ICE agents’ presence in Edina spurs angry protests
ICE agents were deployed across the Twin Cities for Operation Metro Surge, an immigration crackdown that started Dec. 1. An estimated 400 arrests have been made during the operation, according to the latest information from the Department of Homeland Security. The operation comes after Governor Tim Walz and President Trump clashed over Somali immigrant communities in Minnesota. On the night of Dec. 11, around 150 people gathered for a noise demonstration outside Edina’s Homewood Suites by Hilton, where federal immigration agents were thought to be staying.
Edina Police Department’s holiday donations
On Friday, the Edina Police Department helped deliver holiday toy donations for the Toys for Tots motorcade located in Golden Valley. This “toy run” is a large holiday charity run every year across the United States, usually involving deliveries by motorcycle to the homes of disadvantaged children; in 2024, Toys for Tots received over 30 million donations, with that number projected to only rise in 2025. The Edina Police Department ended their donation period on Tuesday.
Edina’s basketball showcase canceled due to concerns of violence
The Breaking Sports Tip-Off Classic, a high-profile basketball showcase scheduled for Dec. 13 at the Edina Community Center, was canceled on Dec. 11. EPS’s cited reason for the cancellation was crowd fighting at a previous, similar event hosted at Hopkins High School, which caused EPS officials to determine they “could not ensure the level of safety necessary for this event.” Hopkins previously cancelled another basketball tournament due to crowd fighting in August.
Edina Outdoor Skating Rinks set to open
Centennial Lakes Park is ready to open their outdoor rinks on the week of Dec. 15. The rink features 10 acres of ice to skate on, with regular weather monitoring to ensure the ice is stable. Skating is free of charge, and rentals are available during their daily rental hours. There are concessions and restrooms located in the Hughes Pavilion warming house at the main entrance. Neighborhood rinks are also opening officially soon, including Arden Park, Cornelia School Park, and Creek Valley Park.
This piece was originally published in Zephyrus’ print edition on Dec. 18, 2025
