Sports, Health & Wellness

Minnesota hockey players take to the rinks in pond hockey competitions. Excelsior’s North American Pond Hockey tournament includes four divisions, divided by gender and age group. The weekend also features a performance by Hitchville on Friday night. All proceeds benefit charitable causes, including Defending the Blue Line, which provides funds so kids in military families can play hockey. $500 per men’s team, $300 per women’s team. Free for spectators. Games begin at 9 a.m. on Friday and Saturday. 612.747.3030. Read more about North American Pond Hockey Championships

You’re cold, shivering and a bit stir-crazy. Your diagnosis? Arctic fever. Explore Tonka Bay, Shorewood and Excelsior to combat the winter blues. The weekend kicks off with a snow sculpture competition on Friday; view masterpieces while nibbling on pizza from Joey Nova’s. All three cities also host numerous events throughout the weekend, including wagon rides and bonfires. Free. Check the website for a full list of events, times and locations. 952.474.7635. Read more about Arctic Fever

Embrace the beauty of a Minnesota winter by staying active. The Lake Minnetonka area is home to a handful of outdoor skating rinks featuring warming houses as well as skiing trails. Park warming houses are open through the end of February. Check the website for park times and regulations. 952.939.8200. Read more about Outdoor Skating and Skiing

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The Lake Minnetonka Figure Skating Club (LMFSC) is hosting its 11th annual Winter Extravaganza event on Saturday, December 7.  Enjoy an afternoon of skating exhibitions, silent auction bidding and holiday treats while helping those in need obtain warm winter clothing. Read more about Lake Minnetonka Figure Skating Club's 11th Annual Winter Extravaganza

Gaze at the stars indoors in the star dome at the Lowry Nature Center. Learn the ins and outs of winter constellations and hear myths and legends of their creations. Make glow–in–the–dark constellations to adorn your ceiling. Give back during the holidays by donating $1 to the Wonder Fund, an organization that creates park opportunities for school groups. 763.694.7650. Read more about Stars of Winter

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Get into the holiday spirit early and channel your inner turkey. Hosted by Chaska high school DECA students and the Chaska Rotary Club, the event will feature three races including a 5K, a quarter-mile, and a 1-mile race for kids. All racers receive a timing chip, T-shirt, snacks and beverages. Free child care is provided and proceeds benefit the End Polio Now Campaign and Chaska DECA. 7:30–10:30 a.m. 612.386.6155. Read more about Chaska Turkey Trot 5K and Kids' Run