7 Festive Minneapolis Christmas Events To Attend

Minneapolis, the largest city in Minnesota, is a great place to spend the holiday season. From festive light displays to joyful holiday markets, Minneapolis offers a wide range of Christmas events that are fun for the whole family. Whether you're a local or just visiting, here are 7 festive Minneapolis Christmas events to attend:

The holiday season is a special time of year, filled with magic, wonder, and joy. It's a time to come together with loved ones, make new memories, and experience the festive atmosphere that only Minneapolis can provide. With its rich cultural scene, historic landmarks, and vibrant neighborhoods, Minneapolis is the perfect place to get into the holiday spirit.

From traditional Christmas markets to unique and quirky events, Minneapolis has something for everyone. So why not bundle up, grab some hot cocoa, and explore all that the city has to offer during the most wonderful time of the year?

1. Holidazzle Parade

The Holidazzle Parade is a Minneapolis holiday tradition that dates back to 1992. This festive event takes place on Saturdays and Sundays from late November to late December and features a parade of illuminated floats, marching bands, and of course, Santa Claus. The parade route runs through downtown Minneapolis, starting at the Nicollet Mall and ending at the 5th Street and Hennepin Avenue intersection.

The Holidazzle Parade is a fun and free event that's perfect for families, couples, and friends. Be sure to arrive early to secure a good spot along the parade route, and don't forget to bundle up and bring some hot cocoa to keep you warm.

When:

Saturdays and Sundays, late November to late December

Where:

Nicollet Mall, downtown Minneapolis

Time:

6:30 pm - 8:00 pm

2. Minneapolis Christkindlmarkt

If you're looking for a unique and authentic German-style Christmas market experience, look no further than the Minneapolis Christkindlmarkt. Located in the heart of downtown Minneapolis, this festive market features a variety of vendors selling handmade crafts, traditional German food, and of course, glühwein.

The Minneapolis Christkindlmarkt takes place from late November to late December and is a fun and festive event for all ages. Be sure to check out the market's special events and activities, including visits from Santa Claus, live music performances, and traditional German dancing.

When:

Late November to late December

Where:

US Bank Plaza, downtown Minneapolis

Time:

Monday - Thursday: 11:00 am - 9:00 pm Friday - Saturday: 11:00 am - 10:00 pm Sunday: 12:00 pm - 8:00 pm

3. Ice Skating at the Rice Park Ice Rink

The Rice Park Ice Rink is a popular winter destination in downtown St. Paul, just a short drive from Minneapolis. This outdoor ice rink is open from late November to late February and offers a fun and festive ice skating experience for all ages.

The Rice Park Ice Rink is surrounded by beautiful park landscaping and features a variety of amenities, including a warming house, skate rentals, and a concession stand. Be sure to check out the rink's special events and activities, including holiday-themed skating sessions and visits from Santa Claus.

When:

Late November to late February

Where:

Rice Park, downtown St. Paul

Time:

Monday - Thursday: 11:00 am - 9:00 pm Friday - Saturday: 11:00 am - 10:00 pm Sunday: 12:00 pm - 8:00 pm

4. Guthrie Theater's A Christmas Carol

The Guthrie Theater's production of A Christmas Carol is a Minneapolis holiday tradition that has been delighting audiences for over 40 years. This classic adaptation of Charles Dickens' beloved novella features a talented cast of actors, stunning sets and costumes, and of course, the iconic story of Ebenezer Scrooge.

The Guthrie Theater's production of A Christmas Carol takes place from late November to late December and is a fun and festive event for all ages. Be sure to check out the theater's special events and activities, including pre-show talks and post-show discussions.

When:

Late November to late December

Where:

Guthrie Theater, Minneapolis

Time:

Varying performance times, check the Guthrie Theater website for details

5. American Swedish Institute's Julfest

The American Swedish Institute's Julfest is a fun and festive holiday event that takes place in late November. This annual celebration features a variety of traditional Swedish activities, including folk dancing, crafts, and of course, Swedish food.

The American Swedish Institute's Julfest is a great event for families and couples, and is a fun and unique way to experience the holiday season. Be sure to check out the institute's special events and activities, including visits from Tomte (the Swedish version of Santa Claus) and a festive holiday market.

When:

Late November

Where:

American Swedish Institute, Minneapolis

Time:

10:00 am - 5:00 pm

6. Mill City Museum's Holiday Lights and Shopping

The Mill City Museum's Holiday Lights and Shopping event is a fun and festive holiday celebration that takes place in late December. This annual event features a variety of activities, including a holiday market, live music performances, and of course, stunning holiday lights.

The Mill City Museum's Holiday Lights and Shopping event is a great way to get into the holiday spirit, and is a fun and unique way to experience the magic of the season. Be sure to check out the museum's special events and activities, including visits from Santa Claus and a festive holiday craft fair.

When:

Late December

Where:

Mill City Museum, Minneapolis

Time:

5:00 pm - 8:00 pm

7. Minneapolis Zoo's Holiday Lights and ZooLights

The Minneapolis Zoo's Holiday Lights and ZooLights event is a fun and festive holiday celebration that takes place from late November to late December. This annual event features a variety of activities, including a stunning holiday light display, live music performances, and of course, visits from Santa Claus.

The Minneapolis Zoo's Holiday Lights and ZooLights event is a great way to get into the holiday spirit, and is a fun and unique way to experience the magic of the season. Be sure to check out the zoo's special events and activities, including a festive holiday craft fair and a holiday market.

When:

Late November to late December

Where:

Minneapolis Zoo, Apple Valley

Time:

5:00 pm - 9:00 pm

We hope this article has helped you discover some of the best festive Minneapolis Christmas events to attend. Whether you're a local or just visiting, Minneapolis has something for everyone during the holiday season. So why not bundle up, grab some hot cocoa, and experience all that the city has to offer?