It’s Valentine’s Day weekend and there are a number of family activities taking place in the Twin Cities – many of them free! Here are some to consider:
Kids at the Castle at the American Swedish Institute – February 14
Friday, Feb. 14, 11 a.m. to noon
Introducing Kids at the Castle at the American Swedish Institute select Fridays this spring!
In the hour before the museum opens, join ASI for visual play, storytelling, music, and movement inspired by the exhibition Papercut! that will encourage creative young minds and active hands. Recommended for ages 2–5.
Kids at the Castle is free to all participants. Registration not required; check in at the Information Desk by 11 a.m. on the day of the program. Adult accompaniment required. Kids at the Castle Winter/Spring Dates: Feb. 14 and 28; March 14 and 28.
February 14: Hearts and Hugs: making paper Valentine Sticks, storytime with Love Monster and looking for hearts throughout the Turnblad Mansion.
“Woo at the Zoo” at Como Zoo – February 14 – 17
Celebrate love and romance amongst the flowers and animals at Como Park Zoo and Conservatory, February 14-17. Learn about the origins of chocolate, the meanings of flowers, and how the animals ‘woo’ one another. This four-day event, with activities stations and make and take crafts, offers something for all ages.
Sunday afternoon from 4:30-6:30 stroll the Conservatory with your sweetheart sipping wine and enjoying a live concert featuring the Café Accordion Orchestra.
All the activities offered are free to guests.
Tropical Beach Party at the Minnesota Zoo – February 15 -17
It’s all about the sand! Bring the whole family to the Minnesota Zoo’s winter get away – the Tropics Trail at the Zoo. We’ll supply the giant indoor sandbox, palm trees, exotic animals and more.
Activities:
Large indoor sand box – (9:00 – 4:00)
Face Painting – (11:00 – 2:00)
Calypso music – (12:00 – 3:00)
Sand art activity – (11:00 – 2:00)
Keeper talks – Tropics Trail (11:00 & 1:00 each day)
Saturday – Flamingos and Tamarin
Sunday – Tropics Aviary and Komodo dragon
Monday – Tapir and Faces of the African Forest
(Standard admission fees: see here)
“Flake” – Forest Lake Annual Winter Festival –
February 15 – 23
Join the Forest Lake Area Chamber of Commerce and Roberts Family Funeral Home and Cremation Services for the 5th Annual FLake Fest. This years event will recognize the “Olympics” as we have planned several fun filled “Olympic themed” events. Check out the ice sculptures – this year it will be one huge pyramid (that recognize all our Snowflake Sponsors) and a lighted torch, which will be lit during the week-long festival. Lots of FREE events!
“Lost in Love” and Barbie’s Dreamhouse Opening at the Mall of America
Not the cheapest option, but if you’re looking for a very pink way to spend the weekend, Barbie’s Dreamhouse is opening up at the Mall of America!
There are also various Valentine’s weekend deals going on at the Mall of America which you can find out about in their “Lost in Love at MOA” guide on their website.
Otherwise, I recommend checking out the FREE Universe of Light Show nightly at the Mall of America. Check out my review!
Stillwater’s Paint the Town Red – Feb 14 – 15
Historic Stillwater is one of Minnesota’s most Romantic Cities. Join over 30 Main Street merchants, restaurants, and lodging facilities this Valentine’s Weekend as they “Paint The Town Red” for you and your special Valentine! Free carriage rides and special deals at local businesses.
