The Local - Winter Edition 2025

Winter Edition 2025

The Local 10 Ways to Enjoy Winter

Holiday Markets & Pop-Ups This Winter

Lizanne Dooner Minnesota Traveler sharing her winter picks this season

Featuring: Twin Cities Toy Drive

Lizanne Dooner

Jessica Tomasko

Hell’s Kitchen

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Winter isn’t just weather, it’s a feeling.

And here in the Twin Cities, we feel it deeply.

Welcome to the Winter Issue

As the temperatures drop and the city settles into a hush of snow-covered streets, we open this edition with one goal - to help you embrace the season with warmth, wonder, and a spark of community.

The Local magazine of Asst is more than a guide; it’s an invitation. An invitation to sip hot chocolate in tucked-away cafés, wander through twinkling winter markets, explore frozen trails that glitter at dawn, and wrap yourself in cozy rituals that make the cold feel comforting.

Grab a warm drink, settle in, and let’s wander through winter together.

Join the Community Get the latest stories, behind-the-scenes content, and collaboration opportunities at: www.asstmsp.community

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Welcome

TABLEof

CONTENTS

pg. 2 Table of Contents pg. 3 Holiday Happenings & Winter Markets in the Twin Cities pg. 4-5 10 Ways to Embrace Winter in the Twin Cities pg. 6-9 Finding Magic in a Minnesota Winter with Lizanne Dooner pg. 10 Winter Wellness Handbook pg. 11-13 Winter Fashion Lookbook with Jessica Tomasko pg. 14-15 10 Sips of Winter: The City’s Best Hot Chocolates pg. 16-17 Snowy Escapes: Twin Cities Parkways & Trails pg. 18-19 8 Holiday Pop-ups in Minneapolis pg. 20-21 Inside Hell’s Kitchen: A Taste of Minneapolis This Winter pg. 22 Cozy Corners Cabins for Winter Retreats Within a Short Drive pg. 23 Toy Drive of the Month: Twin Cities Toy Drive pg. 24-25 Scenes of the Season: Winter Streets & Frozen Views pg. 26-27 About Asst & Asst Media pg. 28-29 Next Issue pg. 30

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Holiday Happenings & Winter Markets in the Twin Cities Holidays on Nicollet Location: IDS Center

Nov 20 to Dec 27

Dayton's Holiday Market Location: The Dayton's Project

A Christmas Carol Location: Guthrie Theater

Nov 20 Feb 28, 2026

Nov 20 to Dec 21

Nov 20 to Dec 28

Nordic Village at Four Seasons Minneapolis Location: Four Seasons Hotel Minneapolis

Minneapolis Christkindl Market

Nov 21 to Dec 21

Location: North Loop Green

Starts on Jan 3, 2025

Ice Castles at the MN State Fair Grounds Location: Minnesota State Fairgrounds

Minneapolis Institute of Ice Location: Minneapolis Institute of Art

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Jan 08, Mar 01, 2026

Jan 17, 2026 10:00 AM –4:00 PM

Art Shanty Projects Location: Lake Harriet/Bdé Umáŋ

U.S. Pond Hockey Championships Location: Lake Nokomis

Jan 23, Jan 25, 2026

Sled Dog Marathon Jan 25 Location: Duluth MN

Lake Harriet Winter Kite Festival Location: Lake Harriet

Jan 28 Feb 01, 2026

Jan 24, 2026 12:00 PM –4:00 PM

The Great Northern Festival Location: Various locations throughout Minneapolis & Saint Paul

City of Lakes Loppet Festival Location: Theodore Wirth

Jan 31, Feb 01, 2026

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Embrace Winterin theTwin Cities

10 Ways to Enjoy them

Winter in the Twin Cities is full of charm, adventure, and cozy moments. From sparkling outdoor lights to hidden cafés, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Here’s a curated list of 10 must-try winter experiences that will make the season unforgettable.

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Winter in the Twin Cities We’re spotlighting winter activities that locals love. A mix of classic coldweather staples and uniquely Twin Cities experiences. Think outdoor fun that embraces the chill, indoor escapes that keep things cozy, and community moments that make winter feel a little warmer.

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01

Ice Skating at Central Park Ice Skate Loop (Maple Grove)

Glide around this scenic outdoor loop this winter! Family-friendly, with skate rentals and a warming house, it’s a perfect spot for seasonal fun.

04 Cozy Café Stop

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Ice Fishing on Mille Lacs or Lake Minnetonka Try the classic Minnesota pastime! Drill a hole, cozy up in a heated shanty, and enjoy some quiet time on the ice.

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Indoor Ice Climbing at Vertical Endeavors For adventurous locals, try ice climbing indoors in controlled conditions, a unique winter workout and thrill.

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Stop by The Nature Nook Café for a cozy winter experience. Warm up with hot chocolate and locally baked pastries in a snug setting.

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Cross-Country Skiing at Theodore Wirth Park Glide along scenic trails with snow crunching beneath your skis. Rentals are available, so it’s easy for beginners and seasoned skiers alike.

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Winter Hiking at Minnehaha Falls Take a crisp winter hike and admire the frozen waterfalls.

Don’t forget your camera, icy formations make stunning photographs.

Holiday Pop-Ups Step into festive Twin Cities pop-ups like Rosedale’s Rose & Loon Holiday Market, and Sociable Cider Werks Holiday Pop-Up. From local makers to seasonal treats and cozy décor, these limited-time events are perfect for soaking in Minnesota’s winter magic and snagging unique gifts.

Sledding at Crosby Farm Park

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Enjoy a classic winter pastime with hills perfect for sledding. Great for families or groups of friends looking for fun in the snow.

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Ice Skating at Lake of the Isles

Whether you’re practicing your spins or just trying to stay upright, Lake of the Isles is the perfect open-air rink for skaters of all levels. Big skies, wide ice, and plenty of room to move make it a fun winter must-do.

Winter Farmers Market at Minneapolis Browse local produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts at the heated winter market. It’s a great way to support local vendors while staying warm.

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Finding Magic in a Minnesota Winter “Winter isn’t just a season, it’s a feeling in Minnesota.”

Minnesota-born and raised, Lizanne (@lizannelately) has always had a heart for small businesses, hidden gems, and the stories tucked into every corner of the state. What began as a love for local adventures has grown into a community that follows along as she explores Minnesota’s nature, culture, and “I’ve always believed Minnesota is one small-town charm. of the most underrated places to

surprises me , from quiet lakes to the energy of the Cities and the character of small towns.”

explore.”

LIZANNE’S WINTER PICKS

This winter, she’s sharing her top picks for markets, events, and winter experiences you won’t want to miss.

Lizanne says the best way to enjoy winter in Minnesota is to fully embrace it, ice skate, explore the Ice Castles and Art Shanty Project, and try a sauna and cold plunge. For firsttimers, she recommends layering up, visiting Minnehaha Falls, warming up in local coffee shops, and ending the trip with a Juicy Lucy from The Nook.

THE GREAT NORTHERN FESTIVAL seasonal shopping & live entertainment

ART SHANTY PROJECT

unique ice art & local vendors

ANTIQUE SNOWMOBILE RENDEZVOUS (Pequot Lakes, January) – fun for families & collectors

POP-UP ICE BARS & HOLIDAY MARKETS

around Minneapolis & St. Paul

NEW ULM

COZY TOWNS & SPOTS

Winter, especially, holds a special magic for her. With its slow pace, pink-and-purple sunsets, and cozy embrace of the outdoors, it’s the season when Minnesota feels most alive.

“This state constantly

FESTIVALS/MARKETS

Lizanne (@lizannelately)

Schell’s Brewery + local eats

PEQUOT LAKES: MN TRADERS CO

(coffee, brunch, cocktails)

NATURE LINK RESORT A peaceful lakeside escape surrounded by nature.

SAUNA CAMP Cold plunge + sauna

ICE CASTLES Perfect photo ops

From Cozy Adventures to Winter Wellness Take the inspiration from Lizanne’s adventures and turn it inward: let winter spark not only excitement but also rejuvenation, balance, and joy.

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Glow & Ambiance

Brighten long winter nights with soft lighting and cozy warmth. A bookinspired candle from Frostbeard Studio adds the perfect glow and imaginative scent to any hygge-filled corner.

Warmth & Comfort

The Winter Wellness Handbook

Transform your space into a winter retreat with plush textures and layered coziness.

Classic wool throws from Faribault Mill bring timeless warmth to every reading nook and sofa moment.

Savor the Moment

Slow down and enjoy the simple joys of winter. A cup of locally roasted Wildflyer Coffee pairs perfectly with snow-day stillness, good books, and quiet mornings.

Mindful Journaling

Capture the season’s calm through reflection and gratitude. Let the thoughtful, intentional lifestyle through a cup of coffee from Socca inspire a journaling ritual that adds warmth to even the coldest days.

Seasonal Scents

Fill your home with winter aromas like pine and spice. Signature blends from Thymes Fragrances, including beloved Frasier Fir, create an inviting, unmistakably seasonal atmosphere.

Finding comfort in the cold.

Sip, breathe, unwind.

Embrace the quiet, the snow, and the simple joys. Let this Twin Cities winter be a season of warmth, mindfulness, and cozy moments.

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Frost & Fashion Minnesota winters don’t have to mean sacrificing style for warmth.

Jessica Tomasko, a Minneapolis-based creator, shows us how to embrace the season with elevated coziness. From structured outerwear to monochromatic layers, her winter wardrobe proves that comfort and chic can go hand in hand. Join her as she shares tips, must-haves, and effortless outfit inspirations perfect for cold-weather living.

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Layered & Elevated Winter with Jessica Tomasko Meet Jessica

Cold-Weather Must-Haves

Based in Minneapolis, Jessica Tomasko is a digital creator known for blending fashion, fitness, and food into an effortless, everyday lifestyle.

Across Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube (@jessicatomasko), she shares looks and routines that feel approachable yet elevated, perfectly suited for life in Minnesota.

Winter Style, Defined Jessica’s winter style is rooted in elevated coziness. Think clean lines, neutral tones, and pieces that balance warmth with intention. Outfit sets and lounge sets are staples, proving that comfort doesn’t have to compromise style, especially when function is essential in Minnesota winters.

Her winter wardrobe essentials include: oversized jackets tights structured boots and a heated outerwear coat, her ultimate winter gamechanger. These pieces anchor her looks while keeping practicality front and center.

Trends on Repeat This season, Jessica is loving soft monochromatic sets, oversized layers, structured outerwear, and faux fur jackets, timeless textures that elevate even the simplest winter outfit.

Lookbook Notes Jessica leans into neutral and monochromatic palettes, focusing on smart layering to stay warm without overcomplicating the look. The formula is simple: cozy, clean, and intentionally styled.

“It’s simple and cheesy, but just do what makes you happy more in life :)”

Follow Along @jessicatomasko | Instagram · TikTok · YouTube

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Why we love it: Known for importing its cocoa straight from Switzerland.

Meaning this isn’t your syrup‑based cup but rich, real‑cocoa hot chocolate that’s Bread & Chocolate almost like drinking a liquid candy bar.

Dancing Bear Chocolate Why we love it: Their sipping chocolate is thick, velvety, more like a European‑style hot chocolate. Locals frequently call it the best in the Cities.

Rustica Bakery & Cafe Why we love it: Smooth, creamy hot chocolate that’s just‑sweet‑enough.

Perfect if you don’t want something too sugary.

Why we love it: Known for authentic French pastries. Their hot chocolate is described as a rich, dark cup, often served Patisserie 46 with a hint of spice.

Sips of Winter

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Why we love it: Offers a Mexican‑style hot chocolate-creamy, often with spice and more complex cacao flavor, a nice alternative to the traditional ‘sweet cocoa’.

Vivir

Hot Fox & Pantry

16 Photos shown are for visual reference only and may not depict the actual locations, products, or individuals featured.*

Why we love it: It’s family‑ and kid‑friendly, with options for food, baked goods, and even events or concerts, makes it versatile for different kinds of visits.

Ginkgo Coffeehouse Uncommon Grounds Coffee House Why we love it: Housed in a cozy old‑house‑style coffee shop with dim lighting and a homey atmosphere. Nice for chill coffee dates or winding down evenings.

The City’s Best

Chocolates Why we love it: It has a vibe that transitions from café‑by‑day to a more relaxed, evening‑friendly spot with good food and drinks.

Nice for a hot chocolate + treat, especially later in the day.

Why we love it: Their hot chocolate sometimes comes with fun latte‑style touches (art, whipped cream, etc.), making it a friendly, relaxed treat.

Gray Fox Coffee

Why we love it: The vibe is cozy, artsy, and a bit Caffetto Coffee House alternative.

Perfect for locals who want a relaxed hangout or study spot.

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Snowy Escapes: Twin Cities Parkways & Trails

Theodore Wirth Park Offers ~14 miles of groomed ski trails. Great for cross‑country skiing whether you’re a beginner or more experienced.

Also popular for snowshoeing, fat‑tire biking, and snow tubing when snow’s good.

Before You Go

Warm layers, hand warmers Traction cleats (if not skiing) Small thermos of hot chocolate or tea Ski pass (required for groomed XC trails)

Loring Park Classic downtown green‑space with lake, walking paths.

Nice for a crisp winter stroll without going too far from city amenities.

Before You Go Cozy scarf + gloves Camera/phone for snow views Comfortable winter boots Small snack for a relaxed walk

Powderhorn Park

In winter, the lake often freezes and the park supports ice skating; there’s also a warming Before You Go house for winter comfort.

Ice skates (or check local skate rental availability) Thermal socks Warming pack for hands/feet Light blanket if you plan to relax by the lake

Photos shown are for visual reference only and may not depict the actual locations, products, or individuals featured.*

Quick Winter Escapes DEC 15– WESTERN DAY TRIPS BUFFALO, MINNESOTA Perfect for a Winter stroll around the Buffalo lake

General Trail Essentials Layers base layer + fleece + winter coat

Footwear waterproof boots or snow boots Safety traction cleats, small flashlight, phone charged Comfort thermos, hand warmers, tissues

DEC 16– NORTHWEST ADVENTURE LOOP ALEXANDRIA Visit the “Big Ole” Viking statue and walk along Lake Carlos State Park trails

DETROIT LAKES Ice fishing on Detroit Lake

DEC 17 – CENTRAL DAY TRIP ELBOW LAKE Perfect for a Winter stroll around the Buffalo lake

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Holiday Pop-Ups in Minnea

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Hell-a-Dazzle at Hell’s Kitchen

A holiday pop-up decked out with ornaments, wreaths, and seasonal flair, offering festive food and drinks through the holidays.

Frosty’s Bar at Brit’s Pub

A winter wonderland bar popup inside Brit’s with themed cocktails, décor, and a whimsical holiday experience running through early January.

Photos shown are for visual reference only and may not depict the actual locations, products, or individuals featured.*

3Gaelic Gl at The Local Mpls

Holiday transformation with jewel-tone lights, upside-down trees, Irishinspired cocktails, special events, and seasonal ambience through midJanuary.

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Jingle Giles

at Earl Giles Restaurant and Distillery

Festively decked-out space with over 100,000 lights, themed cocktails, food, and gift shopping (also a mini version appearing at Dayton’s Project).

5No Coal for You! at Black Sheep Pizza

A seasonal holiday cocktail experience with festive decor (named playfully for the holidays).

polis

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Nico’s Navidad Holiday House at Nico’s Taco

Festive holiday makeover of the Nico’s bars with decorations and seasonal cocktails.

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Northern Starlight Express at Renaissance Minneapolis Hotel

A festive immersive train-inspired cocktail experience (availability varies year to year)

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Foraged at Tavola at Elliot Park Hotel

A winter pop-up with seasonal menu and cocktails inspired by foraged ingredients.

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Inside Hell’s Kitchen: A Taste of Minneapolis This Winter

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Seasonal Promo’s & Menu’s

“We want our winter menu to feel like you’re up at the cabin eating a hearty, homecooked meal,” Billy Schoenburg

Hell’s Kitchen President

Step inside Hell’s Kitchen this winter: warm lights, hearty food, and a lively downtown vibe make it the perfect escape from Minnesota’s cold.

What is Hell’s Kitchen?

Hell’s Kitchen is one of What Winter the rare downtown Dining Means? institutions that has For Hell’s Kitchen, stayed proudly winter dining isn’t just independent and about embracing the employee-owned. The season with bold vibe is warm but a Minnesotan flavors, but little rebellious, the also being somewhere for portions are generous, all members of every and the flavors are community to have a unique in a way only a place where they can Minneapolis-born spot come in, warm up and can pull off. feel welcome.

WINTER MENU HIGHLIGHTS

Lemon Ricotta Hotcakes

Peanut Butter Bacon Double Smashed Burger

Prime Rib French Dip

This winter, Hell’s Kitchen leans fully into festive fun with promotions and holiday events, including: Hell-a-Dazzle Their over-the-top holiday experience, with the entire restaurant decked out in Christmas décor, festive food and drink specials, a themed Bloody Mary/Mimosa Bar, photo ops, and live music.

Pajama Brunch Wear your pajamas to weekend brunch in December and get a free caramel pecan roll, plus access to their famous 35-ft Bloody Mary bar and live music.

Gift Card Sale promo runs till December 24, 2025 Buy a Hell’s Kitchen Gift Card by Christmas Eve and get a bonus certificate: $50 Gift Card → $10 certificate $100 Gift Card → $25 certificate

Wolves Game Day Deals Drink specials for guests wearing Wolves gear on any game day.

Step Inside Hell’s Kitchen This Winter : Warm Up & Dig In Visit Hell’s Kitchen website or follow their Instagram @HellsKitchenMN

Huevos Rancheros

House-Made Peanut Butter

Cozy Corners

Cabins for Winter Retreats Within a Short Drive

North Shore / Grand Marais Where Lake Superior meets winter magic.

Perched above frozen Lake Superior, these cabins offer dramatic winter views, snowy trails, and charming small-town vibes. Perfect for a scenic, firelit retreat.

Boundary Waters Wilderness A true winter escape for the soul.

Remote and peaceful, these cabins let you unplug completely, with snowshoeing from your doorstep, starlit skies, and cozy woodburning warmth.

Brainerd Lakes & Gull Lake Region Classic cabin country, close enough for a weekend escape.

A classic weekend escape, these cabins combine lake views, snowy woods, and fireplaces. Ideal for ice fishing, snowmobiling, or simply relaxing.

Lake Vermilion / Cook Area

Secluded beauty on one of Minnesota’s most treasured lakes.

Secluded lakeside cabins offer serene winter landscapes, quiet mornings, and cozy evenings by the fire, making it a tranquil getaway for locals.

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Photos shown are for visual reference only and may not depict the actual locations, products, or individuals featured.*

From Winter Retreats to Winter Giving

This month, we’re spotlighting Twin Cities Toy Drive, helping families across the Twin Cities create a brighter holiday. From donating new, unwrapped gifts to volunteering at sorting events, there are many ways to get involved and uplift kids in our neighborhoods. Every small act helps spread the warmth we all seek during winter.

Toy Drive of the Month: Give Warmth, Share Joy

Bring warmth this season, donate to children in need.

Every winter, the Twin Cities Toy Drive brings together neighbors, artists, and local businesses with one shared goal: to spark joy in families across Minneapolis and St. Paul.

Through culturally thoughtful gifts and a deep focus on community care, the Toy Drive turns simple holiday giving into a movement that uplifts thousands.

Each toy represents more than a gift; it’s a reminder to every child that the community sees them, cares for them, and wants them to feel the magic of the season.

Getting involved is easy

Residents can drop off new, unwrapped toys at participating collection points throughout Minneapolis and St. Paul, or join volunteer events where teams sort, bundle, and prepare gifts for delivery.

Seasonal Highlight Twin Cities Toy drive donated 10,000 toys to families throughout the Twin Cities!

“Turn the simple act of giving into a powerful citywide movement.”

-Adrian Wilson Founder

MAKE A DIFFERENCE THIS SEASON Donate a toy. Spread joy.

For ToyDrop locations, volunteer schedules, or ways to support the mission, visit TwinCitiesToyDrive.com

Scenes of the Season:

Winter Streets & Frozen Views Celebrate the magic of Minnesota winter with a look at the most picturesque spots across Minneapolis and Saint Paul.

Use this guide as inspiration for your weekend walks, photo ops, or simple moments of winter calm.

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Where to Go for an Iconic Winter Streets?

Summit Avenue, St. Paul Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis

Grand Avenue, St. Paul

Quick tip for locals!

Bundle up, but bring touchscreen gloves to snap photos without freezing your hands.

Where to Go for Frozen Lakes & River Views?

Mississippi Riverfront (Stone Arch Bridge)

Lake Harriet & Chain of Lakes

Quick tip for locals!

Como Lake, St. Paul

Paths can get slick! Microspikes or winter boots with good tread make a huge difference.

Hidden ColdWeather Gems

Quick tip for locals!

Bring a thermos with something warm.

These parks are beautiful but breezy.

Boom Island Park 27

Photos shown are for visual reference only and may not depict the actual locations, products, or individuals featured.*

Asst is a modern personal concierge and community lifestyle brand dedicated to making everyday living effortless, elevated, and deeply connected. We simplify daily life through personalized services, curated experiences, and insider access, saving our audience time and enhancing how they live, explore, and engage with their community.

Asst believe in three things: Community Fostering connection and belonging Service Delivering thoughtful and dependable support Human Experiences Creating memorable, meaningful moments

Mission

To elevate daily life for modern residents by providing seamless access to lifestyle services, local experiences, and community-driven storytelling.

Vision

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To become the foremost lifestyle resource and concierge brand that empowers people to live better.

Connecting them to authentic experiences, trusted local recommendations, and stories that matter.

Asst Media presents, The Local is Asst’s signature digital magazine & lifestyle publication that has been telling stories rooted in the Twin Cities. Spotlighting local voices, spaces, and moments that shape everyday life.

Through community-led features and thoughtful local discovery, it continues to document the culture as it unfolds.

the

Local As this issue closes the year, we turn our focus to winter stories of pause, community, and everyday local life that ground us before we turn the page.

Check out other The Local editions here!

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THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING‌

The Local

As we wrap up this issue, we want to extend a heartfelt thank you for being part of ‌The Local‌community. Your support, shares, messages, and love for Twin Cities stories keep this magazine growing season after season.‌ With winter fading and the first signs of spring on the horizon, we’re already working on a fresh new issue inspired by brighter days, blooming ideas, and everything the Twin Cities has to look forward to.‌ COMING SOON: THE SPRING ISSUE‌

Thank you for reading, supporting, and celebrating the local with us.‌ ‌Here’s to a new season, and to seeing you again in our ‌Spring Issue.‌

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