The holiday season may be over, but that doesn’t mean an end to celebrations. All over the country and the world, different places and peoples mark winter with all manner of festivals, celebrations and events dedicated to this wonderful time of year. Use some time off to travel as a family and celebrate winter, rather than hiding from it.

St. Paul in Minnesota has a lot to offer families, including the oldest and largest winter celebration in the country. Started in 1886 to win a bet with a reporter, St. Paul’s Winter Carnival proves year after year that the city isn’t too cold for people in the winter. See what 350,000 people every year are talking about.

This year it runs from January 22nd – February 1st, 2015

128 years is a long time to learn a trick or two, and St. Paul’s Winter Carnival seems to have learned them all. This mega-event is packed with so many activities and exciting things to do that any family can find something just their pace. Known for certain signature events, including Rice Park, the Beer Dabbler, their 3 parades and snow park events, you can occupy yourself on these “staples” alone. However, more adventurous families may also want to check out the Securian Winter Run or the Pioneer Press Treasure Hunt. Most events are low or no cost and transportation is a snap.

See The Calendar for an overview and schedule to help you plan your trip. There is also a dedicated section for Family Activities. Finally, the visitor information page will help you with hammering out the final details of your trip, and make your family’s Winter Carnival dreams a reality!

To learn more about the festival, visit St. Paul’s official Winter Carnival page for more information.

And to help you save money on a family adventure in Saint Paul, check out some of these great deals. Please note, that all deals are current as of the date this article was published but some do expire. Please see the applicable website for terms, conditions and restrictions.

You can save 30% on an Amtrak fare to the event when you use this link.
Hertz offers savings of $50 on your Weekly Rental this winter. Use code: 210114

Also be sure to check out our similar winter festival tips about Chicago’s Winter Festival, Ottawa’s Winterlude, Winter Carnival in Steamboat Springs, SnowFest in Lake Tahoe and Quebec’s Winter Carnival.

You might also enjoy our tips on Ski Towns for Non-Skiers in the US West.

Photo Courtesy of St Paul Winter Carnival

Please note that some of the links included in this piece are affiliate links and in such case, Real Family Trips will receive a small commission if you make a purchase after clicking on the link.