In the Midwest, winter means freezing temperatures, shorter days, and piles of snow. For some, the logical response is to curl up under the blankets and hibernate until spring.

But wait: where are all the Minnesotans? Outside, of course First, bundle up: a warm coat and a hat and gloves, and you're all set. Now, squeeze into an ice-fishing shack to try your luck, or skate on a lake and swipe at a puck. Grab a sled and all your friends and tackle a snow-covered hill. Or how about a candlelit ski, with the moon shining brightly overhead?

Think parades are only for summer?...