1. The coldest New Year's Eve in Minnesota history occurred in 1968, with temperatures reaching a bone-chilling -42 degrees Fahrenheit in Tower.

2. On December 31, 1862, the largest mass execution in United States history took place in Mankato, Minnesota. Thirty-eight Dakota Native Americans were hanged after being convicted of murder and other crimes committed during the Dakota War of 1862.

3. In 1975, the iconic "Wagon Wheel" neon sign atop the Schmidt Brewery in St. Paul was dismantled and relocated to the State Fairgrounds after the brewery closed its operations.

4. On December 31, 1979, the official opening of the Mall of America was announced. The largest mall in the United States, located in Bloomington, Minnesota, attracts over 40 million visitors each year.

5. In 2013, Minneapolis native and musician Prince released a new single, "Da Bourgeoisie," on December 31 as a surprise New Year's Eve gift to fans. The song was made available for free online and gained widespread attention.