Things to do in Minnesota: 6 things to do this weekend (Jan. 10-12)
MINNEAPOLIS (FOX 9) - Enjoy the winter weather by exploring ice structures, going stargazing at a dark sky festival, or trying a new winter sport at events across Minnesota this weekend.
Minnesota Ice Festival
- Vikings Lake, Eagan
- Jan. 10-Feb 16
- Ticketed event
The Minnesota Ice Festival opens this weekend! Explore the world’s largest ice maze, go ice skating, slide down an ice slide, grab a drink at the ice bar or a bite to eat from one of the food trucks. Select days will include live music and a chance to meet Victor the Viking.
The event is open on select days from Jan. 10 through Feb. 16. Tickets for adults are $24.99, children between 5-14 are $12.99 and children 4 and under are free. For more information, click here.
The Ice Palace
- Delano Central Park, Delano
- Jan. 11 through March, depending on weather conditions
- Ticketed event
This family-run attraction offers handcrafted ice sculptures and tunnels, stunning lights and interactive ice experiences, character meet and greets, kiddie sled hills, fire performances, food options and more.
The official opening date is set for Saturday, Jan. 11 and will be open on Thursday and Fridays from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., and Saturday and Sundays from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. Tickets are currently on sale with general admission for adults at $24.38 and children at $16.
Taylor Swift Party
- Shakopee Brewhall, Shakopee
- Saturday, Jan. 11
- Free
The Shakopee Brewing Hall is hosting its Taylor Swift Party for a second year! The family-friendly festivities start at 11 a.m., featuring a Taylor Swing coloring contest, temporary tattoos and a playlist of the artist’s greatest hits.
Starting at 5 p.m., the evening fun begins with a crowd-curated playlist, Taylor Swift lyric trivia, friendship bracelet trading, a photo booth and more. Regular and non-alcoholic beverages will be available. Admission is free, and seating is first-come, first-serve. For more information, click here.
Ely Dark Sky Festival
- Ely, Minnesota
- Jan. 10-11
- Some events require a fee, others are free
The Ely Dark Sky Festival includes both indoor and outdoor events, focusing on astronomy, gastrophotography, winter recreation, and more. Attend a wolf howling safari, go dog sledding at night, try snowshoeing or learn more about the starry sky during a variety of events this weekend.
The events take place at various locations on Friday and Saturday. Some events are free while others require a fee. For more information, click here.
Sandstone Ice Climbing Festival
- Robinson Quarry Ice Park, Sandstone
- Jan. 10-12
- Free
If you've ever wanted to try ice climbing, this event is for you. The Sandstone Ice Climbing Festival celebrates the winter sport with those around the Midwest and Canada. If you've never been ice climbing, the festival offers gear rental and a clinic to learn more about the sport. After you're done climbing, you can warm up by a bonfire or enjoy a beverage from a local Minnesota brewery.
The event is free and open to the public, but there is a fee for the climbing clinics. To learn more about the Sandstone Ice Festival, click here.
ISOC Snocross Nationals
- Canterbury Park, Shakopee
- Jan. 10-11
- Ticketed event
The ISOC Snocross Nationals are happening this weekend at Canterbury Park. Watch the snowmobilers' big-air jumps and thrilling X-Game action during a fun-filled day. This event features both indoor and outdoor seating and plenty of food options.
General admission starts at $25, while children aged 5 and under are free. For more information, click here.