Throughout the month of January, ice sculpture artists are busy putting the final touches on their plans for the St. Paul Winter Carnival in Minnesota. During the last week of January is when they get busy creating their ice sculptures on the streets of St Paul.

If you are looking to have some winter fun outdoors, plan on attending the winter carnival. It starts the last Thursday in January and runs through first Sunday in February.

Like any other carnival, it isn’t complete without a parade. The Grand Parade will be held the first Saturday of the carnival. Bundle up warm so you can will enjoy the floats and bands during the parade.

There are plenty of events taking place at the winter carnival this year. The snow plowing competition is open to the public so you can sign yourself up and see what you and your machine can do. There is also opportunity to create snow sculptures and listen to music in the park. Children’s artwork will be on display and ice skating is open to the public.

Sled dogs races will be held on White Bear Lake. This event has been associated with the St. Paul Winter Carnival since 1917 when a young man competed in a dog sled race from Winnipeg, Canada to St. Paul. Since that time, many sled dog races have been held during the winter carnival. Spectators may want to leave their own dogs at home so they don’t distract the sled dogs.

Another interesting event is the moon glow pedestrian parade. Kids will surely enjoy this. For music lovers, you don’t have to worry about being cold while listening to music at the Euro dance party because there will be a bonfire, brats and beer.

The carnival also includes some indoors activities. You can participate in the jigsaw puzzle contest and if you are into hockey then you can attend one of the many hockey games during the tournaments. There is also curling, roller skating, and children’s artwork on display.

So bundle up and enjoy the many events and activities that are planned this season. And don’t forget to have a cup of hot chocolate!