Shorewood’s Arctic Fever Festival

Shorewood prepares for its annual winter festival.
Olaf the snowman makes a furry friend, and snow and ice sculptures abound.

One of the largest annual festivals on Shorewood’s side of Lake Minnetonka is Arctic Fever, a celebration of Minnesota’s unique winter charm and favorite (chilly!) outdoor activities.

The 11th annual Arctic Fever Festival kicks off on January 12. All weekend, guests can enjoy a variety of events, games, food and entertainment. (With the exception of food and beverages, activities are free.) Some of the festival’s most beloved events include a snow sculpture garden, a fat-tire bike race, dog-sled rides, sleigh rides and a princess brunch.

The snow sculpture garden is hosted at Badger Park and South Shore Center on Friday from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Guests can tour the sculptures and vote for their favorites, while enjoying pizza from Joey Nova’s and beer from Excelsior Brewing Co. On Saturday, check out the fat-tire bike race, beginning and ending at Excelsior Brewing Co. Also on Saturday, Freeman Park is the location for dog-sled and sleigh rides. While you wait in line for a ride, enjoy s’mores roasted over a cozy bonfire. On Sunday, Lord Fletcher’s hosts the popular princess brunch from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Reservations required; call 952.471.8513.

Arctic Fever Festival
January 12-15
Event locations and times vary; check online for details.