There’s no denying we love our festivals here in the Midwest, and a little snow and cold won’t stop us from celebrating! From dazzling lights and lively music to snow-filled activities and cozy gatherings, these area winter festivals bring joy and excitement to the frosty months. Add some sparkle to your season by checking out these must-visit winter festivals in and around La Crosse!
Winona Ice Festival
When: January 29 – February 1, 2026 | Events all throughout the day; see more schedule details here.
Where: Winona Ice Park (about 30 minutes from La Crosse). Enjoy free transit from downtown Winona to the Ice Park, too!
Admission: Pre-registration required, pricing varies for the different Climbing Clinics
The Winona Ice Fest is a collaborative event between the City of Winona, the Recreation Alliance of Winona, and Big River Climbing Guides. This winter festival celebrates the Winona Ice Park, where attendees can participate in various ice climbing clinics suitable for all skill levels, enjoy equipment demonstrations, and learn all about climbing. Live music, free yoga, and community hikes fill up the weekend, too!
Snowflake Ski Jumping Tournament
When: February 6 – 7, 2026
Jump Times: Friday at 7 PM | Saturday at 1 PM
Where: Snowflake Ski & Golf Club, Westby (about 45 minutes from La Crosse)
Admission: Buttons can be purchased at numerous locations in the area. General Admission: $20 Pre-sale, $25 at the gate | Free admission for ages 12 & Under and Active Military, Veterans, and Military/Veteran’s Spouses
Join thousands of spectators and enjoy a whole weekend of fun at the Ski Jump Tournament! Ski Jumpers from all around the world compete by going down the jump, oftentimes surpassing 50 miles per hour and flying hundreds of feet! Food and beverages are available for purchase at the winter festival grounds, and there’s live music, too. Friday night, High Mileage takes the stage; Saturday night, DJ Dom will have the beats! Please note, there is an additional $5 cover for the music.
Social-ICE
When: February 6 – 7, 2026 | 4 PM – 10 PM both days, plus 1 – 4 PM for the Saturday FAM JAM
Where: Peace Plaza, Rochester, MN (about an hour from La Crosse)
Admission: Free
Join the fun at this Rochester winter festival tradition! From themed bars and creative cocktails to nightly DJ dance parties or meet & greets with sled dogs, you’re sure to have a great time. For a more family-friendly day, check out the FAM JAM, where there will be activities like roasting s’mores, dance parties, art activities, photo booths, and illuminated games!
Winter Roots Festival
When: February 14, 2026 | 12 PM – 10 PM
Where: La Crosse Center Riverside Ballroom, La Crosse
Admission: Tickets can be purchased at the La Crosse Center Box Office or on Ticketmaster. We recommend purchasing right from the La Crosse Center to avoid the additional Ticketmaster fees! The Box Office is open Monday – Friday from 11 AM – 4 PM.
General Admission: $30 if purchased in advance, $35 day of event
General Admission + Early Entry Bloody Mary Experience: $40 if purchased in advance, $45 day of event
Celebrate some good ‘ol Wisconsin favorites with live music, food, local beer, and spirits! Performances this year are by Horseshoes & Hand Grenades, Gregg Hall & The Wrecking Ball, Reed Grimm & Heatbox, Bryce Thomaschefsky Band, and more! We recommend diving into the Bloody Mary Experience, where you’ll get a complimentary drink, a 2026 Festival pint glass, and early access one hour prior to general admission. Early entry starts at 11 AM.
A portion of the ticket sale proceeds will be given to the Hunger Task Force and La Crosse Special Olympics.
Grumpy Old Men Festival
When: February 27 – 28, 2026 | See schedule of events here.
Where: Wabasha, MN (about an hour from La Crosse)
Admission: Free admission
Wabasha hosts the Grumpy Old Men Festival each year to celebrate the iconic movie, which was filmed in Wabasha! There’s no shortage to do at this festival – you’ll be able to experience an indoor and outdoor market, ice fishing tournament, curling fest, a beer garden, lighted parade, Grumpy plunge, showings of the Grumpy Old Men movie, and so much more!
