Art Shanty Projects began its first of four weekends welcoming visitors to explore immersive art installations on Lake Harriet in Minneapolis. (AP video: Mark Vancleave)

A polar vortex sun and below-zero wind chills marked the opening day for the Art Shanty Projects on Lake Harriet.

One of our favorite winter events is coming up: the annual Art Shanty Projects taking place on Bde Unma / Lake Harriet. Something we all look forward to are the annual Art Shanty Projects. Each year offers something unique,

Despite frigid conditions in Minneapolis, thousands ventured onto a frozen Lake Harriet on Saturday to immerse themselves in art, connect with others, and brave the cold at the annual Art Shanty Projects.

After being canceled last year due to warm conditions causing uncertain ice levels, the Art Shanty Projects on Lake Harriet are gearing up to open on Saturday.

After last year’s event was cut short by March-like temperatures, organizers have been monitoring the forecast.

The Art Shanty Projects, featuring 20 uniquely designed shanties with performances and interactive experiences, returns Jan. 18–Feb. 9, showcasing a new mentorship program and celebrating ideal ice conditions after last year's weather challenges.

Visitors dance in The Hot Box Disco Inferno, an interactive art installation, on the the opening day of the annual Art Shanty Projects, on Lake Harriet in Minneapolis, Minn., Saturday,

Saturday was cold even for Minneapolis, but that didn’t stop thousands of people from tromping out onto a frozen lake to immerse themselves in art, make new friends — and