Fun Winter Activities & Events

Nobody does winter like Saint Paul. Bundle up and embrace the season in a variety of fun-filled frozen ways.

Group of people waving and having fun during winter in Saint Paul

In 1885, an East Coast reporter described Saint Paul as “another Siberia, unfit for human habitation.”

Rather than wallow in our cold misfortune, the people of Saint Paul decided to wear that designation as a badge of honor — the quote inspired the creation of the iconic Saint Paul Winter Carnival which is still celebrated in all of its frozen glory today.

Winter in Saint Paul really is something to see. In addition to the icy traditions of the outdoor Winter Carnival, strap on a pair of skates and find an outdoor rink or immerse yourself in the winter wonderland of lights in Rice Park, Mears Park and other locations.

Guide to the Saint Paul Winter Carnival

The Saint Paul Winter Carnival welcomes an incredible lineup of events for… Learn More

Saint Paul is Lit 🌟

Watch the Capital City light up the night from January 23 to February 1 with a nightly laser on the Landmark Center overlooking Rice Park, and festive teal light displays and specialty cocktails at participating restaurants for winter event goers.

Sponsored by: ECOLAB, Visit Saint Paul, Saint Paul Winter Carnival and Saint Paul Downtown Alliance

Helpful Holiday Planning

Guide to the Holidays in Saint Paul

Looking for some fresh winter holiday traditions to brighten up the season? Saint Paul is ready to help you celebrate. Learn More

Credit: The Midas Touch at Mancini's

New Year’s Eve in Saint Paul

We've rounded up a list to celebrate New Year's Eve in the Capital City this year. Whether you want an all-night party or one that gets you home well before midnight, Saint Paul has a New Year's celebration for you. Learn More

Saint Paul’s Best Holiday Light Displays

An insider guide on where to catch the most stunning light displays this holiday season. Learn More

Guide to the Annual Minnesota Hmong New Year

Each year, Saint Paul is home to Minnesota's Hmong New Year Celebration. Here's what you need to know about this lively event held at RiverCentre. Learn More

Pictured: GLOW Holiday Festival at CHS Field

Saint Paul is Your Place for Holiday Fun

Nestled along the Mississippi River, Saint Paul transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season, making it the perfect place to immerse yourself in the spirit of the festivities with an array of exciting events and shopping experiences. Happy Saint Paulidays! Learn More

The Ultimate Winter Destination

Bring your handwarmers and your layered clothing - it's winter in Saint Paul! Despite the cooler temperatures, the Capital City is alive with one-of-a-kind 'cool' events to take in winter in all its glory, warm drinks to heat you up from the inside out, kiddo-friendly winter activities to burn off some steam and so much more. Learn More