Located near the state’s border with Canada, the charming town of Ely is known as a gateway to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, and I’ve always considered it to be a top winter destination in the Land of 10,000 (frozen) Lakes. One of the things that makes this town so great is that each year, during 10 days in February, it hosts its Ely Winter Festival in Minnesota. With plenty of activities and things to see, this laid-back event is just about the perfect way to celebrate the Bold North’s often-maligned winter season.

The northern Minnesota town of Ely sparkles in the winter, but sometimes folks need to be reminded just how awesome the season can be.
Steve Peterson/Google Reviews
And that's where Ely Winter Festival comes in.
Ely Winter Festival/Facebook
For more than three decades, the community has come together to celebrate the season during 10 days of February.
Ely Winter Festival
Whiteside Park is ground zero for the festival, where you can find attractions like a skating rink or a snow maze.
Guided snowshoe and cross-country excursions are offered during the festival.
Ely Winter Festival
Fat-tire biking and kick sledding are also popular activities.
Ely Winter Festival/Facebook
One of the biggest draws, though, is the snow sculpting symposium.
Ely Winter Festival

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It's not a competition; rather, it's an art exhibition in the medium of snow for all to enjoy.
Ely Winter Festival/Facebook
The creative process, itself, is a key part of the symposium. Folks are encouraged to walk among the professional sculpting teams and watch their works take shape.
Ely Winter Festival/Facebook
There is a contest, however, for amateur sculptors who want to try their hand at the art form.
There are also plenty of ways to stay warm at the festival, including fire pits and warming tents.
Ely Winter Festival
Tummy-warming food helps, too.
Ely Winter Festival
Running concurrently with the Winter Fest is the Ely Art Walk, which transforms the entire town into a gallery.
Ely Winter Festival/Facebook
It's a fantastic way to explore the town and appreciate the creativity of the artists displaying their work.
You can even pick up some Winter Festival merch crafted by local artisans!
Ely Winter Fest/Facebook

The 2024 Ely Winter Festival takes place February 1 through 11. For more details, event information, and an updated schedules of activities, visit the Ely Winter Festival website. If you’re traveling from out of town, you’ll find that there are a decent number of lodging options in Ely and the surrounding area – and be sure to pack for cold weather!

Have you attended the Ely Winter Festival in Minnesota? Tell us about your experience in the comments.

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