Things to do in Minnesota: 4 things to do this weekend (Jan. 3-5)
Handlers sit with their Golden Retrievers on day two of the Crufts Dog Show at the National Exhibition Centre (NEC) in Birmingham. Picture date: Friday March 8, 2024. (Photo by Jacob King/PA Images via Getty Images)
MINNEAPOLIS (FOX 9) - Kick off the new year by meeting four-legged friends at a dog show, going ice fishing, or taking a candlelight walk at events happening in Minnesota this weekend.
Land O'Lakes Kennel Club Dog Show
- St. Paul RiverCentre
- Jan. 2-5
- Ticketed event
The 2025 Land O'Lakes Kennel Club Dog Show is happening at the St. Paul RiverCentre this weekend. You can meet a variety of dog and breed experts, attend various dog shows, or shop at more than a dozen booths at the Ringside Market.
The event takes place from Thursday to Sunday. Tickets cost $17 for adults and $9.50 for kids aged 5-12. There are additional discounts for military members, seniors, and a family of four ticket pack. For more information, click here.
Winter Carnival Ice Fishing Tournament
- Statewide
- Jan. 5-Feb 2
- Free
The St. Paul Winter Carnival statewide ice fishing tournament is kicking off this weekend! Anglers can participate in the month-long digital ice fishing tournament using the FishDonkey Mobile App. Prizes will be awarded to the top anglers in a variety of categories, including the grand slam of panfish, largest bass, largest northern pike, Winter Carnival super fan, and more.
To find more information on how to participate, visit the Winter Carnival website here.
Magic of Lights
- Vikings Lakes, Eagan
- Nov. 22-Jan. 5
- Ticketed event
This weekend is your last chance to experience the Magic of Lights at Vikings Lake. Drive through the festive display of over 2 million holiday lights, including a 200-foot-long tunnel, and classic holiday favorites like Reindeer Road, festive Elves, and more.
The event takes place Monday through Thursday from 5:30-9:30 p.m. and Friday through Saturday from 5:30-10 p.m. Tickets are priced per vehicle, which start at $25. Find more information online here.
Minnesota state parks luminary nights
- Minnesota state parks
- Jan. 3-Feb. 22
- Free, but vehicle permit required
Get ready to walk, snowshoe or ski by candlelight this winter at 19 different luminary events at Minnesota state parks and trails. There are 19 candlelight events at 17 different locations are planned between Jan. 3 and Feb. 22.
All candlelight trails are suitable for beginners of all ages. In some locations, snowshoes and skis can be rented or checked out at the ranger station or visitor center. At some locations, a ski pass is required. There is no participation fee, but a vehicle permit is required to enter Minnesota state parks and recreation areas.
To find a full list of luminary trails that will be aglow, click here.