Anoka Winterfest 2026: A Week of Winter Fun
If you’re looking for fun winter activities in the Twin Cities area, Anoka Winterfest 2026 is a must-do event. Taking place over five days in mid-January, this beloved Anoka tradition brings the community together with outdoor adventures, creative activities, and family-friendly fun — many of them free.
Whether you love glowing night skates, cozy cocoa by a luminary trail, or friendly competitions, Anoka Winterfest is a great excuse to get out and enjoy winter in Minnesota.
Anoka Winterfest 2026 Event Details
Dates: Monday, January 12 through Friday, January 16, 2026
Location: Multiple locations throughout Anoka, Minnesota
Cost: Mix of free and low-cost activities
Good for: Families, couples, friends, and anyone looking for winter fun near the Twin Cities
Organizers Website: https://365twincities.com/AnokaWinterfest2026
Daily Schedule & Activities
Monday, January 12 – Speed Puzzle Competition
Time: 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM
Location: Green Haven Golf Course, 2800 Green Haven Road
Cost: $30 per team
Kick off Winterfest with a fast-paced puzzle competition. Teams of up to four people race against the clock to complete their puzzle. Space is limited, making this a fun and competitive way to start the week.
Tuesday, January 13 – Winter Crafts
Afternoon Session:
Time: 12:30 PM
Location: Anoka Senior Center, 1500 6th Avenue
Note: This session is full
Evening Session:
Time: 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM
Location: Rumriver Art Center, 2665 4th Avenue, Suite 103
Cost: Registration required
Get creative with winter-themed craft projects guided by local artists. This is a relaxed, hands-on activity that’s perfect for adults and older kids.
Wednesday, January 14 – Luminary Trail, Cocoa & S’mores
Time: 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM
Location: Green Haven Golf Course, 2800 Green Haven Road
Cost: Free
One of the most popular Winterfest events, the luminary trail invites visitors to ski, snowshoe, fat-tire bike, or walk along softly lit winter paths. Afterward, warm up with free hot cocoa and s’mores while spending time with local police and firefighters.
Bring your own equipment if you plan to ski or snowshoe.
Thursday, January 15 – Glow Disc Golf & Free Skate
Glow Disc Golf
Time: 6:00 PM
Location: The Cedars at Green Haven Disc Golf Course
Cost: $5 buy-in
Enjoy a nighttime round of glow disc golf with illuminated discs and baskets. The top third of players receive payouts, adding a little friendly competition to the fun.
Try Hockey for Free / Open Skate
Time: 6:10 PM to 7:10 PM
Location: Anoka Area Hockey Association rink
Cost: Free
A great opportunity for beginners and families to try hockey or enjoy open skating. Bring your own skates and helmet. Preregistration is encouraged.
Friday, January 16 – Glow Skate & Sled
Time: 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Locations:
• Ice rinks throughout Anoka
• George Enloe Park sledding hill (weather permitting)
Cost: Free
Wrap up Winterfest with glowing ice skates and sledding fun. Glow sticks will be handed out at warming houses, creating a festive atmosphere at rinks around the city.
Why Anoka Winterfest Is Worth Checking Out
Anoka Winterfest is a perfect example of Minnesota winter done right. It blends outdoor adventure with creative and community-focused activities, offering something for all ages. With most events free or very affordable, it’s an easy win for anyone looking for things to do near Minneapolis and St. Paul in January.
If you’re searching for winter festivals in the Twin Cities, family-friendly January events, or unique things to do in Anoka, this is one event you won’t want to miss.
Organizers Website: https://365twincities.com/AnokaWinterfest2026