Things to Do in February in Rochester Minnesota
February in Rochester, Minnesota may be cold, but the Med City comes alive with exciting winter events, community celebrations, and family-friendly activities. From outdoor ice festivals to cozy indoor experiences, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this winter. Here are the top events happening in Rochester this February.
Social-ICE 2026
Date: Friday, February 6 & Saturday, February 7, 2026
Time: Friday 4PM-10PM | Saturday 1PM-10PM (FAM JAM 1PM-4PM)
Location: Peace Plaza, Downtown Rochester
Cost: FREE Admission
Rochester’s signature winter event transforms Peace Plaza into an icy oasis! Enjoy unique themed ice bars from local restaurants serving signature cocktails, full-scale illuminated ice sculptures, live DJ entertainment, and dancing under the winter sky. The family-friendly Social-ICE FAM JAM on Saturday afternoon features winter games, sled dog puppies, mini golf, s’mores, and activities for all ages. Free parking is available downtown on weekends.
Winter Programs at Quarry Hill Nature Center
Date: Saturday, February 7, 2026 and throughout February
Location: Quarry Hill Nature Center, 701 Silver Creek Road NE
Cost: Varies by program
Explore the winter woods at Quarry Hill Nature Center! February programs include snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, winter wildlife tracking, and nature education for all ages. The nature center features indoor exhibits with live animals, outdoor trails through 329 acres of forests and meadows, and hands-on learning experiences. A great way to embrace Minnesota’s winter wonderland!
Eras Tour Dance Lessons at History Center
Date: Beginning Sunday, February 8, 2026 (weekly through April)
Location: History Center of Olmsted County, 1195 West Circle Drive SW
Cost: $10 per lesson ($5 for members) | $55 all-access pass ($30 for members)
Dance through the decades as the History Center of Olmsted County celebrates their centennial with an “Eras Tour” of dance! Learn different dance styles from various decades with weekly lessons leading up to the Grand Dance Celebration on April 25, 2026. No experience or partner required—just come ready to have fun and learn something new!
Rochester Polar Plunge for Special Olympics
Date: Saturday, February 14, 2026 (Valentine’s Day)
Time: 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Location: Foster Arend Park, 4051 E River Road NE, Rochester
Cost: $75 minimum fundraising to participate | FREE for spectators
Take the plunge into freezing cold water for a great cause! The Rochester Polar Plunge, hosted by Special Olympics Minnesota and the Olmsted County Sheriff’s Office, is one of the largest in the state. Over 900 plungers participate annually, raising hundreds of thousands of dollars for Special Olympics athletes. Come dressed in costumes, cheer on participants, and enjoy the community atmosphere. The Rochester Plunge has raised over $4.5 million in its 24-year history!
Valentine’s Day Sleigh Rides at Ralph Stoppel Farmstead
Date: Saturday, February 14, 2026
Time: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Location: Ralph Stoppel Farmstead, Salem Road SW (behind the History Center of Olmsted County)
Cost: Free-will donation (proceeds benefit Special Olympics)
Bring your sweetheart and family for a magical afternoon of horse-drawn sleigh rides at the historic farmstead! Hosted by the Mechanical History Round Table, this beloved community event features multiple teams of horses, hot chocolate, cookies, and a warming bonfire. It’s the perfect Valentine’s Day activity for couples and families alike. All donations support Special Olympics Minnesota.
Mini Golf & Chairs Exhibition at Rochester Art Center
Dates: Ongoing through May 4, 2026
Hours: Wednesday – Sunday, 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Location: Rochester Art Center, 30 Civic Center Drive SE
Cost: $5 Play Pass (includes one round of mini golf) | General admission fees apply
Play indoor mini golf at the museum! This unique exhibition, curated by Zoe Cinel, features 20 iconic chairs from world-renowned architects alongside a playable mini golf course designed by regional artists. Each hole is inspired by the design elements of famous chairs from the private collection of Ruth and Dave Klawiter. The exhibit connects Rochester’s architectural heritage, including the famous “Big Blue” Rochester Technology Campus designed by Eero Saarinen.
TIV360.com – The Inventor’s Velocity
Digital Marketing | Websites | AI Solutions
Boost your Rochester business with professional web design, local SEO strategies, and cutting-edge AI solutions. We help Minnesota businesses grow their online presence and reach more customers.
Get Started Today →Plan Your February Visit to Rochester
Rochester, Minnesota—home to the world-renowned Mayo Clinic—offers a welcoming community atmosphere and plenty of winter activities. Whether you’re a local resident or visiting the Med City, February provides unique opportunities to experience Minnesota’s winter culture. From the festive Social-ICE celebration to cozy sleigh rides and indoor art experiences, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the season.
Helpful Resources:
Event details are subject to change. Please verify dates, times, and locations with event organizers before attending. Information verified January 2026.
