Warm Up Winter Days with 9 Red-Hot Twin Cities/Rochester Events

Like other Minnesotans, our Springs Twin Cities and Springs Rochester residents are a hardy bunch. No one allows the cold, snowy winter weather to interfere with an active social calendar. 

Here are some upcoming local events that we're excited about. Are any of these on your radar?

1. Saint Paul Winter Carnival
Thursday, January 28 - Sunday, February 7

More than a quarter of a million visitors attend this annual Twin Cities event, now in its 128th year. Festivities include the Beer Dabbler, Disc Golf Ice Bowl, and not one but three parades. Most events are free, with others charging only a nominal fee.

2.  Rochester WinterFest XIV
Thursday, January 28 - Sunday, February 14

With more than 30 events and activities, WinterFest promotes wintertime fun for all ages while raising awareness and funds for area nonprofit organizations. Events range from skiing, sledding and skating at Quarry Hill Nature Center’s Ski by Candlelight and BaconFest to a community-wide volunteer fair and you ice fishing contest.

3. The Price is Right LIVE!
Thursday, February 4 - Saturday, February 6
Mystic Lake Casino Hotel, Prior Lake

Can't make it to Hollywood? The show will come to you! "The Price is Right LIVE!" is the road version of the long-running game show that includes favorite games like Plinko, Cliffhanger and Showcase Showdown. No need to go across the country, Mystic Lake Casino is just 10 minutes from Springs at Egan Drive. Tickets are $19 and showtimes are 8 p.m. – 10 p.m. each evening.

4. SocialICE
Thursday, February 18 - Saturday, February 20
Peace Plaza, Rochester

This unique event is centered around seven 12-foot themed ice bars. Each one will be serving a signature drink, while special lighting effects and live DJs add to the festive atmosphere. Admission is free to all visitors.

5. Red Bull Snow Boundaries
Saturday, February 20
ERXMotor Park, Elk River

Cheer on the daredevil racers competing for the ultimate snowmobiling championship at Red Bull Snow Boundaries. The 13-mile course is studded with natural and man-made challenges such as swamps, vertical climbs and tight curves. Watch the race from one of several spectator areas along the course.

6. Ice Castles
Through March 5
17970 E Miller Parkway, Eden Prairie 

Take a journey through the awe-inspiring Eden Prairie Ice Castles. In addition to the scenery — thousands of icicles and colorful LED lights — you’ll find treats and warm beverages, along with professional fire performances, star watch parties and “Ice princesses” on select days. This event is ideal for children as well as adults looking to get outdoors.

7. Blimp: Tribute to Led Zeppelin
Saturday, February 27
State Theater, Minneapolis

Enjoy the music of legendary rock band Led Zeppelin as performed by Blimp, whose members have participated in tributes to the Beatles, Janis Joplin and other classic rock favorites. The show begins at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $22 in advance and $25 at the door.

8. Red Bull Crashed Ice Championship
February 26-27, 2016
Cathedral of Saint Paul

Saint Paul is hosting the finale of this four-city world tournament. Ice cross downhill is a thrilling combination of skating and skiing that involves racing down a long track featuring jumps, hairpin curves and other obstacles. Cheer on Minnesota native Cameron Naasz as he looks to clinch his first championship after coming close the last two years.

9. Bruce Springsteen & the E Street Band
Monday, February 29
Xcel Energy Center, Saint Paul

Iconic rocker Bruce Springsteen brings his high-energy show to the Twin Cities to celebrate the release of "The Ties that Bind: The River Collection," a multimedia set that pays tribute to Springsteen's classic 1980 album. Showtime is 7:30 p.m. and tickets range from $57.50 - $102.50.

Do you have a favorite winter activity or event? Let us know in the comments!