GOLDEN VALLEY, Minn. — During a long, cold Minnesota winter, many of us will seek out a feeling of comfort and coziness. Fittingly, that's what the Scandinavian tradition of "hygge" is all about.
Hygge is defined as a feeling of comfort, contentment and coziness in many Scandinavian countries, but it's grown in recent years to become an entire lifestyle movement.
There are many ways to embrace hygge in the Twin Cities area, according to Natalie Conrad, communications manager for Minneapolis Northwest Tourism. Conrad stopped by KARE 11 News at 4 with some ideas.
Hygge in bakeries
Nothing says cozy like warming up on a cold day with a hot cup of coffee or tea, along with a made-from-scratch pastry. Conrad suggests Sugar & Spice Sweetery, a brand new bakery in Maple Grove that features custom cakes, cupcakes, cake pops and cookies (including gluten-sensitive options).
Hygge in shops
Conrad says Maple Grove's Shoppes at Arbor Lakes is full of unique stores that celebrate the hygge spirit, with cozy items like candles, blankets, etc.
Hygge in the outdoors
The northwest metro is full of places to enjoy all of winter’s outdoor charm. Conrad recommends Elm Creek Winter Recreation Area, which provides seasonal activities including tubing, downhill skiing, snowboarding and cross-country skiing. After some fun in the snow, head to the cozy chalet and snuggle up with hot cocoa in front of the gorgeous fireplace. If you’re looking for a unique ice skating experience, Conrad says Maple Grove’s Central Park is skating circles around traditional ice rinks with Minnesota’s first ice-skating trail, a more peaceful experience than most public ice-skating venues.
For more information about celebrating the cozy hygge lifestyle, visit the Minneapolis Northwest Tourism website.
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