How to Kick Off the Holiday Season in Minnesota
There’s something special about the start of the holiday season in Minnesota, the first snowflakes, the twinkling lights, and the cozy gatherings that bring friends and families together. If you’re ready to dive into the festive spirit, we’ve rounded up some of the best events happening across the state, with a special spotlight on the Twin Cities.
Rice Park Tree Lighting
Nothing says “holiday season” quite like a towering, sparkling tree. St. Paul’s Rice Park Tree Lighting Ceremony marks the official start of the holidays downtown. Each year, the park transforms into a glowing wonderland filled with music, food trucks, and community cheer. Bundle up, grab a hot cocoa, and watch the lights flicker to life beneath the falling snow, a true Minnesota moment.
📍 Rice Park, St. Paul
🗓 Saturday, November 15, 5:30pm
Union Depot European Christmas Market
Get swept up in old-world charm at the European Christmas Market at Union Depot, one of the Twin Cities’ most beloved holiday traditions. Inspired by German Christkindlmarkts, this open-air market features local and international vendors selling handmade gifts, ornaments, and sweet holiday treats. Between sips of glühwein (mulled wine) and photos with Santa, it’s the perfect way to get your holiday shopping started early.
📍 Union Depot, St. Paul
🗓 Weekends only November 28 through December 21, 12:00pm – 9:00pm
Photo courtesy of Visit Saint Paul
Photo courtesy of Explore Minnesota
A Christmas Carol at the Guthrie Theater
For many Minnesotans, the holidays simply aren’t complete without A Christmas Carol at the Guthrie. The annual production of this timeless Charles Dickens classic brings heartwarming tradition and breathtaking theater to the Twin Cities. From the snow-dusted sets to the emotional performances, it’s a holiday must-see that perfectly captures the spirit of giving and gratitude.
📍 Guthrie Theater, Minneapolis
🗓 November 8 – December 28
🎟️ Purchase Tickets
Winterapolis
New this year, Winterapolis transforms Minneapolis into a celebration of all things bright, bold, and cold-weather fun. From stunning light installations to pop-up markets, concerts, and outdoor adventures, Winterapolis turns the city into a winter playground. Explore illuminated art displays downtown, enjoy family-friendly festivities in neighborhood parks, and take in the sparkle of the season around every corner.
The event runs all winter long, inviting locals and visitors alike to rediscover Minneapolis under a canopy of twinkling lights. Whether you’re skating, shopping, or simply strolling through the glow, Winterapolis captures the very best of Minnesota’s festive spirit.
📍 Various locations across Minneapolis
🗓 Late November through February
Photo courtesy of Meet Minneapolis
Photo courtesy of Explore Minnesota
Bentleyville “Tour of Lights”
If you’re ready for a true spectacle, head north to Duluth for the Bentleyville “Tour of Lights.” This walk-through light display is one of the largest in the Midwest, featuring millions of lights set against the backdrop of Lake Superior. Warm up by fire pits, meet Santa, and enjoy cookies and cocoa as you take in the glow. It’s a road-trip-worthy tradition that’s guaranteed to put anyone in the holiday mood.
📍 Bayfront Festival Park, Duluth
🗓 November 22 – December 27, 2025
💡 Admission is free — just bring a donation for the local food shelf if you can.
Holiday Markets Across Minnesota
Beyond the big city celebrations, Minnesota is full of charming small-town markets that make for a cozy weekend escape. Communities like Stillwater, Wayzata, and Waconia host festive open-air markets with live music, horse-drawn carriage rides, and plenty of hot cider. These local gatherings are a wonderful way to experience Minnesota’s holiday hospitality, one handmade gift at a time.
From glowing tree-lighting ceremonies to classic theater performances and dazzling light tours, Minnesota shines brightly during the holiday season. Whether you stay in the Twin Cities or venture north to Duluth, there’s magic around every corner.
Grab your mittens, cue up your favorite holiday playlist, and get ready to celebrate the season, Minnesota style.