Single-digit temps couldn't keep skiers — and partygoers — away from the Loppet Foundation's après ski party, which capped the City of Lakes Loppet. This year's event drew a sellout crowd of 7,000 registered skiers for a candlelit spin around Lake of the Isles in Minneapolis.
The Big Tent in the temporary Loppet Village on Lake Calhoun offered a break from the frigid outdoor air, homegrown music from Twin Cities band Orange Whip, craft beer from Surly and outdoor-lover raffle packages.
"It's my favorite race of the year," said Nate Ley, a St. John's University skier. "The atmosphere is great."
Elias, Maureen and William Ndegwa and Jason and Joan Hinricks. (The Minnesota Star Tribune)
St. John’s University skiers Ian Fritz and Nate Ley. (The Minnesota Star Tribune)
Brittany Cullen and Tyler Johnson. (The Minnesota Star Tribune)
Monica Osterholm, Norman and Eloise Ratan. (The Minnesota Star Tribune)
Kurt and Laura Taken-Holtze. Kurt competed in the skate race. (The Minnesota Star Tribune)
Heidi Erickson and Laura Bolstad. (The Minnesota Star Tribune)
Shawn, Megan and Mike Binkowski. (The Minnesota Star Tribune)
Stuart Hemphill with his kids Timo and Hayley. (The Minnesota Star Tribune)
Snow sculptures near the finish line of the City of Lakes Loppet, which includes ski and skate races and other activities. (The Minnesota Star Tribune)