For Outdoor Enthusiasts
Don’t let the snow and cooler weather fool you, Winona is still a dreamland for outdoor enthusiasts. Try your hand at ice climbing, a sport that has thousands flocking to Winona’s massive ice park each winter. While you're at it, make plans to lace up your skates and take to the natural ice rink at Lake Park. Or bring your fat tire bike and get out on our trails to experience everything from gentle slopes to heart-pounding descents.
Featured Winter Events
Canadian Pacific Holiday Train
The CPKC Holiday Train is a bedazzled locomotive that makes a festive stop in Winona every December on its journey across the U.S. and Canada. This exciting event features a free concert from the train's stage, which is beautifully decorated with holiday lights. Visitors can enjoy music, meet local food bank representatives, and donate to a great cause. With its lively atmosphere, it's the perfect way to kick off the holiday season.
Frozen River Film Festival
Get ready for an unforgettable weekend at the Frozen River Film Festival in Winona! Every February, this festival brings award-winning films from major festivals like Sundance, Cannes, and Telluride right to the heart of the Midwest. With dozens of films to choose from, you’ll get a taste of the very best in indie cinema. From stunning documentaries to thought-provoking features, there’s something for everyone, even children. Don’t forget the panels and activities that bring you closer to the filmmakers and creative minds behind these extraordinary films! With plenty of films to explore and exciting activities to go with them, it’s an event you won't want to miss!
Winona Ice Fest
The Winona Ice Fest, happening every January, is an exciting new addition to the winter festival scene. This family-friendly event brings ice climbing to the heart of the Midwest, offering participants the rare opportunity to scale hundreds of feet of frozen walls in the Upper Central Plains. Visitors can enjoy climbing clinics, equipment demos, live music, and a social atmosphere at various local venues. Hosted at the Winona Ice Park, which is officially the second-largest ice park in the United States and the only one within city limits, this festival is a must-do for adventure lovers and winter enthusiasts!
Full Calendar of Upcoming Events
Our expansive, searchable calendar contains all types of events, whether you’re looking for things to do in the evening or during the day. Also, if you are planning a visit, you can sign up for our monthly or weekly overview of things to do to get your adventure-planning wheels turning!
Ask A Local
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