Rochester's First 50 Years of Flight (In person or Zoom)

Anyone who lives in Rochester and travels by air is familiar with RST, but have you heard of Graham Field, Lobb Field or Rochester Airways? From county fair exhibitions to helping the Allies win World War II. Join us at the History Center of Olmsted County on January 18, 2024, at 7pm as History Center volunteer Lee Hilgendorf shares photos and stories from Rochester's first 50 years of flight.
This program is offered both in person or by Zoom, be sure to obtain the ticket that fits you best at olmstedhistory.com/events.

Itasca's Evening Lantern Lit Snowshoe and Ski

Start at the Jacob V. Brower Visitor Center. Trail illuminated along the South Entrance Road approximately 3.5 miles round-trip.

Come out and ski or snowshoe by the light of the stars and kerosene lanterns along the trail. Snowshoe, walk, or ski at your own pace along the lantern lit route during this drop-in program.

NOTES: Program is held outdoors. Dress warmly for outdoor winter conditions. Snowshoe walk/ski is self-guided at your leisure.

Remember a headlamp or flashlight as some portions of the trail can be dark.

Eric Johanson

While creating his new album, 2023’s The Deep and the Dirty, Eric Johanson’s previous album cracked the Top 10 on the Billboard Blues chart. It was his fourth time reaching the Top 10. And for a Louisiana native who’d grown up idolizing bluesmen like Freddie King and Robert Johnson, it felt pretty good. Even so, genre success didn’t discourage Johanson from reaching beyond the blues for The Deep and the Dirty’s eclectic, electrifying songs.

Dave Barnes

Dave has had over 100 songs recorded by other artists such as Florida Georgia Line, Tim McGraw, Reba McEntire, Dan + Shay, Carrie Underwood, NEEDTOBREATHE, Billy Currington, and countless more. His past collaborations include artists Lindsey Stirling, Ingrid Michaelson, and Ben Rector, just to name a few. Dave's new album, 2023’s Featherbrained Wealth Motel is overflowing with feel-good vibes and throw-back melodies.

Candlelight Ski/Snowshoe/Hike -CANCELLED-

Canceled due to lack of snow and potential fire danger.

Five miles of winter trails will be illuminated by candles to guide you through an annual winter tradition at Wild River! Snowshoers, skiers and walkers are welcome to take to the trails. Warm yourself next to an enormous bonfire and participate in activities throughout the park.

Skiers (16 and older) need a $10 daily/$25 annual ski pass. Vehicles must display a $7 daily/$35 annual permit. Permits available at the park or online. The event is canceled if the windchill is below -15F.

Candlelight Ski

Tour the park trails by the warm glow of candlelight! Up to 5 km of easy and intermediate groomed ski trails will be lit from 6 pm to 8:30 pm for this magical night of skiing. Participants over the age of 16 who will be on skis will need a Minnesota Ski Pass, available at the park office. Refreshments will be served in the Visitor Center.

All vehicles entering the park need a valid Minnesota State Park vehicle permit.

Candlelight Event: Snowshoe

Come enjoy an evening in the park by candlelight and moonlight. Snowshoe or walk the trail where you will be guided by the full moon, candles and lanterns. Then come warm up by the wood stove or enjoy snacks and refreshments in the Lakeview warming shelter.

*The lit trail for this event will be on the snowshoe trail in the tamarack bog. No other trails will be lit as our summer hiking trails are ALL groomed ski trails and are closed for the season to all people and pets, except those on skis. Please stay off groomed ski trails at all times unless skiing.

Afton State Park Candlelight Walk

This walk through Afton State Park will be lit with hundreds of candle luminaries for 3 mile loop trail. Enjoy bonfires at the visitor center and half way point. Leashed dogs are welcome. Ice traction devices are always recommended when walking in winter.

Youth Nordic Skiing Club

The program will meet on Thursday’s from 4:00-5:30 pm beginning in January, please see dates below. Join our Youth Nordic Ski Club to learn new skills, make friends, and have fun! We will provide the ski equipment with no additional fee for the participants. Club participants are responsible for their own transportation. Your registration signs your child up for all sessions. Ages 6 to 16.

A Vintage Vegas Christmas with Tommy Ward

Tommy is the epitome of great music." - QUINCY JONES Experience an unforgettable evening this holiday season with Tommy Ward, Las Vegas' own contemporary answer to classic crooners. Tommy's rich and silky voice will transport you to the golden age of Jazz and Big Band. Backed by an all-star 7-piece band featuring some of the finest jazz musicians in the world, you'll hear classic standards from the Great American Songbook, Holiday favorites, Big Band, and more!