8 Ways To Embrace Winter in Minnesota

When the mercury goes down, Minnesota shines. Swimming and paddling the Land of 10,000 Lakes in summer and fall is great, but skating across them and seeing public art installations built on their frozen waters is what Minnesota is made for.

Is it possible to take in all of the state? There are a lot of great events and adventures to start. A warm coat and a sturdy pair of boots are all that's needed. With a little preparation, you will be able to enjoy everything Minnesota has to offer.

1. Take a selfie at the Art Shanty Projects.

The photo was taken by Free Truth Media.

The Art Shanty Projects are a four- weekend public art event in Minneapolis. Pop-up ice fishing villages inspired the public art fest.

Visitors can enjoy interactive sculptures and installations created by local artists, as well as live music, yoga sessions, and other events. There is a $10-$20 suggested donation for the event, which will start in January.

2. Warm up to winter at Ice Fest.

Are you a fan of cross-country skiing? During the Ice Fest in January, you can do that and more. There are more unique and creative opportunities such as snow golf and an ice slide than there are traditional offerings.

Think pancake breakfasts and horse-drawn sleigh rides.

3. Enjoy winter’s simple pleasures.

The photo was taken in Cook County.

In the cold months of the year, hygge refers to the feeling of warmth and comfort that comes from enjoying life's simple pleasures. There is a festival on the shores of Lake Superior. Winter musts include vintage snowmobile rides and mulled wine.

The Waseca Sleigh & Cutter Festival is fun for all ages and takes place in February.

4. Fish and sip in an ice bar.

While surrounded by ice is the best way to enjoy a hot toddy. There is a bar at the Lake of the Woods.

Don't expect to shiver. The structure is built with metal framing and foam insulation and has a menu of soups, hot sandwiches, and pizzas to keep you warm. Drop a line through one of the trap doors and you'll be fishing. How is that for winter?

5. Take part in the “coolest celebration on Earth.”

The Great Northern is a celebration of winter creativity that runs from January 25 to February 5. There was a winter spread across Minneapolis and St.Paul.

The Saint Paul Winter Carnival includes skijoring, fat-bike races, public art installations, food and drinks, and performances by local, national, and international music acts. The fun starts on January 26.

6. Drop a line at the Jaycees Ice Fishing Extravaganza.

This is the best time to try ice fishing. Each January, the Jaycees hold a $150,000 ice fishing bonanza. The proceeds go to Confidence Learning Center.

There are over $150,000 in cash and prizes to be won but the event is all about having fun. It draws participants from all over the country and the world to Hole in the Day Bay.

7. Watch (or join!) the longest sled-dog race in the continental U.S.

The longest sled-dog race in the United States has been held in Northern Minnesota. Thousands of spectators from across the country watch the John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon every January. There is a race for the Iditarod.

The race begins and ends at Billy's Bar in Duluth. The race dates are in January.

8. Discover an icy oasis.

Social-ICE is a happening that takes place in downtown Rochester during the winter season. Each night there will be themed ice bars with their own signature drink and ice sculptures. The public is free to attend. The Social-ICE FAM JAM is a family friendly event that features ice cream instead of booze and takes place before the last night of the main shindig.

It's obvious now, but in Minnesota it's wintertime for the bears. Go outside and embrace the cold.