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World Snow Celebration
Event Activities
Stay tuned for exciting updates on the World Snow Celebration 2026!
EVENT BUTTONS FOR 2026
Celebrate the magic of winter and support the 2026 World Snow Celebration by purchasing your official event button—available exclusively at 14 East Metro Cub stores starting December 1.
Each button not only helps bring world-class snow sculptors to the St. Croix Valley, it also gives you a chance to win some fantastic prizes!
WHERE TO BUY
Event buttons will be sold at the following participating Cub locations:
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Arden Hills - 3717 Lexington Ave. N. Arden Hills, MN 55126
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Bloomington - 10520 France Ave. S.Bloomington, MN 55431
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Cottage Grove - 8690 East Point Douglas Road Cottage Grove, MN 55016
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Forest Lake - 2013 Broadway Ave. W. Forest Lake, MN 55025
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Hastings - 1729 Market Blvd Hastings, MN 55033
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Inver Grove Heights - 7850 Cahill Avenue Inver Grove Heights, MN 55076
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Lyndale - 8421 Lyndale Ave. South Bloomington, MN 55420
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Maplewood East - 2390 White Bear Avenue North Maplewood, MN 55109
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Maplewood West - 100 West County Road B Maplewood, MN 55117
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Oakdale - 7191 10th St N. Oakdale, MN 55128
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Stillwater - 1801 Market Drive Stillwater, MN 55082
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White Bear Lake North - 1059 Meadowlands Drive White Bear Twp, MN 55127
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White Bear Lake South - 1920 Buerkle Road White Bear Lake MN 55110
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Woodbury - 8432 Tamarack Village Woodbury, MN 55125
When you buy a button, you can enter to win one of these exciting prize packages:
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Grand Prize: $1,000 cash and a $100 Cub gift card
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Second Prize: $500 Greater Stillwater Chamber Bucks and a $100 Cub gift card
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Third Prize: Exclusive World Snow Celebration merch and a $50 Cub gift card
The prize drawing will take place on Sunday, January 18, 2026. You must be 18 or older to enter.
Valley Bookseller
Midwest Witchery and Healing
DECEMBER 15, 2025 - JANUARY 25, 2026
FIND STILLY THE SNOWMAN SCAVENGER HUNT
Find Stilly the Snowman Scavenger Hunt around Downtown Stillwater! Pick up your stamp card at participating businesses and collect 12 or more stamps at the locations where you find Stilly! Return your card by January 25th at participating businesses.
PARTICIPATING BUSINESSES:
Betty June's | 421 S Main St
Black Letter Books | 102 S Main St
Darn Knit Anyway | 423 S Main St
Gold & Eight | 324 S Main St
Locale Makers Market & Boutique | 122 S Main St
Minnesota Made | 210 S Main St
Nirvana Nail Studio | 118 Chestnut St E
River Bank Gifts & Decor | 102 Main St N
Smith + Trade Mercantile | 229 S Main St
Sota Clothing Co | 401 S Main St
Stillwater Escape Co | 123 2nd St N #203
Stokes Jewelry | 113 S Main St
The Daily Grind | 217 Main St N
The Main Cafe | 108 S Main St
TOXYFREE | 208 S Main St
Valley Bookseller | 217 Main St N
Water Street Inn | 101 Water St S
Ziggy's On Main | 132 S Main St
JANUARY 8, 2025 - JANUARY 25, 2026
January 8-25, 2026Take a trip around the world, all without leaving the St. Croix Valley! Between January 8 - 25, explore 16 local bars and restaurants offering specialty menu items with global flair. Each establishment represents one of the 16 countries competing in the 2026 World Snow Sculpting Championship, giving you a delicious way to experience diverse cultures right in your backyard.
SUNDAY, JANUARY 11, 2026
The Art of Snow Sculpting: In Conversation with the World Snow Celebration
4:30PM
Location: Minneapolis Institute of Art
2400 Third Avenue South, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55404
Join master snow sculptors from Teams Denmark, Mexico, and Turkey for a fascinating conversation where they share what it takes to create their massive artworks for the annual World Snow Sculpting Championship, part of the World Snow Celebration in Stillwater, Minnesota. This panel brings together some of the world's most talented sculptors to discuss the artistry, teamwork, and innovation that transform their artistic visions into breathtaking masterpieces. Hear firsthand stories from the artists who shape blocks of snow into ephemeral art forms that capture the spirit of their homelands.
TUESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2026
OPENING CEREMONY
5:00 PM
Step into a Winter Wonderland at the World Snow Sculpting Championship Opening Ceremony in Stillwater, MN - Unveiling the Magic on Tuesday evening, January 13, 2026!
Mark your calendar for a night of enchantment, art, and celebration. Be there as Stillwater transforms into the epicenter of the global snow sculpting scene!Enjoy a mesmerizing evening of artistry and festivity as we kick off the World Snow Sculpting Championship with a breathtaking Opening Ceremony. Be part of an event that promises to transport you to a world of enchantment and wonder!
Location: JX Event Center, 123 2nd St N #102, Stillwater, Minnesota 55082
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 14, 2026
EVENT KICK-OFF CEREMONY
9:00 AM
Location: Cub Stage Inside the Xcel Energy Powerhouse Hospitality Tent
Join us in Lowell Park at 9 AM as we welcome 16 incredible international teams from across the globe to our charming riverfront city. Together, we’ll celebrate creativity, community, and a shared love of winter art! We’ll begin with a special welcome from the Chamber Foundation and Mayor of Stillwater, followed by the presentation of the 2026 Event Button Contest Winner—a talented Stillwater Area High School student whose design will represent this year’s celebration! Sculptors will have exactly 72 hours to create their vision transforming snow into spectacular works of art! Let’s give a big Stillwater welcome to our visiting artists and show them what Minnesota hospitality is all about. Grab your coffee, bundle up, and come cheer on the sculptors!
PONY NIGHT
4 PM - 9PM
Location: Xcel Energy Powerhouse Hospitality Tent
Join us for a night of celebrating Pony Pride with Stillwater
Area Public Schools. Enjoy live performances, art experiences, and a
night of community as the sculptors work is starting to take shape along the river. Live music from 7-9 PM
XCEL ENERGY POWERHOUSE HOSPITALITY TENT
9AM - 9PM
SNOW SLIDE
4- 8 PM
Location: South Lowell Park, Stillwater, Minnesota 55082
THURSDAY, JANUARY 15, 2026
XCEL ENERGY POWERHOUSE HOSPITALITY TENT
10AM - 10PM
BINGO
5PM - 7PM
Brought to you by the Bayport American Legion
Location: Xcel Energy Powerhouse Hospitality Tent
Turn the heat up in the Xcel Energy Powerhouse Hospitality
Tent at the World Snow Celebration! Get competitive at Bingo hosted by
the Bayport American Legion from 5-7 and stick around to enjoy the
musical stylings of Michael Olson of All Mic'd Up from 7-9.
LIVE MUSIC
7PM-9PM
Location: Cub Stage Inside the Xcel Energy Powerhouse Hospitality Tent
SNOW SLIDE
4PM - 8PM
Location: South Lowell Park, Stillwater, Minnesota 55082
FRIDAY, JANUARY 16, 2026
XCEL ENERGY POWERHOUSE HOSPITALITY TENT
10AM - 10PM
LIVE MUSIC * DAVE BURKART
6PM - 9PM
Location: Cub Stage Inside the Xcel Energy Powerhouse Hospitality Tent
HEALTHPARTNERS INDOOR MARKET
3PM - 7PM
Location: Water Street Inn, Stillwater, Minnesota 55082
Warm Up and Shop Local at the HealthPartners Indoor Market!
As part of the World Snow Celebration, the always-popular HealthPartners Indoor Market returns - conveniently located inside the Water Street Inn!
Step inside, shake off the chill, and explore an amazing lineup of sponsors, local artisans, and winter-themed vendors offering unique items inspired by snow, the season, and the celebration itself.
You will find plenty of grab-and-go treasures - from cozy winter gear to event souvenirs - all available for purchase (cash or card accepted!). Don't miss The Snow Store in the ballroom, featuring commemorative World Snow Celebration merchandise like hats, gloves, T-shirts, and more!
All the fun happens in the ballroom on the main level of the Water Street Inn - and while you're there, be sure to enjoy food and drinks at Charlie's Restaurant!
Come shop, chat, and celebrate winter with us at the HealthPartners Indoor Market - during the World Snow Celebration, January 16-18, 2026!
SNOW SLIDE
4PM - 8PM
Location: South Lowell Park, Stillwater, Minnesota 55082
CANDLELIGHT WINTER WALK
5PM - 8PM
Location: Mulberry Point, North End of Lowell Park
Experience the beauty of the Browns Creek Trail and
embrace the winter fresh air as you walk along a candlelit path next to the scenic St. Croix River. Join us at your leisure anytime between 5:00 - 8:00 pm. The outdoors in the winter is beautiful and healthy. Brought to you by HealthPartners.
Enjoy hot drinks and cookies at the end of the walk and then join us in the Xcel Energy Powerhouse Hospitality Tent for live music
until 9pm.
FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS
5PM - 9PM
Location: Mulberry Point, North End of Lowell Park
The sculptures are really coming to life now with just one
more sleep before they are complete. Come on out to view the magic and
join us in the indoor venue or the party patio afterwards. LIVE MUSIC:
Flannel Brothers from 3-6 pm and Dave Burkhardt from 6-9 pm.
SATURDAY, JANUARY 17, 2026
HEALTHPARTNERS INDOOR MARKET
10 AM - 5 PM
Location: Water Street Inn, Stillwater, Minnesota 55082
Warm Up and Shop Local at the HealthPartners Indoor Market!
As part of the World Snow Celebration, the always-popular HealthPartners Indoor Market returns - conveniently located inside the Water Street Inn!
Step inside, shake off the chill, and explore an amazing lineup of sponsors, local artisans, and winter-themed vendors offering unique items inspired by snow, the season, and the celebration itself.
You will find plenty of grab-and-go treasures - from cozy winter gear to event souvenirs - all available for purchase (cash or card accepted!). Don't miss The Snow Store in the ballroom, featuring commemorative World Snow Celebration merchandise like hats, gloves, T-shirts, and more!
All the fun happens in the ballroom on the main level of the Water Street Inn - and while you're there, be sure to enjoy food and drinks at Charlie's Restaurant!
Come shop, chat, and celebrate winter with us at the HealthPartners Indoor Market - during the World Snow Celebration, January 16-18, 2026!
XCEL ENERGY POWERHOUSE HOSPITALITY TENT
10AM - 10PM
MUSIC IN THE TENT
10AM - 10PM
Location: Cub Stage Inside the Xcel Energy Hospitality Tent
SNOW SLIDE
10AM-8PM
Location: South Lowell Park, Stillwater, Minnesota 55082
CLOSING AWARDS CEREMONY
6:00 PM
Location: Outdoor Stage by the Xcel Energy Powerhouse Hospitality Tent
The official Awards Ceremony, where the winners of the World Snow Sculpting Championship are announced. This inspiring finale honors the creativity, skill, and dedication of the international sculpting teams who transform Stillwater into a winter gallery of breathtaking art.
Awards are presented in five categories:
1st Place
2nd Place
3rd Place
People’s Choice – voted on by the community
Artist Choice – awarded by fellow sculptors
Guests will have the opportunity to experience and meet all 16 teams from across the globe who brought their vision and artistry to Minnesota. Together, we celebrate not only the champions of the competition, but also the spirit of unity and cultural exchange that defines the World Snow Celebration. SPF 30 will be playing live in the tent from noon – 3 pm, awards at 6 pm, fire spinners by the outdoor patio at 7 pm and DJ until 10 pm in the tent.
SUNDAY, JANUARY 18, 2026
HEALTHPARTNERS INDOOR MARKET
10 AM - 5 PM
Location: Water Street Inn, Stillwater, Minnesota 55082
Warm Up and Shop Local at the HealthPartners Indoor Market!
As part of the World Snow Celebration, the always-popular HealthPartners Indoor Market returns - conveniently located inside the Water Street Inn!
Step inside, shake off the chill, and explore an amazing lineup of sponsors, local artisans, and winter-themed vendors offering unique items inspired by snow, the season, and the celebration itself.
You will find plenty of grab-and-go treasures - from cozy winter gear to event souvenirs - all available for purchase (cash or card accepted!). Don't miss The Snow Store in the ballroom, featuring commemorative World Snow Celebration merchandise like hats, gloves, T-shirts, and more!
All the fun happens in the ballroom on the main level of the Water Street Inn - and while you're there, be sure to enjoy food and drinks at Charlie's Restaurant!
Come shop, chat, and celebrate winter with us at the HealthPartners Indoor Market - during the World Snow Celebration, January 16-18, 2026!
XCEL ENERGY POWERHOUSE HOSPITALITY TENT
10AM - 6PM
MUSIC IN THE TENT
12PM - 6PM
Location: Cub Stage Inside the Xcel Energy Powerhouse Tent
PANCAKE BREAKFAST
9AM - NOON
All you can eat Pancakes for $12.95, add meat or eggs for an additional $5. Kids under 6 years of age, one pancake and scrambled eggs $5.95
Location: Charlie’s Pub, Water Street Inn
101 Water St S, Stillwater, MN 55082
SNOW SLIDE
10AM - 5PM
Location: South Lowell Park, Stillwater, Minnesota 55082
BINGO
1PM - 3PM
Brought to you by the Bayport American Legion
Location: Charlie’s Pub, Water Street Inn
101 Water St S, Stillwater, MN 55082
Join us for Bingo hosted by the Bayport American Legion!
MASCOT RACE
11AM
Get ready to cheer (and laugh!) as your favorite local mascots dash, wobble, and slide their way through the World Snow Celebration Mascot Race! These costumed characters will battle it out for bragging rights, and maybe a warm cup of cocoa at the finish line.
Come for the competition, stay for the comedy, and see which mascot has what it takes to be the fastest in Stillwater!
Then stick around for even more fun with the Dashing Through the Snow Kids’ Race and the World Snow Frosty Fox 5K, brought to you by Wild River Running, perfect for runners of all ages to join in the frosty festivities!
FROSTY FOX 5K RUN
12 PM
Join Us For the First Annual World Snow Frosty Fox 5K!
Run a scenic course along the St. Croix River, enjoy internationally renowned snow sculptures, and finish with a breathtaking view of Stillwater’s iconic Lift Bridge.
Location for all the Runs: Meet in the Water Street Inn Lobby
101 Water St S, Stillwater, MN 55082
Brought to you by Wild River Running
SATURDAY, JANUARY 24, 2026
LIFT BRIDGE FROZEN CLASSIC
Get ready for the First Annual Lift Bridge Frozen Classic, a one-day broomball showdown on the scenic banks of the St. Croix River in downtown Stillwater! Taking place on January 24, 2026, as part of the World Snow Celebration, this event brings together teams, families, and fans for a full day of icy competition and community fun.
SUNDAY, JANUARY 25, 2026
FAT BIKE RALLY
10 AM - 2 PM
The Fat Bike Rally Presented by Chilkoot Velo Cycling Club, is the perfect winter outdoor activity to include in the World Snow Celebration. Participants will have a large window of time during the day to complete the course. Participants can either ride or race the three timed segments on the course.
