📚Family Fun: Top Things to Do with Kids This Week (January 12th-18th)

1. Toddler Tuesday at Sally Manzara Interpretive Nature Center: Animal Winter Fun

Toddlers and preschoolers ages 1–5 (with an adult) can enjoy 90 minutes of nature-themed fun at Sally Manzara Nature Center. Each session includes storytime, a take-home craft, a movement game, and time to explore the nature center. Programs run outdoors in warmer months and indoors during colder weather. Admission is $8 per child, while adults and children under 1 attend free.

2. World Snow Celebration - Stillwater - January 13th-18th

Experience the magic of winter at the World Snow Celebration in Stillwater! International snow-sculpting teams create massive, breathtaking works of art along the St. Croix River. Families can enjoy interactive winter activities, pony rides, the Indoor Market, live music, Snow Slides, pancake breakfasts, kids’ races, and more. The festival runs January 13–18 with events for all ages throughout downtown Stillwater.

3. Raptor Program with the Raptor Center - Stillwater Library - Satureday - Registration required

Children ages 6–12 can meet live ambassador raptors and learn about their unique adaptations during the Raptor Program at Stillwater Library. This educational and interactive program gives kids the chance to see raptors up close and learn what makes these birds special. Adults must accompany children, and registration is required for all participating kids.

4. Ice Castles - MN State Fairgrounds

Ice Castles transforms the Minnesota State Fairgrounds into a glowing winter wonderland with towering ice formations, illuminated archways, winding tunnels, ice slides, frozen fountains, and photo-worthy thrones. Families explore at their own pace during a reserved 30-minute entry window. Tickets range from $13–$26, free parking is available, and timed tickets often sell out, making early planning essential for this magical outdoor experience.

5. Planning Ahead: 2026-27 School Year Information Nights

Families preparing for the 2026–27 school year can explore this week’s preschool and school events. For a full list of open house dates, see our Guide to Applying to Preschool.

School Information Nights Happening This Week:

The Children’s Farm Preschool Registration
January 12–February 6.

SoWashCo Preschool Info Session - District Program Center, Cottage Grove
January 12, 6:00–7:00 PM

Woodbury Lutheran Preschool Open House
January 13, 9:30–11:00 AM & 4:00–5:30 PM 

Stillwater School District Preschool Open House - All Preschool locations
January 14, 5:30–6:30 PM.

Woodbury Lutheran Preschool - Try-Preschool (registration required)
January 15, 4:00–5:00 PM
January 16, 10:00–11:15 AM

Ready, Set, Grow Preschool Open House - King of Kings Church Woodbury
January 15, 4:30–6:00 PM
January 16, 10:00 AM–12:00 PM 

Valley Preschool Open House & Registration - Stillwater
January 17, 10:00–11:00 AM.

Got a preschool open house to share? Submit it on our Events page!