Saint Paul Winter Carnival
- Dates
- Jan 28 to Feb 7, 2027
- Status
- Confirmed
- Venue
- Rice Park and the Minnesota State Fairgrounds
- Price
- Not announced
- Camping
- None on site
- Last checked
- Nov 2, 2026
Saint Paul Winter Carnival returns to Saint Paul, MN, Jan 28 to Feb 7, 2027. Froligo tracks ticket prices, attendee feedback and travel details.
The experience
What's special
The Saint Paul Winter Carnival fills two corners of Minnesota's capital for eleven days each winter. Ice carvings and other events take over Rice Park downtown, while Vulcan Snow Park and the Minnesota State Snow Sculpture Competition spread across the Minnesota State Fairgrounds. The carnival is built around its own legend, with a royal court and characters who appear at events through the season, and run by the Saint Paul Festival & Heritage Foundation. The 2027 carnival runs January 28 to February 7.
How it works
Most events are free or low cost, and some only ask that you wear a 2027 Winter Carnival button. Buttons are sold online, in shops and by many local groups, and they are one of the carnival's biggest fundraisers, helping keep events free. Check each event's listing for its cost and whether it is indoors or outdoors. Dogs are welcome at the outdoor sites in Rice Park, the State Fairgrounds and Landmark Plaza Park, though not inside the Landmark Center.
Who it suits
Suits families, parade fans and anyone who likes a big winter celebration with a long-running legend behind it; most events are free or low cost. Many events are outdoors in a Minnesota winter, so visitors who dislike the cold should check each listing for the indoor ones.
What people love
Attendees point to the parades, especially the night parade, where hot air balloon flame throwers are lit every couple of minutes and the route ends at Rice Park with a short skit. The ice and snow sculptures, the skating, the food and drink and the Vulcans fighting for winter all draw praise, along with the legend of Boreas and Vulcanus Rex that Saint Paul kids grow up on. The usual verdict is that it is a lot of fun for a free event, with big crowds.
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Listen
No official playlist linked yet. Find Saint Paul Winter Carnival on Spotify.
Getting there
How do I get to Saint Paul Winter Carnival?
The carnival is spread over several Saint Paul sites, with events downtown around Rice Park, Landmark Center and Union Depot and the snow park and snow sculpture competition at the Minnesota State Fairgrounds, so the best way in depends on the day's plan. The carnival partners with Metro Transit, which is a good way to avoid traffic and downtown parking fees, with free passes for carnival visitors announced as coming, and drivers can use the city's interactive map to find downtown parking. Check out each of the options below.
Nearest airport MSP.
By car
The nearest major airport is MSP, and from there it is a straightforward drive to the venue. Check current road and traffic conditions before you set off, and see parking below.
By train
No direct passenger rail to the venue was found. Drive, fly in, or use a shuttle instead.
By bus & public transit
No scheduled intercity bus or public transit route to the venue was found. Drive, fly in, or use a shuttle instead.
Taxi & rideshare
Taxis and rideshare such as Uber and Lyft can be limited near the venue, especially late at night or in rural areas. Agree a pickup point and time in advance and keep a backup plan.
🚙 Car hire
Compare car hire at MSP
If you are hiring a car, it is worth checking parking near the venue before you go.
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Where
Venue
Rice Park and the Minnesota State Fairgrounds
Camping & Accommodation
Where do most people stay?
Downtown Saint Paul is the hub of the carnival, and its official hotel sits right at Rice Park, with easy access to the downtown events. Rooms are worth booking early, because the city gets very busy during the carnival. See the options below.
What to bring
A mid-winter carnival spread across downtown parks and streets and the State Fairgrounds, with a mix of indoor and outdoor events.
Accessibility & comfort
The organizer does not publish accessibility details. Ask them directly before you travel about step-free access, accessible toilets, seating and anything else you need.
Pricing
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Quick answers
When is Saint Paul Winter Carnival 2027?
Jan 28 to Feb 7, 2027
Where is Saint Paul Winter Carnival held?
Rice Park and the Minnesota State Fairgrounds, Saint Paul, MN.