The United Tribes International Powwow, held annually in Bismarck, North Dakota, is one of the largest powwows in the nation. The 2023 event will be held September 8 – 10, one of the last large outdoor events on the northern Great Plains powwow circuit, features competitive dancers and singers as a highlight of the celebration. Credit: North Dakota Tourism

Things To Do In The Twin Cities: Events Minneapolis and St. Paul This Week

The holidays might be wrapping up, but the calendar is heating up with incredible upcoming events in Minneapolis and St. Paul. If you are looking for ways to beat the post-holiday blues, the Twin Cities have you covered. From the adrenaline of international hockey championships to the soulful strumming of folk music in a conservatory, this week offers a perfect mix of excitement and relaxation. Whether you are a sports fanatic or an art lover, our guide to Twin Cities activities will help you plan an unforgettable week. Here’s the top Things To Do In The Twin Cities.

Let’s dive into the best things to do in the metro area from January 4 through January 11, 2026.

Thrilling Sports & Athletics Events in Minneapolis

If you love competition, this is a banner week for events in Minneapolis. The city is buzzing with international talent and local rivalries.

2026 IIHF World Junior Championship

The prestigious World Junior Championship is reaching its climax right here in Minnesota. This is your chance to see the future stars of hockey before they become household names in the NHL.

  • Semifinal 2: Sunday, Jan 4 at 7:30 PM at Grand Casino Arena. The stakes couldn’t be higher as teams battle for a spot in the gold medal game.
  • Bronze Medal Game: Monday, Jan 5 at 3:30 PM at Grand Casino Arena. Catch one last glimpse of international greatness as teams fight for a place on the podium.

NHL and College Action

The ice action doesn’t stop with the juniors. The Minnesota Wild return home for a massive tilt against an East Coast rival.

  • Minnesota Wild vs. New York Islanders: Saturday, Jan 10 at 7:00 PM at Grand Casino Arena.
  • College Basketball: Support local athletics as Northwestern St. Paul takes on the North Central Rams on Saturday, Jan 10 at 3:00 PM at Clark-Danielson Gymnasium.

Live Music & Arts: Top Twin Cities Activities

For those who prefer melodies over slap shots, the local music scene is vibrant this week. These Twin Cities activities offer a great escape from the winter chill.

Intimate Gigs and Album Releases

  • Music Under Glass: Kick off your week surrounded by greenery. Folk/Americana artist Jaspar Lepak performs on Sunday, Jan 4 at 4:30 PM at the Como Park Zoo & Conservatory. It is a warm, tropical escape in the middle of January.
  • The Twins of Franklin: Celebrate a single release show with Katy Tessman and the Turnbuckles on Thursday, Jan 8 at 7:00 PM at the iconic Turf Club.
  • Hot Like Mars: Get your groove on with a live funk performance on Friday, Jan 9 at 8:00 PM, also at the Turf Club.

Cultural Celebrations

  • Urban Expedition – Dakota Homeland: Experience an immersive celebration featuring authentic music, food, dance, and crafts. This educational and fun event takes place Sunday, Jan 11 at 1:00 PM at the Landmark Center.
Musicians playing at a local venue highlighting Twin Cities activities

Theater & Variety Shows You Can’t Miss

The dramatic arts are alive and well this week. Whether you want high-flying acrobatics or a thought-provoking premiere, check out these theater events in Minneapolis and St. Paul.

  • Cirque du Soleil: ‘Twas the Night Before: It is your last chance to catch this holiday spectacle! The production runs through Sunday, Jan 4 at Northrop.
  • The Happiness Gym: Be among the first to see the world premiere of this play on Sunday, Jan 4 at 7:30 PM at Mixed Blood Theatre.
  • Victorian Music Hall Revue: Step back in time with “Ghosts in Greasepaint 4” on Sunday, Jan 4 at 1:00 PM at the Celtic Junction Arts Center.

Creative Workshops & Socials

Looking for Twin Cities activities that let you get hands-on? This week is packed with workshops where you can create something beautiful or compete for glory.

Hands-On Art

  • Glass Pumpkin Patch: Browse a stunning handcrafted glass display on Tuesday, Jan 6 at 11:00 AM at Foci Minnesota Center for Glass Arts.
  • Paint & Sip for Charity: Grab a brush and a pint on Thursday, Jan 8 at 6:30 PM at Dual Citizen Brewing Company. Proceeds support “Every Meal,” making this a fun night for a good cause.
  • Mosaic Stained Glass Class: Learn a new skill on Sunday, Jan 11 at 1:00 PM at Wandering Leaf Brewing Company.

Fun Competitions

  • D&D Jigsaw Puzzle Contest: Gather your party and roll for initiative—or just fit pieces together—at this team competition on Sunday, Jan 11 at 6:00 PM at Pizza Lucé Seward.

Conclusion

From the ice rink to the art studio, the week of January 4–11 is packed with excitement. We hope this guide helps you navigate the best events in Minneapolis and St. Paul. Get out there, support local artists and athletes, and make the most of your winter week!

For more stories on local culture and lifestyle, check out more articles on The Narrative Matters.

If you are looking for tickets to the big games, we suggest checking out the official NHL Ticket Exchange to secure your seats safely.

#TwinCitiesEvents #MinneapolisCulture #IIHFHockey

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Artemis Ingram
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