The Saint Paul Winter Carnival has been drawing thousands of Minnesotans during the cold season since 1886. It has been a respected family tradition for Twin Cities' metropolitan area. Back then, this event used to feature activities such as bobsledding and ice horse-racing, however now you can partake in coronations, parades, a beer festival, a dogsled race, snow and ice sculptures, exhibits, cabaret, and a jigsaw puzzle contest.
The St Paul Winter Carnival offers a lot to do everyday. Whether it be going down a giant snow slide, playing in snow piles, participating in Amateur Snow Sculpting Contest, go skiing, or just simply watching and enjoying your surroundings.
Parades have always been the most popular part of the Saint Paul Winter Carnival. The Moon Glow Pedestrian Parade kicks off the Carnival in downtown Saint Paul. Participants wear luminaries and walk all the way from Saint Paul Chamber of Commerce to Rice Park.
King Boreas Grand Day Parade has been a tradition since 1886 when King Boreas the First was crowned at an ice palace. The parade consists of dozens of marching bands, festive floats, and performers going from West Seventh Street to Rice Park. Vulcan Victory Torchlight Parade is the last one to take place at the carnival. It starts at 5th and Wacouta, goes down via 5th Street to Washington Avenue and then through 4th Street until it reaches Rice Park, where it ends.
