Top Things To Do in Minneapolis This December
Holiday markets, theater, and festive concerts. It's all here. Between festivals, performances and football games, there won't be a shortage of things to do. Here are our picks for the top things to do in December.
1. How the Grinch Stole Christmas
Now - January 7, 2024
In this holiday favorite filled with music and Seussian rhymes, the Grinch conceives a dastardly plot to destroy the Whos’ beloved holiday—until tiny Cindy Lou extends a hand.
2. Christmas at the Local
Now through December 31, 2023
On a cold winter’s night, a group of locals gather to raise a glass and play a tune, calling forth the spirit of the holidays through story and song. Voices blend, memories are rekindled, and a bit of mystery hangs in the air in the return of Theater Latté Da's rousing new celebration of the season.
3. Gingerbread Wonderland
Now through January 7, 2024
Since 2015, the Norway House has been home to Gingerbread Wonderland, a display of more than 250 gingerbread structures. You will find tons of familiar buildings and landmarks created by our community, including structures by professional bakers and gingerbread enthusiasts of all ages and abilities.
4. Shop at a Holiday Market
Ongoing
Minneapolis' holiday markets offer a festive way to celebrate the season. Local makers, artisans, and craftsmen come together to bring their unique talents and work to create a truly magical experience for shoppers.
5. New Standards Holiday Show
December 1-2
For sixteen years, illustrious Minnesota jazz trio The New Standards and friends have been dazzling audiences with their soulful, funny, and spectacular Holiday Show. Chan Poling, John Munson, and Steve Roehm act as ringleaders for a merry troupe of vocalists, instrumentalists, dancers, and an all-star lineup of surprise special guests featuring a deep roster of music pals. Expect the unexpected at this delightful and beloved holiday tradition.
6. Northeast Winter Market
December 3
Head to the Northeast Winter Market at Quincy Hall the first Saturday of every month through April to shop, eat, and stay connected with friends and vendors! Free and pay lots available for parking.
7. Peter Pan
December 6-31
This high-flying musical has been delighting audiences of all ages for close to 70 years and is now being brought back to life at The Ordway in a new adaptation by celebrated playwright Larissa FastHorse and directed by Emmy Award-winner Lonny Price.
8. Windows Wonderland
December 7&14
Go to Windows at Marquette on the 50th floor of the IDS Center for two pop-up holiday lounge experiences. Sip holiday-themed cocktails, savor small bites, and enjoy festive live music all while taking in stunning views of downtown Minneapolis.
9. Afrobeats Dance Party
December 9
The Cedar & Tamu Events Presents Minneapolis Afrobeats Dance Party! Considered the best afrobeats dance party in the city, featuring the contemporary African sound taking over the world. This season's edition features: local djs, SALIF KEITA of KFAI FM and KING SWANK + performances by beloved host, FANAKA NATION and special guests TBA!
10. Frozen in Concert
December 15-17
Fearless optimist Anna (voice of Kristen Bell) sets off on an epic journey—teaming up with rugged mountain man Kristoff (voice of Jonathan Groff) and his loyal reindeer Sven—to find her sister Elsa (voice of Idina Menzel), whose icy powers have trapped the kingdom of Arendelle in eternal winter. Watch the magic unfold on the big screen as the Minnesota Orchestra performs the score live.
11. Mariah Carey Christmas Drag Brunch
December 17
All I Want for Christmas is You! Join Sasha Cassadine, Shuga Cain (RuPaul's Drag Race), and a cast of talented performers for an ICONIC tribute to Mariah Carey. Christmas outfits and large parties are welcome!
12. Crystal Ball New Years Eve
December 31
Join us for the 21st Annual Crystal Ball New Year’s Eve Party. Four separate rooms of entertainment include a dance room with LED dance floor, dueling pianos, VIP lounge with sing-a-long piano bar and a full arcade room. Hosted at the iconic Windows on Marquette in Downtown Minneapolis on the 50th floor of the IDS Center, each room boasts floor to ceiling windows to view the entire Minneapolis skyline and plenty of bars.
14. Minnesota Timberwolves Games
It's the start of basketball season and the Minnesota Timberwolves have their eyes set on record year with Rudy Gobert, Anthony Edwards and Karl-Anthony Towns leading the way. Come out to Target Center and cheer them on all month.
15. Minnesota Vikings Football
Football season is underway in Minneapolis. Take a look at the season schedule to catch any one of their games in November!
