The Saint Paul Winter Carnival is a longstanding annual event that is hotly (coldly?) anticipated every year, and it first occurred in 1886. It was established to rebut East Coast reporters who stated that Minnesota was "another Siberia, unfit for human habitation". Now, it is a two-week celebration of winter in Minnesota with highlights such as the ice sculptures and the ice carving competitions, a winter run, a giant snow slide, parades, and fireworks. The ice sculptures are the talk of the town, and they are quite a spectacular view.  The events happen all over Downtown St. Paul and in other St. Paul areas. The Landmark Center is available so you can warm up after all this winter outdoor fun.