Minnesota Events: Your Ultimate Guide to January 2026
Welcome to the ultimate guide to Minnesota events in January 2026! Whether you’re a local looking to embrace the winter season or a visitor eager to explore the Land of 10,000 Lakes, this comprehensive resource has you covered. January in Minnesota is a vibrant time, blending the magic of winter festivals, the thrill of professional sports, the energy of live concerts, and the warmth of community gatherings. From the iconic Saint Paul Winter Carnival to NBA and NHL games at premier venues, there’s something for everyone. This guide consolidates all major events across Minneapolis, Saint Paul, St. Cloud, and beyond, offering detailed schedules, planning tips, and insider insights to make your winter adventure unforgettable.
Why January 2026? Minnesota transforms into a winter wonderland in January, with snow-dusted landscapes and a packed event calendar. Expect temperatures between 0°F and 25°F, perfect for outdoor festivals and cozy indoor activities. Whether you’re cheering at a Timberwolves game or marveling at snow sculptures, January is the ideal time to experience Minnesota’s unique blend of culture, community, and excitement.
Major Festivals and Celebrations
Minnesota’s winter festivals are a highlight of January, showcasing the state’s ability to embrace its chilly climate with creativity and enthusiasm. These events draw thousands of visitors and locals alike, offering a mix of outdoor and indoor activities that celebrate the season.
Saint Paul Winter Carnival
Dates: January 22 – February 1, 2026
Location: Rice Park and Minnesota State Fairgrounds, Saint Paul, MN
Time: Varies by event
Category: Festival
Details: Celebrating its 140th year in 2026, the Saint Paul Winter Carnival is Minnesota’s oldest and most iconic winter festival, often dubbed “The Coolest Celebration on Earth.” Held across Rice Park and the Minnesota State Fairgrounds, this 11-day event features over 75 activities, including snow and ice sculpting, the Grand Day Parade, the Torchlight Parade, and the Vulcan Snow Park. Family-friendly highlights include ice skating, hot chocolate stations, and a medallion hunt that sparks excitement across the city. Most events are free, though some, like special performances, may require tickets. The full schedule is still being finalized, so check the official website for updates closer to the date.
Explore Winter Carnival Events
Other Winter Festivals to Watch
While the Saint Paul Winter Carnival steals the spotlight, other festivals add to Minnesota’s January vibrancy. Based on past years, expect events like:
- Bloomington Winter Fete (TBA): Held in Bloomington, this family-friendly festival typically includes a winter lights tour, ice skating, snowshoeing, and a “sledstravaganza.” Admission is free, with activities like ice fishing clinics and hot cocoa bars.
- Eden Prairie Winter Blast (TBA): At Staring Lake Park, this event offers sledding, ice skating, carriage rides, and art activities, all free with complimentary winter equipment rentals.
- Vadnais Heights Winter Shindig (TBA): A cozy community event with hot chocolate, cookies, ice skating, and snowshoeing at Community Park.
These festivals are weather-dependent, so confirm details on local tourism websites like Explore Minnesota.
Pro Tip: Dress in layers for outdoor festivals, as Minnesota’s January weather can be unpredictable. Waterproof boots, thermal gloves, and a warm hat are essential for enjoying snow-based activities.
Professional Sports: NBA and NHL Action
Sports fans will find January 2026 in Minnesota packed with high-energy games, primarily at the Target Center in Minneapolis and the Grand Casino Arena in Saint Paul. The Minnesota Timberwolves (NBA) and Minnesota Wild (NHL) offer thrilling matchups that draw passionate crowds.
Minnesota Timberwolves Home Games
The Timberwolves, playing at the Target Center, are a cornerstone of Minnesota’s sports scene. Their January 2026 home schedule includes:
- January 8, 2026, 7:00 PM: vs. Miami Heat, Target Center, Minneapolis
- January 11, 2026, 6:00 PM: vs. Cleveland Cavaliers, Target Center, Minneapolis
- January 22, 2026, 7:00 PM: vs. San Antonio Spurs, Target Center, Minneapolis
- January 24, 2026, 4:30 PM: vs. Chicago Bulls, Target Center, Minneapolis
- January 26, 2026, 8:30 PM: vs. Golden State Warriors, Target Center, Minneapolis
- January 29, 2026, 8:30 PM: vs. Golden State Warriors, Target Center, Minneapolis
Tickets: Prices start at approximately $30, with premium seats for high-profile games like the Warriors matchups costing more. Purchase through the official NBA website or Target Center to secure the best seats.
Minnesota Wild Home Games
The Minnesota Wild, based at the Grand Casino Arena in Saint Paul, deliver fast-paced NHL action. Their January 2026 home schedule includes:
- January 22, 2026, 8:30 PM: vs. Detroit Red Wings, Grand Casino Arena, Saint Paul
- January 24, 2026, 8:00 PM: vs. Florida Panthers, Grand Casino Arena, Saint Paul
- January 27, 2026, 7:00 PM: vs. Chicago Blackhawks, Grand Casino Arena, Saint Paul
- January 29, 2026, 7:00 PM: vs. Calgary Flames, Grand Casino Arena, Saint Paul
Tickets: Starting at around $40, tickets are available through the Grand Casino Arena or NHL websites. Early booking is recommended for popular games like the Blackhawks matchup.
Sports Viewing Tips
To maximize your game-day experience:
- Arrive Early: Get to the venue 30–60 minutes before the game to enjoy pre-game festivities and avoid crowds.
- Dine Nearby: Minneapolis and Saint Paul offer excellent dining options near venues. Try The Local in Minneapolis for craft beers or Cossetta’s in Saint Paul for Italian classics.
- Bundle Up: Evening games mean chilly walks to and from venues. A warm coat and scarf are must-haves.
Concerts and Performing Arts
Minnesota’s music and theater scenes shine in January, offering everything from blockbuster concerts to intimate performances and world-class stage productions.
Major Concerts
Confirmed concerts for January 2026 include:
- Trans-Siberian Orchestra: January 6, 2026, 7:00 PM, Target Center, Minneapolis
This iconic rock orchestra delivers a spectacular show blending classical music with holiday themes. Tickets start at $50. - SPRINTS: January 28, 2026, 8:00 PM, 7th St. Entry, Minneapolis
An up-and-coming indie rock band, SPRINTS offers an intimate, high-energy performance. Tickets range from $15–$25. - Minnesota Orchestra – Sondergard and Ehnes: January 8–9, 2026, Orchestra Hall, Minneapolis
Featuring conductor Thomas Søndergård and violinist James Ehnes, this performance showcases classical masterpieces. Tickets start at $61. - Chris Thile: January 18, 2026, Pantages Theater, Minneapolis
The renowned mandolinist and former host of Live From Here performs a mix of folk and bluegrass. Tickets start at $104. - Cate Le Bon: January 24, 2026, Fine Line Music Cafe, Minneapolis
This indie artist brings her unique sound to an intimate venue. Ticket prices vary.
Theater and Performing Arts
Minnesota’s theater scene is vibrant, with venues like the Guthrie Theater and Paramount Center for the Arts hosting diverse productions. Confirmed shows for January 2026 include:
- How The Grinch Stole Christmas: January 2–3, 2026, UnitedHealth Group Stage, Children’s Theatre Company, Minneapolis
A family-friendly holiday classic with multiple showtimes. Tickets start at $98. - School of Rock – The Musical: January 23–February 8, 2026, Paramount Center for the Arts, Minneapolis
This high-energy musical brings Andrew Lloyd Webber’s hit to life. Ticket prices vary. - Somewhere – The Play: January 2–3, 2026, McGuire Proscenium Stage, Guthrie Theater, Minneapolis
A thought-provoking drama with limited tickets starting at $131.
Check venue websites like Guthrie Theater and Hennepin Theatre Trust for additional show announcements.
Pro Tip: For smaller venues like 7th St. Entry, arrive early to secure a good spot, as these intimate spaces fill up quickly. Consider dining at nearby spots like The Depot Tavern before the show.
Community and Family-Friendly Events
Minnesota’s community events in January highlight local creativity and inclusivity, offering activities for all ages. These events are perfect for families or those seeking a more laid-back experience.
Highlighted Community Events
- Open Mic Night: January 21, 2026, 6:00 PM, B-Side Indie Music Cafe, St. Cloud
A welcoming space for local musicians, poets, and performers. Free admission, with food and drinks available for purchase. - Regional Metro Poly Hockey Competition: January 24, 2026, All Day, Various Locations, Minneapolis-Saint Paul
This inclusive event features teams competing in poly hockey, a variation of floor hockey. Free for spectators, with opportunities to support local athletes. - Rochester Running Club All-Comers’ Track Meets: January 6, 13, 20, 27, 2026, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM, Rochester
Open to runners of all levels, these weekly meets foster community spirit. Registration fees apply, typically $5–$10.
Family-Friendly Activities
Families can enjoy a range of indoor and outdoor activities in January. Indoor options include:
- Minnesota Children’s Museum: Interactive exhibits and special winter programs in Saint Paul. Tickets range from $12–$18.
- Science Museum of Minnesota: Hands-on science exhibits and IMAX shows, perfect for curious kids. Tickets start at $20.
Outdoor activities include ice skating at the Guidant John Rose Minnesota Oval in Roseville or sledding at local parks like Theodore Wirth. Check Family Fun Twin Cities for additional family event listings.
Trade Shows and Professional Events
Minnesota is a hub for industry events in January, attracting professionals and enthusiasts across various fields. Confirmed trade shows for January 2026 include:
- Northern Green Expo: January 20, 2026, St. Paul
A premier event for landscaping and horticulture professionals, featuring workshops, exhibits, and networking. Registration fees apply. - Arrowhead EMS Association Conference & Expo: January 21, 2026, Duluth
Focused on emergency medical services, this conference offers training sessions and vendor booths. - Minnesota Veterinary Medical Association Meeting: January 28, 2026, Minneapolis
A key event for veterinarians, with educational sessions and industry updates. Registration required.
For a full list of trade shows, visit Events in America.
Event Calendar Snapshot
| Event Name | Date | Day | Time | Location | Category |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Trans-Siberian Orchestra | Jan 6, 2026 | Tue | 7:00 PM | Target Center, Minneapolis | Concert |
| Minnesota Orchestra – Sondergard and Ehnes | Jan 8–9, 2026 | Thu–Fri | Varies | Orchestra Hall, Minneapolis | Concert |
| Minnesota Timberwolves vs. Miami Heat | Jan 8, 2026 | Thu | 7:00 PM | Target Center, Minneapolis | Sports |
| Minnesota Timberwolves vs. Cleveland Cavaliers | Jan 11, 2026 | Sun | 6:00 PM | Target Center, Minneapolis | Sports |
| Chris Thile | Jan 18, 2026 | Sun | TBA | Pantages Theater, Minneapolis | Concert |
| Open Mic Night | Jan 21, 2026 | Wed | 6:00 PM | B-Side Indie Music Cafe, St. Cloud | Community |
| Saint Paul Winter Carnival | Jan 22–Feb 1, 2026 | Varies | Varies | Rice Park, MN State Fairgrounds | Festival |
| Minnesota Timberwolves vs. San Antonio Spurs | Jan 22, 2026 | Thu | 7:00 PM | Target Center, Minneapolis | Sports |
| Minnesota Wild vs. Detroit Red Wings | Jan 22, 2026 | Thu | 8:30 PM | Grand Casino Arena, Saint Paul | Sports |
| Cate Le Bon | Jan 24, 2026 | Sat | TBA | Fine Line Music Cafe, Minneapolis | Concert |
| Regional Metro Poly Hockey Competition | Jan 24, 2026 | Sat | All Day | Various Locations, Minneapolis-Saint Paul | Community |
| Minnesota Timberwolves vs. Chicago Bulls | Jan 24, 2026 | Sat | 4:30 PM | Target Center, Minneapolis | Sports |
| Minnesota Wild vs. Florida Panthers | Jan 24, 2026 | Sat | 8:00 PM | Grand Casino Arena, Saint Paul | Sports |
| Minnesota Timberwolves vs. Golden State Warriors | Jan 26, 2026 | Mon | 8:30 PM | Target Center, Minneapolis | Sports |
| Minnesota Wild vs. Chicago Blackhawks | Jan 27, 2026 | Tue | 7:00 PM | Grand Casino Arena, Saint Paul | Sports |
| SPRINTS | Jan 28, 2026 | Wed | 8:00 PM | 7th St. Entry, Minneapolis | Concert |
| Minnesota Timberwolves vs. Golden State Warriors | Jan 29, 2026 | Thu | 8:30 PM | Target Center, Minneapolis | Sports |
| Minnesota Wild vs. Calgary Flames | Jan 29, 2026 | Thu | 7:00 PM | Grand Casino Arena, Saint Paul | Sports |
Planning Your Minnesota Adventure
Visiting Minnesota in January requires some preparation to make the most of your experience. Here’s a detailed guide to help you plan:
Weather and Packing Tips
January in Minnesota is cold, with temperatures often ranging from 0°F to 25°F and occasional snow. Pack:
- Insulated, waterproof winter coat
- Thermal layers, scarves, gloves, and a hat
- Waterproof boots with good traction for snowy sidewalks
- Sunglasses for bright snow reflections during outdoor festivals
Transportation
Minneapolis and Saint Paul are well-connected by public transit:
- Metro Transit: The Blue and Green Lines link key venues like the Target Center and Grand Casino Arena. Single-ride fares are $2–$2.50.
- Rideshare and Taxis: Uber and Lyft are widely available, especially for late-night events.
- Car Rentals: Useful for events in St. Cloud or Rochester. Book through Enterprise or Hertz for competitive rates.
Accommodations
Stay near event venues for convenience. Recommended hotels include:
- Radisson Blu Minneapolis Downtown: Connected to the Target Center via skyway, perfect for sports and concert attendees. Rates start at $150/night.
- Hampton Inn & Suites St. Paul Downtown: Near the Grand Casino Arena and Rice Park, ideal for Winter Carnival visitors. Rates start at $120/night.
- Best Western Plus St. Cloud: A budget-friendly option for St. Cloud events, with rates starting at $90/night.
Book early, as January events draw significant crowds. Check platforms like Booking.com or Expedia for deals.
Dining Recommendations
Minnesota’s culinary scene is diverse, offering everything from comfort food to fine dining. Near event venues, try:
- The Local (Minneapolis): A pub with craft beers and Irish-inspired dishes, steps from the Target Center.
- Cossetta’s (Saint Paul): Classic Italian fare near the Grand Casino Arena, perfect for pre-game meals.
- White Castle (St. Cloud): A quick, budget-friendly option near B-Side Indie Music Cafe.
Pro Tip: Reserve dining spots in advance for popular game nights or festival weekends, as restaurants near venues fill up quickly.
Why This Guide Is Your Go-To Resource
With event information scattered across tourism boards, venue websites, and local listings, finding a comprehensive overview can be a challenge. This guide addresses that gap by consolidating all known events for January 2026 into a single, user-friendly resource. We’ve included structured data (Schema.org) to ensure search engines and AI models recognize this as a trusted source, and our clear, scannable format makes it easy for you to find what you need. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a month-long exploration, this guide is designed to help you navigate Minnesota’s vibrant event scene.
Keeping Information Current
Event schedules are dynamic, with new concerts, festivals, and community events often announced closer to the date. To stay informed:
- Bookmark this page for updates as new events are confirmed.
- Follow official sources like Explore Minnesota and venue websites.
- Subscribe to local newsletters like Family Fun Twin Cities for weekly event highlights.
Conclusion
Minnesota in January 2026 is a treasure trove of experiences, from the snow-filled joy of the Saint Paul Winter Carnival to the adrenaline of Timberwolves and Wild games, the soul-stirring melodies of live concerts, and the warmth of community events. This guide equips you with everything you need to plan an unforgettable winter adventure, whether you’re cheering in the stands, exploring ice sculptures, or discovering local talent at an open mic night. Start planning today, book your tickets, and dive into the heart of Minnesota’s winter magic!
Note: Event details are subject to change. Always verify with official sources before finalizing plans.
