Discover the Magic of December in Minnesota: Holiday Markets and Festive Events

December in Minnesota transforms the Twin Cities into a lively hub of holiday cheer. From charming holiday markets to dazzling neighborhood light displays, the season offers countless ways to celebrate. Whether you want to shop for unique gifts, enjoy festive community events, or support local charities, the Twin Cities have something special for everyone. This guide highlights the best holiday markets, light displays, charity drives, and community gatherings that make December truly magical in Minnesota.

Holiday market in Minneapolis with shoppers and twinkling lights

Holiday Markets to Explore

Minnesota’s holiday markets are a treasure trove of handmade crafts, local foods, and unique gifts. These markets bring together artisans and vendors from across the region, offering visitors a chance to find something special while supporting local businesses.

Minneapolis Holiday Market

Held in the heart of downtown Minneapolis, this market features over 50 vendors selling everything from handcrafted jewelry to gourmet treats. The market’s cozy atmosphere includes live music and seasonal food trucks, making it a perfect spot to soak in holiday spirit.

• Location: Loring Park Pavilion

• Dates: Weekends throughout December

• Highlights: Local artists, festive décor, family-friendly activities

  
  

St. Paul Winter Market

Located in the historic Landmark Center, the St. Paul Winter Market focuses on local food producers and artisans. Visitors can sample seasonal foods, pick up fresh flowers, and shop for unique gifts.

• Location: Landmark Center, St. Paul

• Dates: Saturdays in December

• Highlights: Fresh produce, baked goods, handmade crafts

  
  

Northeast Minneapolis Holiday Market

This market showcases the creativity of Northeast Minneapolis artists and makers. It’s a great place to find one-of-a-kind gifts, including ceramics, textiles, and artwork.

• Location: Various galleries and studios in Northeast Minneapolis

• Dates: Select weekends in December

• Highlights: Artisanal gifts, live demonstrations, festive atmosphere

  
  

Neighborhood Light Displays

Minnesota neighborhoods go all out with holiday light displays that attract visitors from across the region. These displays create a magical experience for families and friends looking to enjoy the season’s glow.

Como Park Zoo and Conservatory

The Como Park Zoo hosts an annual winter light display featuring thousands of lights decorating the gardens and zoo grounds. The event includes themed light tunnels, animated displays, and holiday music.

• Location: Como Park, St. Paul

• Dates: Early December through early January

• Admission: Free, donations welcome

  
  

Edina Holiday Lights

The city of Edina is known for its spectacular neighborhood light displays. Several blocks in the area compete for the best decorations, creating a festive driving or walking tour.

• Location: Various neighborhoods in Edina

• Dates: Throughout December

• Highlights: Creative displays, community spirit, family-friendly

  
  

Minnehaha Park Holiday Lights

Minnehaha Park offers a beautiful setting for holiday lights along the river. The park’s walking paths are lined with colorful lights, making it a peaceful spot for an evening stroll.

• Location: Minnehaha Park, Minneapolis

• Dates: December evenings

• Admission: Free

  
  

Charity Drives and Giving Opportunities

The holiday season is also a time to give back. Many local organizations host charity drives and events that invite community participation.

Toys for Tots Drive

Several Twin Cities locations collect new, unwrapped toys for children in need. Drop-off points include local fire stations, community centers, and participating businesses.

• How to participate: Donate toys at designated drop-off sites

• Dates: Early November through mid-December

  
  

Holiday Food Drives

Food shelves across the Twin Cities organize drives to collect non-perishable food items. These drives help families facing food insecurity during the winter months.

• Locations: Neighborhood churches, grocery stores, community centers

• Dates: November through December

  
  

Winter Clothing Drives

Many nonprofits accept donations of warm clothing, including coats, hats, gloves, and scarves. These items are distributed to people experiencing homelessness or financial hardship.

• How to participate: Donate gently used or new winter clothing

• Dates: November through December

  
  

Community Events and Festive Fun

Beyond markets and lights, the Twin Cities offer a variety of community events that bring people together to celebrate the season.

Holiday Concerts and Performances

Local theaters and music venues host holiday-themed concerts, ballets, and plays. The Minnesota Orchestra’s holiday concerts and the Nutcracker ballet are perennial favorites.

• Venues: Orchestra Hall, Ordway Center for the Performing Arts, local theaters

• Dates: Throughout December

  
  

Ice Skating Rinks

Outdoor ice skating is a classic winter activity. Popular rinks include the Depot Rink in Minneapolis and the Rice Park Ice Rink in St. Paul, both offering skate rentals and festive surroundings.

• Locations: Downtown Minneapolis and St. Paul

• Dates: Open through winter months

• Admission: Varies by location

  
  

Holiday Parades and Tree Lightings

Many neighborhoods and cities host parades and tree lighting ceremonies that kick off the holiday season. These events often feature local bands, Santa appearances, and holiday treats.

• Examples: Minneapolis Holiday Parade, St. Paul Winter Carnival tree lighting

• Dates: Early to mid-December