Dec 31, 2019

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2. See the Saint Paul Winter Carnival

The Saint Paul Winter Carnival happens from Jan. 23 to Feb. 2 in 2020. Most events are about half an hour away from Lakeville in Rice Park, Landmark Center, or the Minnesota State Fairgrounds. People call this carnival the coolest celebration on Earth, and it’s been a local tradition since 1886.

This fun carnival attracts more than 250,000 visitors per year, and events include a royal coronation, the Moon Glow Pedestrian Parade, the King Boreas Grand Day Parade, the Securian Financial Winter Run, and the 2020 Golf Classic. Kids can explore a snow maze, see snow sculptures, go down a giant snow slide, and more at Vulcan Snow Park.

3. Enjoy the Slopes

Buck Hill has been a popular place for skiing in Lakeville for more than 50 years, and it offers 15 different runs for skiers and snowboarders of all ability levels. It also has one of the best snowmaking systems in the region and 11 lifts, including a triple chairlift.

Skiing and snowboarding lessons happen every weekday at 10:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m., and 7 p.m. On weekends and holidays, you can still take a lesson at 4:30 p.m. Erich Sailer, an experienced coach for the Buck Hill Ski Racing Team, joined the U.S. National Ski Hall of Fame in 2006. Buck Hill also has three places to eat: The Black Diamond Restaurant, The Main Chalet Cafe, and The Waffle Bar. It’s open from mid-November through March.

4. Check Out Ritter Farm Park

Ritter Farm Park is on the shores of Lake Marion in Lakeville. You can go ice fishing, cross-country skiing, or snowmobiling there. There’s also an archery range and a dog park. The city rents snowshoes for hiking and the park has miles of picturesque trails. It’s open every day from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., and admission is free. Whether you feel like staying indoors and keeping warm or getting a good look at the winter scenery, there are plenty of fun activities in Lakeville. You can go shopping, look at local art, get some exercise, attend fun events, observe wildlife, and more.