YMCA of the North
Winterfest

WinterFest 2026 at the Minnesota Zoo

February 15–16

Sponsored by YMCA of the North 

Where winter wellbeing meets wild adventure.

Move. Breathe. Explore.

Join us February 15–16 for WinterFest, a unique wellbeing experience sponsored by YMCA of the North in partnership with the Minnesota Zoo. This special weekend brings together families, individuals, and nature lovers for movement, mindfulness, and winter fun—set among the Zoo’s beautiful seasonal landscapes.

Enjoy activities like SnowGa, sound baths, and guided hikes, along with family‑friendly experiences and opportunities to learn more about the Y’s commitment to individual and community wellbeing.

Come explore, connect, and celebrate winter in a whole new way.

YMCA Members Get 4 FREE Zoo Tickets!

All YMCA of the North members receive 4 complimentary tickets per household to visit the MN Zoo during any day in February — including WinterFest weekend!

Check your email or visit your local Y branch for information on how to get your tickets.

Find Your Y launch

What to Expect

SnowGa and Yoga
Experience calming winter movement outside or in a cozy indoor session

Sound Bath Meditation
A calming, immersive meditation experience using soothing sound and vibration.

Guided Hikes Through Zoo Trails
Led walks through the Zoo’s trails, blending movement, nature, and fresh air.

Donation Station for Community Needs
Support local families by donating winter essentials during the event.

S’mores Station
Warm up with classic s’mores made fresh over the fire.

360° Photos of Your Family
Capture a fun, interactive 360-degree photo to remember the day.

Animal Encounters
Opportunities to see and learn about select Zoo animals up close.

Swag + Giveaways
Free event swag and surprise giveaways while supplies last.

Camp Activity
Aim, play and explore a camp favorite with suction cup archery

Crafts & Games
Create wooden charm necklaces and play animal-themed games

Why Attend WinterFest?

Experience wellbeing in a whole new way

Make meaningful memories with family and friends

Enjoy a one-of-a-kind partnership event

Embrace nature in its winter beauty

Fun for all ages

How to claim your tickets

After getting the ticket link from your email or visiting your local Y branch, Follow these simple steps to create your Minnesota Zoo account and claim your complimentary tickets.

Step 1

Visit Minnesota Zoo Website

Go to mnzoo.org and click on "Sign Up" or "Create Account" in the top right corner of the page.

  • Navigate to mnzoo.org
  • Look for "My Account" or "Sign In" button
  • Click "Create New Account"

Pro Tip: Use the same email address associated with your YMCA membership.

Step 2

Fill in Your Information

Complete the registration form with your personal details and create a password.

  • Enter your first and last name
  • Use your YMCA member email address
  • Create a strong password
  • Add your phone number (optional)

Pro Tip: Your email must match your YMCA membership for verification.

Step 3

Verify Your Email

Check your inbox for a verification email from Minnesota Zoo and click the confirmation link.

  • Open your email inbox
  • Find the email from Minnesota Zoo
  • Click the verification link
  • Your account is now active!

Pro Tip: Check your SPAM folder if you don't see the email within 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Check your email or visit your local Y branch for information on how to get your tickets.

Yes! The event is open to the public. The 4 free Zoo tickets are exclusive to YMCA of the North members.

All wellbeing experiences — SnowGa, sound baths, hikes — are included with Zoo admission.

Primarily an outdoor event, but there will be indoor activities as well. Depending on weather, some outdoor activities may be move inside, as needed.

Yes! New members who join in February are also eligible for the free Zoo tickets.