Every year, people ask me the same question: “How do you survive winter up there?”
But here’s the truth — most Minnesotans don’t just survive winter. We embrace it. Because winter here isn’t just a season — it’s a lifestyle of rest, coziness, and recalibration.
🍎 The Sweet Transition: From Autumn Magic to Winter Chill
Before the snowflakes fly, Minnesota puts on one last glorious show — fall. Crisp mornings, trees bursting with color, apple orchards, pumpkin patches, and sweater weather galore.
Minnesota is a huge apple-growing state, so people spend weekends picking Honeycrisps, drinking cider, and pretending not to notice that cold wind sneaking in.
But as the leaves fade, reality sets in. Around December 1st, we officially enter “winter mode.” Days get shorter, temps drop fast, and the sun likes to call it quits before 5 p.m.
If you’re new to the state — or just new to enjoying winter — the trick is to have a plan. You can’t control the cold, but you can control your mindset.
❄️ Strategy #1: Get Outside Anyway
Even if it feels counterintuitive, getting outside is the best way to stay happy in winter.
Put down what I lovingly call the “glowing cube of doom” (your phone), bundle up, and get outside for a short walk. Fresh air and natural light make a huge difference in your mood.
Pro tip: If it’s icy, don’t skip it — just use ice cleats! They attach to your shoes and give you superhero-level traction. You’ll find them at any hardware store or online.
🧣 Strategy #2: Lean Into Cozy
When it’s too cold to go out, that’s your sign to nest.
Pile on soft blankets, fuzzy socks, and make your space feel like a cocoon.
Do something creative — puzzles, painting, knitting, or reading.
There’s something deeply calming about doing slow, tactile things in winter. And if you’ve ever spent a morning reading in bed while snow falls outside… you know the magic I’m talking about.
When it’s dark early, lean into it. Make a movie night of it. Create your own little home theater. Winter gives you permission to rest.
🍞 Strategy #3: Cook, Bake, and Feed Your Soul
Winter in Minnesota is soup weather.
And if you’ve never used a bread machine, trust me — it’s time. They’re all over Facebook Marketplace for next to nothing, and they’ll fill your house with that glorious fresh-baked smell.
Soup and bread are the ultimate winter comfort combo — they warm your house, your belly, and your spirit.
🧍♀️ Strategy #4: Stay Connected
When you’re not in full hibernation mode, make sure you connect with others.
The Twin Cities have an incredible sense of community. Whether you love hiking, board games, knitting, or singing, there’s a group for you — Meetup.com is a great place to start.
And if you can’t find your people? Create your own group. Minnesotans show up for community.
🌟 The Big Picture
Life doesn’t stop when the weather turns cold — it just changes pace.
Winter gives you the opportunity to rest, recharge, and refocus. It’s a season designed for slowing down, cozying up, and reconnecting — with yourself and your community.
So if you’re new to Minnesota or just need a little winter pep talk, take heart. You’ll make it through, and who knows — you might even love it.
I’m Mary Schumann, Realtor here in the Minneapolis–St. Paul area, and I help people find their place in Minnesota — in every season.