector’s button when they become available online or at local retailers. Your button also gives you a chance to register for great prizes and grants exclusive coupons to local businesses.

We can’t wait to see how much fun you’re having at Winter Carnival. Share with us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter using the hashtag #MYSAINTPAUL and #WinterCarnival.

Enter to Win a Winter Carnival Prize package valued at $1250!

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