It wouldn’t be a Minnesota winter without plenty of ice skating, and the annual Mahtomedi Winter Skating Party is a great way for the entire family to celebrate the cold-weather season. Sponsored by the Mahtomedi Parks Commission with help from local businesses, the event is chock-full of winter fun, including not only free skating but horse-drawn sleigh rides, refreshments and a bonfire to keep attendees toasty-warm despite the chill in the air.
The party began nearly 15 years ago and has since expanded to become a highly anticipated and well-attended event. Community is the central focus on the party, which is a great incentive for local businesses to chip in and help the Parks Commission make the entire event, from food to entertainment, free and open to all.
The party is the perfect way to combat the inevitable cabin fever that tends to creep in during this time of year. “It’s cold and it’s winter,” says Bruce Thielen, public works director. “Most Minnesotans are just looking for a way to get out and enjoy themselves. There’s a bonfire outside, and horses, and it’s just good family fun.”
Mahtomedi Winter Skating Party: Free, but bring your own skates. 12 p.m. District Education Center Ice Rinks, 1520 Mahtomedi Ave., Mahtomedi. 651.773.9730.
