1. Celebrate with the biggest holiday event of the season: Holidazzle

Don’t miss a packed season of festivities, events and collective urban experiences taking place in downtown Minneapolis this holiday season. This year’s Holidazzle will again bring community together to enjoy activities, entertainment and highlight local small businesses while taking in the holiday season together. Enjoy Holidazzle festivities every weekend from November 25 to December 18. Check out the official schedule of events and make a whole day out of it with our Where to Go Before and After Holidazzle guide.

2. Start stocking up on gifts

We know you still have a long list of people to buy gifts for. Make your shopping experience much more enjoyable with markets that feature festive food, live music and holiday activities. Shop local this holiday season and come away with unique gifts for everyone. We’ve put together a full list of holiday markets and pop-up shop in Minneapolis for you to visit all season long.

3. Spend a night surrounded by lights

It gets darker a lot sooner this time of year so take advantage and see some of the most colorful and sparkling lights in the city.

At the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum stroll through lit up paths of decorated trees, flowers, nature and winter fun. Stop by s’mores village to warm up near a fire and buy s’mores kits to roast marshmallows.

Over in St. Paul, stroll through CHS Field during the The GLOW Holiday Festival. See over a million holiday lights and art installations.

A drive-thru experience can be found at the Valleyfair amusement park. Lights will be synchronized to holiday music while you drive by giant candy canes, snowmen and arched pathways. Check out the Christmas in Color Animated Light Show.

For more ideas see a complete list of all Minneapolis light shows.

4. Be entertained by a Holiday Show

Theater and musical performances are perfect way to get into the holiday spirit. Whether you are looking for classics like A Christmas Carol or a twist on some favorites you’ll want to see a show in Minneapolis during the holidays. Check out a list of the must-see shows of the season.

5. Have a Nordic Christmas

The American Swedish Institute pulls out all the stops to celebrate the holiday season. Take part in holiday activities and show off your creative skills with Nordic craft workshops making handmade cards, ornaments, or traditional Swedish foods.

Be sure to also stop by the Julmarknad - the Scandinavian Christmas Market taking place inside the institute and at the ASI courtyard during the weekend. Shop for handmade goods from more than 60 regional artists.

6. Wander into a Gingerbread Wonderland

During the holiday season the Norway House turns into a gingerbread oasis. Here you’ll see gingerbread versions of familiar buildings and landmarks from around the Twin Cities and beyond. Local bakers and community members donate their creations to help build this tasty spectacle. You can even bring in your own gingerbread handiwork to put on display, no experience required.

7. Share a Pint While Touring Holiday Lights

Experience the Twin Cities' Brews 'N Bulb tour will show you some holiday cheer with a festive night on the town! Savor pints of craft beer at three terrific breweries, and experience award-winning holiday lights in the Twin Cities all while being chauffeured in a warm coach bus. Tour duration is 3 hours.