Published on
January 17, 2026
Are you ready to experience the ultimate winter celebration? The Great Northern Winter Festival 2026 is coming to the vibrant cities of Minneapolis and Saint Paul, Minnesota, from January 28 to February 1, 2026. This festival is not just another cold-weather event; it’s a bold and exciting celebration of winter, creativity, art, music, wellness, and climate awareness. It’s the perfect way to embrace Minnesota’s cold season, rather than hide from it.
Let’s dive into everything you need to know about this unmissable winter extravaganza. From live performances to sauna villages, outdoor art installations to family-friendly activities, the Great Northern Winter Festival offers something for everyone.
What is the Great Northern Winter Festival?
The Great Northern Winter Festival is a five-day event that turns Minnesota’s cold winter days into an opportunity to celebrate art, music, community, and climate awareness. Taking place across Minneapolis and Saint Paul, the festival embraces the cold by offering a wide range of outdoor and indoor activities that connect people with the winter season in a creative, fun, and meaningful way.
Unlike traditional winter events, the Great Northern Festival combines live music, sauna experiences, outdoor art, climate change discussions, and local food offerings. It’s a celebration of everything that makes winter unique, and it invites visitors to enjoy, explore, and engage with Minnesota’s stunning winter landscape.
Dates and Locations
The festival will take place from January 28 to February 1, 2026, and will be hosted at various locations across Minneapolis and Saint Paul. Whether you’re exploring the Mississippi River banks, enjoying the art installations in Saint Anthony Main, or relaxing in one of the unique sauna villages, the festival offers a range of experiences that bring the spirit of winter to life in the heart of the Twin Cities.
Why You Should Attend the Great Northern Winter Festival
This festival is far from your average winter event. It’s about embracing the chill of winter while enjoying everything the season has to offer. Here’s why you should mark your calendar for the Great Northern Winter Festival 2026.
1. Experience the Magic of the Sauna Village
One of the festival’s main attractions is the Sauna Village, which offers a truly unique experience for festivalgoers. With over 20 different saunas set up across various locations, you can step inside heated cabins and unwind as you enjoy the warmth and calm. It’s a great way to relax after exploring the cold outdoors.
The Sauna Village will feature different styles of sauna experiences, from traditional Finnish saunas to modern steam rooms, and even sound bathing sessions. Whether you’re new to saunas or a seasoned enthusiast, this is a chance to experience something truly special in the heart of winter.
2. Get Involved in Live Music and Performances
If you’re a fan of live music, you won’t want to miss the performances at the Great Northern Winter Festival. The festival will feature a variety of musical acts, from acoustic sessions to energetic dance parties. Whether you prefer the calm of a solo acoustic guitar or the high-energy beats of an outdoor dance event, there will be music to suit every taste.
The Cold Open, a lively outdoor dance party, is one of the key events where you can groove to the beats, surrounded by the beauty of winter. The festival also includes intimate concerts and performances in venues across Minneapolis and Saint Paul, giving you a chance to enjoy music in a cosy, community-driven environment.
3. Discover Stunning Outdoor Art Installations
Art lovers will be in for a treat at the Great Northern Winter Festival. The festival’s outdoor art installations transform the cold winter landscape into a stunning display of creativity. From light installations that turn buildings into glowing works of art to sculptures that capture the essence of winter, the art is designed to engage and inspire.
In addition to the outdoor installations, there will also be interactive art experiences, where you can become a part of the art itself. These experiences encourage you to explore, create, and engage with the art in a way that’s both fun and thought-provoking.
4. Engage in Climate Awareness and Discussions
One of the standout features of the Great Northern Winter Festival is its focus on climate change and environmental sustainability. The festival features a Climate Solutions Series, where experts and activists come together to discuss sustainability, climate resilience, and the role communities can play in protecting the environment.
Through panel discussions, workshops, and film screenings, the festival encourages people to think about the impact of climate change and how we can work together to create a more sustainable future. It’s an opportunity to learn, engage, and be part of a larger movement towards climate action.
5. Enjoy Winter Activities for All Ages
While the festival offers plenty of indoor activities, it also celebrates the outdoors. From fat-tire biking to snowshoeing, there are plenty of activities that allow you to embrace the winter weather. Whether you’re an experienced winter adventurer or someone who’s new to the season, the festival has something for you.
There are also family-friendly activities for children and adults alike, including interactive snowplay zones, sledding areas, and winter-themed games. These activities are perfect for families looking to spend time together outdoors while enjoying the beauty of the snow-covered Twin Cities.
6. Taste the Local Flavours with Food & Drink Offerings
The Great Northern Winter Festival wouldn’t be complete without some delicious food and drinks. Local food vendors will be serving up winter-inspired dishes, showcasing Minnesota’s rich culinary scene. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty stew to warm you up or a sweet treat to satisfy your cravings, the festival offers a variety of options to suit every taste.
There will also be winter markets where you can sample local products, from craft beers to winter wines, and enjoy the best of Minnesota’s food and drink culture. Don’t miss the opportunity to try some signature dishes and warm beverages while you explore the festival.
7. Family Day – A Perfect Ending to the Festival
The festival wraps up with Family Day on February 1, a day dedicated to fun activities for all ages. From puppet shows and youth workshops to interactive snow play and outdoor exploration, this is the perfect opportunity for families to enjoy the final day of the festival together.
Family Day is designed to be accessible to everyone, with activities that can be enjoyed by children and adults alike. Whether you’re building a snowman, participating in a scavenger hunt, or enjoying a live performance, Family Day offers a memorable conclusion to the festival.
How to Get Involved
Attending the Great Northern Winter Festival is easy, but to make the most of it, it’s important to plan ahead. Tickets for the event range from single-day passes to VIP all-access passes, depending on how much you want to experience. If you’re planning to enjoy the Sauna Village or special performances, it’s a good idea to purchase your tickets early to guarantee your spot.
You can also buy festival passports that allow you to explore various venues, participate in different activities, and access exclusive experiences. For those interested in the Climate Solutions Series or art installations, be sure to check the schedule for specific event timings.
To make your trip even more enjoyable, consider booking your accommodation in advance. Minneapolis and Saint Paul offer a wide range of hotels, many of which are within walking distance of festival venues. Whether you prefer a luxurious stay or something more budget-friendly, you’ll find plenty of options to suit your needs.
Why the Great Northern Winter Festival Is a Must-Visit Event
The Great Northern Winter Festival 2026 is more than just a winter event – it’s a celebration of creativity, community, and culture. It invites you to embrace the cold rather than hide from it and provides a platform to celebrate Minnesota’s unique winter spirit. With a focus on art, music, wellness, sustainability, and family-friendly fun, it’s a festival that truly has something for everyone.
Whether you’re relaxing in the Sauna Village, enjoying live performances, or exploring outdoor art, the Great Northern Festival offers a wide range of experiences that will help you rediscover the magic of winter.
Don’t miss the opportunity to experience this unforgettable winter celebration. The Great Northern Winter Festival 2026 is coming to Minneapolis and Saint Paul, and it’s an event you won’t want to miss!
