Minneapolis is embracing the chill of winter in a unique way this season, through a series of community events that include everything from snow sculptures to game nights. Downtown Parks, managed by the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board, is presenting "Carved in Snow: Stories of Land & Legacy," an installation of Indigenous art that celebrates a connection to the land. According to a bulletin posted on the Park Board's website, these sculptures are the brainchild of artist Heather Friedli and her team, Team Kwe. Rooted in Indigenous culture, they symbolize the four seasons and are installed in four downtown parks.
The project involves local Indigenous youth in its creation, providing a hands-on learning experience. The four-part series of snow sculptures began on January 5 at Mill Ruins Park and will continue until February 6 at Graco Park. But it's not just about looking at the art. On Thursday evenings at Graco Park, residents are invited to partake in themed game nights filled with cards and classic games, movement games, strategy, and even some community picks.
Adding to the wintry charm, the parks are also hosting Ice Lantern Flyer promotions on Fridays and Saturdays. A hands-on opportunity awaits park-goers who can craft ice lanterns to light up the nights. Detailed in the same Park Board announcement, this DIY activity comes complete with fireside warmth and a place to retreat from the cold. Additionally, Graco Park is offering "Sew Far, Sew Good" classes for those looking to advance their sewing skills, while Water Works Park invites literary enthusiasts for riveting discussions around Kao Kalia Yang's "Where Rivers Part."
And for the fashion-forward or eco-conscious, the parks are providing Visible Repairs classes, a chance to learn mending techniques to breathe new life into well-loved clothes. As stated in the Park Board's notice, the program is open to all with a fee for both residents and non-residents, though spaces are limited. Altogether, these activities foster not just art and culture but sustainability and community engagement as well.
For more information or to register for classes, interested parties can visit the official Downtown Parks Team website. The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board invites everyone to these community gatherings, where the cold winter season is transformed into an opportunity for warmth through creativity and shared experiences.
