Flannel Fest fires up Jan. 14

Flannel Fest fires up Jan. 14
By Jake Spitzack | Staff Writer | January 2026

Break out your flannel shirts, wool jackets and chopper mittens because this winter is packing on the snow and it’s time to go outside and enjoy it. South St. Paul Parks and Recreation is hosting its fifth annual Flannel Fest beginning January 14. From flapjacks and ice skating to delicious hotdishes, there’s something the entire family can enjoy. Not all the activities require you to bundle up and brave the cold, though. Here’s what’s slated.

Forager Medallion Hunt, January 14-19. The search begins at noon, Wednesday, Jan. 14 when the first clue is released on the city’s website and Facebook page. Clues will be released at noon daily through January 18, or until the medallion is found.

Flapjacks and Flannels, 9-11:30 a.m., Sunday Jan. 18 at Croatian Hall, 445 2nd Ave. S. Enjoy a meal of flapjacks, eggs and sausage. Come dressed in your flannels to make the event extra festive. $10 adults and $5 for children. Proceeds benefit scholarships for Parks and Recreation youth programs.

Snow Day Showdown, noon-3 p.m., Friday, Jan. 19, at Jefferson Park, 125 21st Ave. N. No school on this day, so grab your sled and race down the massive hill alongside your neighbors. Free snowshoe and cross-country ski rental are also available at the warming house.

Hotdish Showdown, 5-6:30 p.m., Friday, Jan. 23 at Croatian Hall, 445 2nd Ave. S. Cherish the comfort of a warm hotdish on a cold winter’s night. If you have a family favorite that you think tops all others, enter it in the competition. The public is invited to sample the selections and cast their vote. Tasting/judging begins at 5 p.m. and the winners will be announced at 6:30 p.m. To enter the contest or for more information, contact Colin at [email protected].

Boot Hockey Tournament, 10 a.m., Saturday, Jan. 24 at Jefferson Park, 125 21st Ave. N. Leave your blades at home and hit the rink to watch teams square-off in a friendly boot hockey competition for all ages. Free to watch; free to register a team. For more information, contact Colin at [email protected]. The park will also have sledding, ice skating, ice bowling, and hot cocoa served by South St. Paul Police department.

Find more events in our monthly Sample St. Paul Entertainment Guide!