More Minnesotans getting back to pre-pandemic normalcy, attending large events

Winter events in the Twin Cities are still bringing in patrons, despite COVID-19 concerns.

At the Ice Fishing and Winter Sports show in St. Paul, officials said the lines are much longer this year compared to years past. Even with the pandemic, some patrons said they’re not worried.

The nation’s largest fishing show is back after COVID canceled plans last year.

Thousands chose from nearly 200 exhibits at the event. At the RiverCentre, pandemic precautions are still in place.

“There’s a lot of people here so I hope nothing spreads,” Sunni Gisison, Ice Fishing and Winter Sports show patron, said.

“I’m at the point where you can do what you want to do if you feel safe without a mask, that’s fine,” another sports show patron said.

Face coverings are requested at the event, but not required.

“I’m vaccinated so I feel protected myself. If someone feels unsafe and wants to add a mask that’s great,” a third patron told KSTP.

At some other attractions in St. Paul, COVID-19 protocols are not optional.

“During COVID, we had to install a lot of new regulations like the face mask. We have mask protocols inside and outside,” Matt Reinartz, Como Park Zoo & Conservatory spokesperson said.

At the conservatory, patrons have to make reservations to see the holiday flower show due to capacity concerns.

The event was virtual last year, but this year people can see and smell the flowers in person.

Some sightseers said the COVID protocols make it easier to capture every moment.

“You wear the masks. They limit the number of people so it’s not like jam-packed. Years past, it was like bumper to bumper people and now it’s just nice flowing and very nice,” a holiday flower show attendee said.