![The Vulcans are an integral part of St. Paul Winter Carnival lore. ] JIM GEHRZ • james.gehrz@startribune.com / St. Paul, MN / January 23, 2015 /2:00 PM – BACKGROUND INFORMATION: During the King Boreas Grande Day Parade on the first Saturday of Winter Carnival, the newly crowned King Boreas will lead his Royal Family and their legions of friends. Entertainment includes dozens of marching bands, floats and other festive folks as they wind down West Seventh Str](https://arc.stimg.co/startribunemedia/XFYC7DNDPFLNGOFTKTBEDATHPE.jpg?&w=1080)
ST. PAUL WINTER CARNIVAL
Cold weather and snow is plentiful, so it must be time for one of St. Paul's biggest festivals. The "coolest celebration on Earth" turns 130 with several events for all ages. The royal court will be crowned Friday with a banquet and ball. For a little less fancy fun, partake in a jigsaw puzzle contest and carnival kids day. Hundreds of colorful and musical parade units will be led by King Boreas and his royal family during the Grande Day parade. (Today-Feb. 7. Various times and locations, see website for details. wintercarnival.com.)
POND DAKOTA WINTER HISTORY FESTIVAL
Hear what life was like on the Minnesota frontier. Play a game of animal track bingo and take a guided walk in the river valley. Cruise along on a sleigh ride, then warm up by a fire with refreshments. Learn how to use logging tools and tour historic Gideon Pond House. (Noon-4 p.m. Sun. $5. Pond Dakota Mission Park, 401 E. 104th St., Bloomington. ci.bloomington.mn.us) MELISSA WALKER
