Fire, light, snow and stars: Parks programs say, 'winter'

Gateway State Trail

5-8 p.m. Friday

The event begins at Wildwood Elementary School in Stillwater. There will be refreshments and bonfires along the trail. (651-231-6968; mndnr.gov/gateway)

Fort Snelling State Park

Noon-1 p.m. Saturday

• Take in a cooking demo showing tools and ingredients to make good camping meals. Meet at visitor center. (612-725-2724; mndnr.gov/fortsnelling)

Lake Bemidji State Park

• Learn about the amount of water in snow and more. All ages welcomed. (1-218-308-2328; mndnr.gov/ lakebemidji)

William O'Brien State Park

9 a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday

• It's race day at the park (9 a.m. adult registration; 11 a.m. child registration) for all ski levels. See more information and registration forms online. (651-539-4986; mndnr.gov/obrien)

French Regional Park

• Explore snowbanks, search for animal tracks and warm up with hot cocoa. Equipment provided. Cost is $6. Call 763-559-6700 to make a reservation. (bit.ly/threesnow)

Fish Lake Regional Park

1-5 p.m. Saturday

• Get a free introduction to a favorite Minnesota pastime. Learn the basics, including ice fishing techniques, safety, equipment and more. Experienced staff, professionals and community partners will be on hand. Practice ice fishing techniques, learn how to bait a hook, and test out equipment. Warm up by a fire. (763-694-7818, bit.ly/threefishtry)

Richardson Nature Center