Weekend Best Bets: Jan. 28-31

This weekend around the Twin Cities: Virtual TwinsFest, St. Paul Winter Carnival, Circus Juventas, and more

2020 People's Choice: "The Asset" by Pig's Eye Pirates
2020 People’s Choice at the St. Paul Winter Carnival: “The Asset” by Pig’s Eye Pirates

Provided

Winter Carnival Beats Winter Blues

What: Kickoff Weekend of the St. Paul Winter Carnival
When: Jan. 28-Feb. 7
Where: Variety of sites around St. Paul (see calendar for locations)

This weekend kicks off St. Paul’s annual Winter Carnival, but it might look a little different this year. Never fear: You can still watch the magic from the safety of your car, participate in a socially distanced ski race and enjoy virtual carnival events. This weekend features the opening of the Drive Thru Ice & Snow Sculpture Park (Jan. 28-Feb. 7, hours vary), the Blood Drive (Jan. 28, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.), King Boreas Tour de Phalen Ski Events (Jan. 30), Virtual Family Day (Jan. 30 & Feb. 6), 2021 Puzzle Contest (8 a.m. on Jan. 30-2 p.m. on Jan. 31), Securian Financial Winter Run (Jan. 30, 9 a.m.-2 p.m.), Saint Paul Hotel Hot Chocolate (Jan. 30, noon-3 p.m.), 3K Prologue at Battle Creek Nordic Ski Race (Jan. 31), and the virtual Klondike Kate Cabaret (Jan. 31, 10-11:30 a.m.).

MIA, Not M.I.A.

What: Minneapolis Institute of Arts reopens in-person exhibits
When: Jan. 28
Where: 2400 Third Ave S., Minneapolis

While enjoying artwork from the comfort of your couch has been a surprising treat, Twin Cities art lovers will be excited to hear that the Minneapolis Institute of Arts is reopening in-person exhibits starting Jan. 28. Check out some of their cool new features, such as Freedom Rising: I Am the Story, which examines African-descended legacies through fiber arts, and In the Presence of Our Ancestors: Southern Perspectives in African American Art, which brings together visual storytelling from Black artists in the South.

A Weekend at the Circus

What: Circus Juventas presents A Hygge Holiday 
When: Jan. 28-31, shows at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m.
Where: 1270 Montreal Ave., St. Paul

St. Paul’s favorite youth circus is excited to be back with their holiday show, A Hygge Holiday, premiering this weekend with socially distanced, masked-up considerations. This cheery and boisterous show follows a group of friends on a ski trip who get stuck in a snowstorm and seek refuge in a cabin filled with wonder.

Minnesota’s Favorite Pastime Goes Virtual

What: Virtual TwinsFest
When: Jan. 30, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
Where: Virtual via Twins social media platforms

Can’t wait for Spring Training to support your Minnesota Twins? This Saturday, get a virtual front row seat to see your favorite icons and mascots at Virtual TwinsFest. Learn hitting from Ryan Jeffers and Justin Morneau. Listen to a special performance by Tim McGraw. Check out the silent auction. Tune in for a table reading of The Sandlot by Twins players and staff. Best of all, it’s free for all fans.

Go Wild for New Cider

What: Introducing Ruby Hard Cider by Wild State Cider and Fair State Brewing Cooperative 
When: Available for purchase starting Jan. 29 (statewide in MN and northwest in WI)
Where: Order online or pickup at Wild State Cider, 2515 West Superior St., Duluth

Check out Duluth-based Wild State Cider’s brand new flavor, available starting this Friday. It’s grapefruit-y and semi-dry, with a subtle hint of pine. Likely to squash your winter blues with some bright and fruity hops.