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 30 – February 2, 2025  | Events all throughout the day; see more schedule details here.
Where: Winona Ice Park and Downtown Winona (about 30 minutes from La Crosse)
Admission: Pre-registration required, pricing varies for the Ice Fest and 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 partake in social gatherings with live music and entertainment.
Snowflake Ski Jumping Tournament
When: January 31 – February 1, 2025Â
Times: Opening ceremonies – Friday 6:30 PM, Saturday Junior Tournament 9:45 AM and Big Hill Tournament at 12:30 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 presale, $25 at the gate | Free admission for ages 12 & Under and Military/Veterans
Join thousands of spectators and enjoy a whole weekend of fun at the Ski Jump Tournament! This year, there will be international ski jumpers from the US, Norway, Poland and Slovenia at the tournament. Ski Jumpers 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! Please note there’s a $5 cover in addition to the button purchase in order to attend the music.Â
Social-ICE
When: February 7 – 8, 2025 | 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, photo booths, and illuminated games!
For more detailed information on the event, check out Rochester Local’s Everything You Need to Know About Social-ICE Guide!
Winter Roots FestivalÂ
When: February 8, 2025  | 12:15 PM – 10:15 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: $25 if purchased in advance, $30 day of event
General Admission + Early Entry Bloody Mary Experience: $35 if purchased in advance, $40 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, Them Coulee Boys, The Remainders, and more! Gain early entry access with the Bloody Mary Experience, where you’ll get a complimentary Bloody Mary or Signature Festival Beer (with a 2025 Festival pint glass) and build your own Bloody Mary Skewer. Early entry starts at 11:30 AM.Â
There is also free entry for the Artist & Makers Market by Ho-Chunk Nation Artists and Hunger Task Force Raffle.Â
Grumpy Old Men Festival
When: February 21 – 22, 2025 | 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 live music, a polar plunge (if you dare!), a lighted ATV/UTV parade, beer garden, comedy magic show, curling tournament, a viewing of Grumpy Old Men, and so much more at this winter festival!
