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

Six miles of winter trails will be illuminated by candles to
guide you through an annual winter tradition at Wild River! Skiers, walkers and
snowshoers are welcome to take to the trails. The trail center and visitor
center are good places to warm up. Marvel at an enormous bonfire and
participate in activities throughout the park. James Everest, the
artist-in-residence at Wild River, is offering a sound garden outside the
visitor center. There's live music inside. Find refreshments at the trail

Twilight Trails 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

***Safety concerns have caused the cancelation of the event for the January 11 Session. 

The road/parking area at the warming shelter along with the trails are covered in ice that make for unsafe walking conditions, especially at night. Please mark your calendars for the Saturday, February 8th event from 6-9pm.

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.