06/11/2026
Hail the CEO!
Couldn’t be more excited to get to know Patrick and see how he grows Carnival!
Patrick Klinger has been named President & CEO of the Saint Paul Festival & Heritage Foundation, where he will lead the organization responsible for preserving and advancing the rich traditions of the Saint Paul Winter Carnival and other community celebrations that strengthen the cultural fabric of Minnesota’s capital city.
A nationally respected marketing executive, entrepreneur, and community leader, Klinger brings more than three decades of experience in sports, entertainment, sponsorship, and nonprofit leadership. A native of Winona, Klinger has resided in Downtown Saint Paul for 15 years.
Prior to joining the Foundation, he founded Agile Marketing Partners, a strategic consulting firm that advised leading corporations, sports organizations, and nonprofits on sponsorship strategy, brand development, community engagement, and partnership marketing.
Before launching his consulting practice, Klinger spent 14 seasons with the Minnesota Twins, serving as Vice President of Marketing. During his tenure, he helped guide the organization through a period of significant growth, including the opening of Target Field, and led award-winning marketing and fan engagement initiatives that earned regional and national recognition. He is a recipient of seven regional Emmy Awards and a Silver Effie Award.
Throughout his career, Klinger has built a reputation for bringing people, organizations, and communities together around a shared purpose. His work has generated millions of dollars in sponsorship value, strengthened nonprofit organizations, and created memorable experiences for fans, customers, and community members alike.
A passionate advocate for civic engagement and volunteerism, Klinger has served on numerous nonprofit boards and community initiatives throughout Minnesota. He is widely recognized for his ability to build meaningful partnerships, inspire stakeholders, and create lasting impact through innovative leadership.
"Few traditions are as deeply woven into the fabric of Saint Paul as the Winter Carnival,” says Klinger. “As someone who proudly calls downtown Saint Paul home, I've long admired the role the Carnival plays in bringing people together, celebrating our history, and showcasing the spirit of this remarkable city. To be entrusted with leading the Saint Paul Festival & Heritage Foundation is both an honor and a profound responsibility. I recognize the importance of preserving this treasured legacy while ensuring it remains vibrant and relevant for future generations. I am excited to work with our volunteers, sponsors, community leaders, and residents to build upon the Carnival's rich history and help write its next great chapter."
"Patrick Klinger brings a track record of leadership, relationship-building, and community engagement that aligns strongly with the mission and strategic direction of the Saint Paul Festival & Heritage Foundation,” says Dennis Egan, Board Chair for the Saint Paul Festival & Heritage Foundation. “Following a highly competitive search process, Patrick distinguished himself as the ideal leader to guide the organization into its next chapter. We are excited to welcome him as CEO and look forward to the vision, energy, and innovation he will bring as we continue building upon the rich traditions and community impact of the Saint Paul Winter Carnival."
Departing the role she has held since 2021 is Lisa Jacobson. "It has been an incredible honor to lead the Saint Paul Festival & Heritage Foundation over the past five Saint Paul Winter Carnivals,” says Jacobson. “I am deeply grateful for the dedicated volunteers, board members, sponsors, partners, and community supporters who have made this journey so meaningful. I am proud of the strong position the Foundation is in today and excited to see Patrick lead its continued growth and impact."
Plans for the 141st Saint Paul Winter Carnival, January 28 - February 7, 2027, are already underway. We look forward to seeing you soon!
