Hey listeners, grab your mittens and let's dive into the hottest happenings in Minneapolis-Saint Paul today through the weekend of January 31, 2026. As your friendly guide to Twin Cities fun, I'm buzzing about the Saint Paul Winter Carnival wrapping up its epic run from January 22 to February 1, with ice sculptures glowing in Rice Park, parades marching through downtown, and non-stop outdoor chills turned thrills.

Kick off today, Saturday, with the free Winter Carnival Family Day: Around the World in a Day at the Landmark Center, 75 West 5th Street in St. Paul, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. According to 365 Things To Do in the Twin Cities, this indoor bash packs global music, lively cultural dances, hands-on kid zones blending science and creativity, plus a vendor market and food festival—perfect for beating the cold while exploring traditions from everywhere. Think upbeat tunes to boogie to, wow-worthy science demos from the Science Museum, and bites for all ages. Families rave about the relaxed vibe, easy parking, and zero cost, making it a cozy centerpiece amid the carnival's ice park and Vulcan adventures nearby. The Star Tribune highlights the ongoing Food Festival in Rice Park too, sizzling all festival long.

Over in Minneapolis, brace for charged energy with ongoing anti-ICE protests sparked by Operation Metro Surge. The Jerusalem Post reports thousands marching downtown yesterday in sub-zero temps, demanding federal agents pull back after tragic shootings of locals Renee Good and Alex Pretti. WTIP notes solidarity actions like Arrowhead Indivisible's peaceful noon gathering outside Java Moose up north, but expect ripples here—stay informed and safe. Bruce Springsteen even rocked a fundraiser with his new "Streets of Minneapolis" tune.

Later tonight, warm up at the Midwinter Community Celebration from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m., where Explore Minnesota says Ole and Lena debate winter grit over music, food, and drinks in a community hoot.

The rest of the weekend? Carnival peaks tomorrow with more parades and ice fun before it closes February 1. Lace up for the City of Lakes Loppet at Theodore Wirth Park if you're ski-ready, per Twin Cities Family. Whether you're family frolicking, protest-passionate, or culture-craving, Minneapolis-Saint Paul delivers that unbeatable winter spark.

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