Winter in Minnesota often conjures images of icy roads, snowdrifts, and freezing temperatures -- but for the Art Shanty Projects, it represents a canvas for bold imagination and communal joy. Since 2004, this immersive art experience has transformed the frozen landscape of Bdé Umáŋ (Lake Harriet) in South Minneapolis into a vibrant village of creativity.
This year, from January 18 to February 9, 2025, the Art Shanty Projects returns with an unforgettable lineup of shanties, performances, and interactive experiences that celebrate resilience, artistry, and togetherness.
The Art Shanty Projects are not just about enduring winter -- they are about thriving in it. These colorful, DIY structures on ice represent the ingenuity and dedication of local artists who embrace Minnesota's frigid winters to create something magical. Each weekend from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., visitors can explore the village, enjoy live performances, and interact with exhibits that challenge the boundaries of traditional art. The shanties and performances bring life to the ice, sparking curiosity and joy in visitors of all ages.
What to Expect at the 2025 Art Shanty Projects
This year's lineup features a blend of returning favorites and exciting new additions. From the whimsical Banned Book Reading Room to the electrifying Hot Box: Disco Inferno II, there's something for everyone. Highlights include the community-focused Free Store Shanty, where visitors can pick up gently used winter gear, and the engaging NatureGrafter, which explores the intersection of art and the environment. For music lovers, Klezmer on Ice and Ice Pirate Radio will provide the soundtrack to this icy utopia.
The performances are just as dynamic as the shanties themselves. Visitors can enjoy Taiko drumming, community sing-alongs, and even a puppet battle royale courtesy of Queer Puppet Clash Presents: Battle for the Egg. The Performance Stage, crafted with care and creativity, will feature a rotating cast of artists throughout the festival.
Accessibility and Inclusion: Art for Everyone
Art Shanty Projects is committed to accessibility, ensuring that everyone, regardless of ability, can enjoy this winter wonderland. From ADA-compliant ramps and pathways to sign language interpreters and sensory-friendly maps, the festival goes above and beyond to create a welcoming atmosphere for all. Kicksleds equipped to accommodate wheelchairs provide another layer of accessibility, allowing visitors to navigate the ice with ease.
This commitment to inclusion extends to the artists themselves, with shanties and performances designed to be as accessible as possible. Training and outreach ensure that the community feels seen and included, while ongoing evaluations help refine these efforts for future festivals.
A Celebration Rooted in Resilience
The Art Shanty Projects embody the spirit of Minnesota winters: bold, creative, and unyielding. For many in our community, it is a chance to gather, celebrate, and push back against the isolating nature of cold weather. It's not just about surviving the season -- it's about finding joy, inspiration, and connection in the face of it.
Whether you're a long-time fan or a curious newcomer, this year's festival promises to deliver an experience that will warm your heart -- even in subzero temperatures. So bundle up, bring your sense of adventure, and join the Art Shanty Projects in celebrating the beauty of winter, the power of art, and the strength of community.