The Classic Nutcracker
2025-12-19 14:00 - 2025-12-21 16:00 (America/Chicago) | The O’Shaughnessy
December 19-21. The O’Shaughnessy. $22.75-$49.75.Ballet Minnesota’s Classic Nutcracker, now in its 37th year, thousands of patrons and newcomers venture out in December to enjoy this “radiant production” presented at The O’Shaughnessy in St Paul, Minnesota. Tickets and more at balletminnesota.org/the-classic-nutcracker.

Parents Night Out
2025-12-19 17:30 - 20:30
December 19, 5:30-8:30 p.m. Groveland Recreation Center. $10-$15

We will offer a variety of staff-led activities in a safe, engaging environment while you get a well-deserved break – they get a night of excitement and connection. Fees: Resident $10.00, Non-Resident $15.00. Registration required. Learn more at stpaul.gov/news/winter-special-events-holiday-parties.

Family Movie: Miracle on 34th St!
2025-12-19 18:15 - 20:30 | West 7th Community Center, 265 Oneida St., St. Paul, MN, 55102, United States
December 19, 6:15 p.m. West 7th Community Center. Free

Join West 7th Library and Keystone Community Services for our featured movie: Miracle on 34th St.! One Friday night a month we’ll show our favorite movies on the big screen in the gym. Bring your favorite blanket & snacks–and wear your pajamas if you like. Fresh hot popcorn will be served! Learn more at sppl.org/events.

Family Chanukah Concert
2025-12-21 15:00 - 16:30 | Capp Center
December 21, 3:00-4:30 p.m. Capp Center. $12.

Hanukkah Jam-boree with Louis & Dan and the Invisible Band! Get ready to sing, laugh, and light up the afternoon! Join Louis & Dan and the Invisible Band for a lively, hour-long concert full of clever lyrics, catchy tunes, and lots of audience participation. The award-winning duo—beloved by kids, parents, and even college students—bring their signature mix of humor, heart, and high-energy fun to this special Hanukkah celebration. You’ll hear some of their fan-favorite originals, including their new holiday classic, “How to Say Chanukah,” along with plenty of other smart, silly, and joy-filled songs that’ll have the whole family tapping, clapping, and singing along. Perfect for all ages — come for the music, stay for the laughter and light! Tickets and more at minnesotajcc.org/event/family-chanukah-concert.

Holiday Tot Time Celebration
2025-12-22 11:00 - 12:30 | Linwood Recreation Center
December 22, 11:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Linwood Recreation Center. $3-$6

Calling all little ones! Let’s celebration the holidays with a fun little Tot Time party! Join us for treats, fun crafts, music & playtime in the gym. Registration is required. Fees Resident $3.00, Non-Resident $6.00. Learn more and register at stpaul.gov/news/winter-special-events-holiday-parties.

Bold North Breakaway Fan Fest
2025-12-26 00:00 - 2026-01-05 23:59 | Rice Park
December 26-January 5. Rice Park. Free

Coinciding with the IIHF World Junior Championship hockey tournament, Bold North Breakaway Fan Fest will run Dec. 26 – Jan. 5, bringing Rice Park and the St. Paul RiverCentre to life with hockey, food, music and family fun – all free and open to the public. Outdoor highlights include: Bumper cars ($5 rides), trolley and horse-drawn carriage rides, a skills rink, a New Year’s Eve Fireworks Show and more. Fan fest hours and the complete schedule of events and experiences can be found at WorldJuniorsMN26.com/fanfest.

Tot Time New Years Eve Party
2025-12-30 09:30 - 10:30 | Highland Park Community Center
December 30, 9:30-10:30 a.m. Highland Park Community Center. Free.

New Year’s Eve Tot Time Party – Featuring the Teddy Bear Band!Ring in the New Year early with a special celebration just for little ones! Enjoy lively music and fun with the Teddy Bear Band, followed by a cozy Story Time with our friends from the Highland Park Library. Kids are welcome to wear their pajamas and bring along their favorite teddy bear (we’ll have extras available too!). This playful, family-friendly event is a great way to celebrate together before bedtime. Learn more at stpaul.gov/news/winter-special-events-holiday-parties.

New Year's Eve Craft Party with Kidcreate Studio
2025-12-31 09:30 - 12:30 | Linwood Recreation Center
December 31, 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Linwood Recreation Center. $38-$57

Mom & Dad, you deserve a break from your crazy holiday schedule! Send your young artist to class to make all they will need for a fabulous New Year’s Eve celebration. We will create noisemakers, party poppers, and New Year’s Eve hats. What a fun way to ring in the New Year! Please pack a nut free snack and drink for your child. *Registration required* Fees: Resident $38.00, Non-Resident $57.00. Learn more and register at stpaul.gov/news/winter-special-events-holiday-parties.

Sundays at Landmark: Minnesota Boychoir
2026-01-04 13:00 - 17:00
January 4, 1:00 & 3:30 p.m. Landmark Center. Free.

Members of the Minnesota Boychoir return for their annual Winter Concert — performed twice at 1pm and 3:30pm. These concerts are free and open to the public. Minnesota Boychoir has four core ensembles and several outreach programs and includes over 120 singers ages 6-18, from more than forty communities throughout the Twin Cities metropolitan area. The choir’s vast repertoire includes challenging sacred, classical, secular, folk and contemporary choral music sung in more than 30 languages and dialects. Each season they perform up to 30 concerts in churches, hospitals, schools, retirement homes and convert venues across the globe. More info at landmarkcenter.org/event/sundays-at-landmark-minnesota-boychoir-concert-4.

Music Under Glass
2026-01-04 16:30 - 2026-02-04 18:30 | Como Zoo Conservatory
Select dates Jan. 4–Feb. 4, evenings. Marjorie McNeely Conservatory, Como Zoo. Free.

Music Under Glass offers a warm winter escape with live local music set among lush tropical gardens. Concertgoers can wander the Sunken Garden at dusk while enjoying performances ranging from folk and blues to rockabilly and world music. While seating is limited in the main garden, performances are simulcast throughout the Conservatory where additional seating is available. Beer and wine are available for purchase, and the Conservatory remains open after the zoo closes. A unique blend of music and atmosphere.More info: comozooconservatory.org

Free Thursday Nights at the History Center
2026-01-08 16:00 - 20:00 | Minnesota History Center
Thursdays in January except New Year’s Day. 4:00-8:00 p.m. Minnesota History Center. Free.

Visit the Minnesota History Center on a Thursday night from 4-8 p.m., and get free admission and parking! During Thursday visits, you can experience a variety of world-class exhibits, including Our Home: Native Minnesota, Reframing Our Stories, Minnesota’s Greatest Generation, Weather Permitting, and Then Now Wow. Additional information about free Thursday nights will be posted on mnhs.org/events.

Sokol Minnesota Friendly Friday Evenings
2026-01-09 19:00 - 22:00 | C.S.P.S. Hall
January 9, 7:00-10:00 p.m. C.S.P.S. Hall. Free.
Family friendly cards and board games, fun, food, and friends. No fee. Bring your own beverages and/or snack to share. More info at sokolmn.org/all-events.

Faces of Life
2026-01-10 10:00 - 2026-01-13 16:00
Weekends Jan. 10–31, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Burl Gallery. Free.

Faces of Life is a powerful and intimate photography exhibition by artist Gregory Gilbert that centers on 20 individuals receiving hospice care. Through these portraits, Gilbert seeks to honor the lives and humanity of his subjects while challenging common misconceptions about hospice, particularly the idea that it signals immediate death. Instead, the exhibit highlights dignity, resilience and connection during life’s final chapter. The opening reception on January 10 from 1–3 p.m. offers an opportunity to meet the artist and engage with the work in a welcoming setting. The exhibit is open weekends throughout January and invites thoughtful reflection and conversation.More info: burlgallery.com

Sewing Tips with Saphira
2026-01-10 10:30 - 12:30 | George Latimer Central Library
January 10, 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.George Latimer Central Library. Free.
A new sewing class is starting Saturday, 11/08 and continuing monthly on the second Saturday of the month. Our expert sewist Saphira will help you mend damaged items, or get you started with a new project! We have sewing machines available in the Innovation Lab, as well as some fabric, thread, buttons, etc., or you can bring your own. Registration is requested for
Sewing Tips with Saphira at sppl.org/events.

Urban Expedition: Dakota Homeland
2026-01-11 13:00 - 15:00 | Landmark Center
January 11, 1:00-3:00 p.m. Landmark Center. Free
Landmark Center’s beloved Urban Expedition program invites families to explore global cultures right in the heart of St. Paul. Celebrating its 22nd season in 2026, Urban Expedition features five unique programs that showcase the rich music, dance, crafts, and traditions of various countries and cultures. We’re excited to kick off the season with a celebration of the Dakota Homeland! Experience the vibrancy of authentic music, food, dance, and crafts in this immersive event. Don’t forget to grab your passport and collect a stamp at each Urban Expedition for a chance to win a prize! This event is presented in collaboration with Blue Hummingbird Woman and other Dakota community members. Learn more at landmarkcenter.org/event/urban-expedition-dakota-homeland.

History Theatre 2026 Concert Series
2026-01-11 14:00 - 16:00 | Minnesota History Theatre
Multiple dates Jan.–April 2026. History Theatre, St. Paul. Ticketed.

History Theatre’s 2026 Concert Series celebrates iconic music across genres and generations, featuring beloved songs from the 1960s and ’70s, Irish folk traditions and Broadway classics. Highlights include “We Dig Peter, Paul & Mary” with Michael Monroe on January 11, Northern Shores featuring Danny Diamond and Brian Miller on February 15, and The Best of Broadway Belters on April 18 with Jen Burleigh-Bentz and a full band. Each performance brings acclaimed regional artists to the stage for intimate, high-quality concerts in a historic venue. The series offers something for music lovers of all ages and tastes.More info: historytheatre.com/special_events

Constitutional Observer Training – Free for the Community
2026-01-15 18:00 - 19:30 | Wellstone Center
January 15, 6–7:30 p.m. The Wellstone Center. Free.

This free Constitutional Observer training equips community members with knowledge about their rights as bystanders and individuals during interactions involving ICE and law enforcement. Hosted by Neighborhood House, the Immigrant Defense Network, and St. Paul City Council President Rebecca Noecker, the session addresses recent increases in visible enforcement activity. Participants will learn how to observe safely, understand constitutional protections, and access resources for impacted individuals and families. The training emphasizes solidarity, awareness, and community preparedness.More info: eventbrite.com/e/constitutional-observer-training-free-for-the-community-tickets-1977637046643

MN Roller Derby January Bouts
2026-01-17 18:00 - 21:00 | Roy Wilkins Auditorium
January 17, 6:00 p.m. Roy Wilkins Auditorium. $24-$26.
Minnesota Roller Derby is back in the legendary Roy Wilkins Auditorium for season 22! Get your tickets to see MNRD’s home teams face off in two action-packed bouts! Doors are opening an hour earlier this year, at 5pm, with the first whistle at 6. Kids 9 and under free in General Admission area, ages 2 and under free in Reserved Seats. Must be 18 or older to sit Trackside.
More info at MNrollerderby.com
Event Dates:

November 22, 2024
January 17, 2025
February 14, 2025
March 28, 2025
April 25, 2025

Mac-Grove Speaker Series: Andy Rodriguez
2026-01-21 19:00 - 20:00
January 21, 7 p.m. Pilgrim Lutheran Church ELCA. Free.

The Mac-Grove Speaker Series welcomes Andy Rodriguez, director of St. Paul Parks and Recreation, for an evening discussion on local parks, recreation, and community spaces. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. with the program beginning at 7 p.m. Hosted by Pilgrim Lutheran Church ELCA, the event offers residents a chance to hear directly from city leadership and engage in conversation about public spaces that shape neighborhood life.More info: macgrove.org

King Boreas Grande Day Parade
2026-01-24 14:00 - 17:00 | Grand Avenue
January 24, 2:00 p.m. Grand Avenue. Free.
The King Boreas Grande Day Parade is back on Grand Avenue in Saint Paul on Saturday, January 24! Beginning at Dale and ending just after Lexington, featuring dozens of bands, floats and, of course, the newly crowned King Boreas and his Royal Family. Learn more at wintercarnival.com/events/2026/king-boreas-grande-day-parade.

Svíčková Dinner
2026-01-24 17:00 - 21:00 | C.S.P.S. Hall
January 24, doors open 4:30 p.m., serving: 5 p.m. C.S.P.S. Hall. $35.
Beef in cream sauce with bread dumplings, coffee, and dessert. Bar: beer, wine, soft drinks. $35 per person. Prepay for the Svíčková Dinner online. Learn more and purchase tickets at sokolmn.org/all-events.

Winter Craft Bazaar
2026-01-26 08:00 - 17:00
February 21, 10 a.m.–3 p.m. El Rio Vista.

Shop handmade crafts and goods at El Rio Vista’s Winter Craft Bazaar. Vendor spots available. Call 651-789-3692. facebook.com/ElRioVistaRecreationCenter.

History Theatre Presents WHOOSH!
2026-01-29 19:30 - 2026-02-22 16:00
Jan. 29–Feb. 22. History Theatre, St. Paul. Tickets $25–70; student discounts available.

WHOOSH! The Civil War Mythology of Michael Hickey and His Perilous Precipitation Over St. Anthony Falls is a powerful solo performance written and performed by Andrew Erskine Wheeler. Blending music, folklore, and family history, the production explores Minnesota’s layered past through the story of an Irish immigrant and Civil War veteran. Featuring live Irish folk music by Northern Shores, the show examines heroism, memory, and healing. Post-show talkbacks follow Sunday matinees. Tickets and accessibility information at historytheatre.com.

Frost Fest
2026-01-31 14:00 - 17:00 | Groveland Ice Rinks
January 31, 2–5 p.m. Groveland Ice Rinks. Free.

RESCHEDULED DUE TO COLD

Celebrate winter at Frost Fest with an afternoon of outdoor fun for all ages. Activities include ice skating, games, prizes, hot chocolate, and a cozy bonfire. Hosted at the Groveland Ice Rinks, this family-friendly event brings neighbors together to embrace the season and enjoy community spirit. Whether you skate or simply enjoy the atmosphere, Frost Fest offers a festive way to spend a winter afternoon.More info: macgrove.org/frostfest

Vulcan Victory Torchlight Parade
2026-01-31 17:00 - 19:30
January 31, 5:15–7:30 p.m. Downtown St. Paul. Free.

A St. Paul Winter Carnival highlight, the Torchlight Parade features illuminated floats, marching units, and fireworks following the parade. The route ends at Rice Park with the Vulcan Overthrow ceremony. Learn more at wintercarnival.com.

Doggie Depot
2026-02-01 10:00 - 17:00
February 1, 10 a.m. Union Depot. Free.

Celebrate canine royalty at Doggie Depot, featuring local pet vendors, adoptable pups, and the crowning of the St. Paul Winter Carnival Canine King and Queen. Details at uniondepot.org/doggiedepot.

Heirloom Fire: Czech Glasswork
2026-02-01 13:00 - 14:30
February 1, 1–2:30 p.m. C.S.P.S. Hall. $10.

Minnesota jewelry artist Andrea Turini presents the history and traditions of Czech glassmaking, sharing photos and video from Jablonec nad Nisou. The program includes a live demonstration of bead and button production. $5 members, $10 non-members. Details at sokolmn.org/all-events.

Sketchy Night with St. Paul Art Collective
2026-02-02 18:30 - 20:30
February 2, 6:30–8:30 p.m. Schmidt Artist Lofts, St. Paul. Free.

A relaxed, drop-in evening for sketching, conversation, and community. Open to members and artists interested in joining. Full schedule at stpaulartcollective.org.

2026 Dates

February 2nd

March 2nd

May 4th

June 1st

July 6th

August 3rd

October 5th

November 2nd

December 7th

Community Blood Drive
2026-02-06 10:00 - 14:30 | Highland Park Community Center
Friday, February 6, 10 a.m.–2:30 p.m. Highland Park Community Center, 1978 Ford Parkway.

Give blood and help save lives at this community blood drive hosted with Memorial Blood Center. Donating blood is a simple yet powerful way to support local hospitals and patients in need. Many appointment slots are available, and walk-ins may be accommodated as space allows. The event is conveniently located at the Highland Park Community Center and welcomes both first-time and returning donors. Sign up online to reserve your spot and make a meaningful impact in just a short amount of time.More info: www.mbcherohub.club/donor/schedules

Karneval Tanzparty 2026
2026-02-07 08:00 - 13:00
February 7, 8 p.m.–1 a.m. Germanic-American Institute. $20-$25.

Celebrate Karneval with Europop, costumes, dancing, and a Waltz Ball. Costumes encouraged. Tickets $20–$25. Details at gaimn.org/karneval.
