Wander Minnesota: Omnifest 2016
So much for our warm spell -- the cold is about to return. Avoid cabin fever and frostbite at the same time by taking in the annual Omnifest at St. Paul's Science Museum of Minnesota. The festival runs through March 3. Plan ahead and pre-order tickets, especially for weekends because this is a popular event.
As always, the science museum has a diverse and highly-regarded collection of films to enjoy while wallowing in the expansive Omnitheater. This year's choices will take you from tiny rainforest creatures to the wide expanses of the Great Lakes.
"Tropical Rainforest" is a science museum original film, shot in Costa Rica, Australia, Malaysia and French Guinea. The film dives deeply into the rich biological worlds contained in these rainforests, bringing them to life for viewers far away, in a cold climate.
"Jerusalem" gives viewers a bird's-eye view -- and on a large screen -- of one of the most historic cities in the world. Of special interest is the examination of the Church of the Beatitudes, the site where the Bible says Christ gave him Sermon on the Mount.
C'mon. Who isn't awed by the sight of these majestic creatures? "Humpback Whales" takes viewers through the life stages of humpback whales, including how they raise their young and following them on their annual migrations.
"Forces of Nature" has footage of an F-3 tornado touching down near Aberdeen, South Dakota. Given the scope of the Omnitheater, this should be an intense experience.
"Mysteries of the Great Lakes" explores the dangers facing the environments of the Great Lakes, as well as the people who are working to stem them. You can expect some jaw-dropping footage, as well as familiar sights to anyone who has gone up the North Shore.
What else is happening in our state? Be sure to check out WCCO 4 News at 10 on Sunday nights, where you can learn more in the weekly segment, Finding Minnesota.