With Christmas just around the corner, what are some great, family-oriented winter activities?

The St Paul Winter Carnival which happens to be the Country's oldest and largest winter festival is just around the corner. It runs for 10 days and features hundreds of activities including the Minnesota State Snow Sculpting Competition at the State Fairgrounds, ice sculptures at Rice Park, an Ice Bar, a Grand Day Parade and a Torchlight Parade followed by the Vulcan Victory Dance at the Crowne Plaza Hotel. This has something for everyone young and old.

Ice skating, find a rink that has lights and then pray for a light snow fall it's breathtaking, enjoyable and exercise all in one.

Ice fishing on Lake Zumbro or Willow Creek Reservoir. Ice skating at Lincolnshire Park, Northern Heights Park or the Rochester Recreation Center. Outdoor hockey at John Withers Sports Complex on Mayowood Road SW, Graham Arena or the Recreation Center. You can do cross country skiing at Essex Park or Eastwood Park. I think you can rent snow shoes at Quarry Hill. My favorite is sledding at Judd Hill or Schmidt Parks.