The Twin Cities don’t just embrace the holidays—they burst into them with full, unstoppable cheer. Every corner glows, every street sings, and suddenly winter doesn’t feel so cold after all.
You can wander from glittering markets to snowy riverfronts, feeling like you’ve stepped into a Midwestern snow globe.
There are sleigh bells echoing through parks, warm treats drifting from cozy stalls, and crowds gathering under twinkling lights as if the season itself is calling them out to play.
Whether you’re craving classic traditions or bold bursts of winter fun, the Twin Cities deliver December joy in every direction.
Here are 12 festive ways to celebrate a season that shines brighter in Minnesota than almost anywhere else.
Holidazzle in Loring Park
Holidazzle transforms Loring Park into a glowing village where lights, music, and winter cheer surround you.
Wander past artisan stalls for gifts, then warm up with hot cocoa or mulled wine by the fire pits. A small ferris wheel and photo ops make it easy to feel festive.
Check the schedule for fireworks, movie nights, and local performances that highlight Minneapolis talent. Dress warm and plan to linger because the vibe gets cozier after dark. Parking can fill quickly, so consider light rail or rideshare for a stress free visit.
Bentleyville Tour of Lights in Duluth day trip
This day trip rewards you with one of the Midwest’s largest light shows, a short drive from the Twin Cities. Bentleyville dazzles with a towering tree, animated displays, and tunnels that glow in every color. Kids can visit Santa while you sip cocoa beside the lake.
Arrive early to avoid lines and bring hand warmers because the wind can bite. Pair the visit with a Canal Park stroll or dinner before heading home. If driving conditions look dicey, plan a weekend overnight for a relaxed, safer trip.
St. Paul Union Depot European Christmas Market
Under Union Depot’s grand facade, a European style market fills the air with cinnamon and evergreen. Browse wooden chalets for ornaments, candles, and artisan gifts while carolers set the soundtrack. Warm up with gluhwein or hot cider as you people watch.
Expect crowds on weekends, but weekday evenings feel pleasantly calm. Bring cash for smaller vendors and sample pierogi or bratwurst for an authentic taste. The historic station makes a perfect backdrop for photos, especially as the sunset lights the sky pink.
Wells Fargo WinterSkate at Rice Park
Rice Park turns magical when WinterSkate opens, and the rink sits beneath trees wrapped in lights. Glide past the Landmark Center and Saint Paul Hotel while festive music plays. Bring your own skates or rent on site for an easy outing.
Even non skaters love the atmosphere and photo worthy backdrops. Warm up afterward with cocoa at a nearby cafe or a celebratory dinner close by. Check the weather and ice conditions online before heading over, and remember mittens for the chill.
GLOW Holiday Festival at CHS Field
GLOW turns CHS Field into an immersive maze of light tunnels, oversized ornaments, and interactive displays. You can pace yourself at a leisurely stroll, snapping photos at every sparkling corner. Kids love the scavenger hunts and occasional costumed characters.
Timed tickets help manage crowds, so book ahead for prime evenings. Dress boots for icy patches and bring a portable charger for all those photos. The Lowertown location makes it easy to add a dinner reservation nearby to round out the night.
American Swedish Institute’s Jul season
The American Swedish Institute celebrates Jul with mansion rooms dressed in Nordic traditions. Expect straw goats, delicate ornaments, and candlelit vignettes that feel timeless. Stop for fika at Fika Cafe with cardamom buns and rich coffee.
Exhibits rotate, so check what is featured during your visit. Families appreciate hands on crafts that introduce Swedish customs without feeling stuffy. The gift shop is a sleeper hit for beautifully designed home goods and holiday decor.
Holocaust and Human Rights Center menorah lighting at the Capitol
The public menorah lighting at the Minnesota State Capitol offers a meaningful, inclusive celebration of Hanukkah. Community leaders share messages of hope before the candles are lit. The ceremony is brief, beautiful, and family friendly.
Expect security and arrive early for a good view. Dress warmly, as wind can sweep the hill and make temperatures feel colder. After the event, head downtown for latkes or hot chocolate to keep the evening festive and bright.
Holiday lights tour through Minneapolis neighborhoods
Sometimes the best lights are right in the neighborhoods. Map a route through known hotspots like the Minnehaha corridor, Nokomis, and Southwest streets. Bring cocoa in travel mugs and queue a playlist for a cozy car tour.
Be respectful of residents by keeping music low and not blocking driveways. For walking tours, traction cleats help on icy sidewalks. Check community Facebook groups for addresses featuring synced shows and charity donations to support local causes while you admire the glow.
Como Park Zoo and Conservatory Holiday Flower Show
The Holiday Flower Show inside Como Conservatory feels like a tropical exhale from the cold. Poinsettias, cyclamen, and fragrant greens fill the Sunken Garden with color. Step into the glasshouse and instantly shed a few winter layers.
It is free with a suggested donation, making it an easy add to your plans. Photography is welcome, but avoid blocking paths during busy hours. Pair the visit with a quick stop to see the polar bears at the zoo if weather allows.
Minneapolis Institute of Art winter nights and gift shop
Mia offers a serene counterpoint to the bustle, perfect for a contemplative winter evening. Wander galleries, then browse the gift shop for smart design items and artful books. Seasonal programming sometimes includes live music or talks.
Admission is free, and the quiet atmosphere makes it an easy date. Check late night hours, which can vary during the holidays. If you need dinner nearby, Eat Street and Whittier deliver great options within a short walk.
Hyland Hills or Theodore Wirth sledding and tubing
Embrace winter fun with sledding or tubing at Hyland Hills or Theodore Wirth. Laughter carries across the hill as tubes whip down groomed lanes. Dress in layers and waterproof pants to stay warm and dry.
Helmets are smart for speedier runs, and glow sticks make twilight trips extra fun. Weekdays are less crowded, so plan accordingly. Warm up in the chalet with hot chocolate and use hand warmers to extend your time outside.
New Year’s Eve on Nicollet Mall
Ring in the new year on Nicollet Mall with a downtown energy boost. Restaurants and bars offer specials, and outdoor patios twinkle with heaters and lights. You can plan a progressive night with small plates and a midnight toast.
Consider reservations and a rideshare to make the night smooth. Dress shoes with traction because icy patches can surprise you. If you prefer a quieter vibe, swing by earlier for a celebratory dinner and a quick stroll before the crowds build.