As December begins, so does the joyful festivities throughout the Twin Cities area. From exclusive Holiday musicals to weekend markets, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
Festive Events & Markets
Union Depot Hub for the Holidays
Where: Downtown Saint Paul When: Now - December 15th Cost: Free
Festive activities continue at the Union Depot all throughout December. Early on in the month you can experience an European Christmas Market, from December 7 - 10, filled with charming aspects of Germany, Austria, and various other countries. As the month continues, enjoy delicious treats at the annual holiday bake sale and various musical performances. For the entire schedule, you can view it here.
Where: Downtown Minneapolis When: Now - December 23rd Cost: Free
Nothing brings the holiday spirit to Minneapolis like the annual Holidazzle celebration! This festival will be open to family fun up until December 23rd; Thursday evenings from 5:00 - 9:00 PM, Fridays from 5:00 - 10:00 PM, Saturdays 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM, and Sundays 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM. You can expect to see local businesses products, delicious food and beverages for purchase, live holiday music, and many entertainment aspects. Make sure you check out the schedule to view which nights will be movie nights, contain fireworks, or have a special guest for the children to meet - Santa! Did we mention that there will also be an ice skating rink and beautiful holiday art installments? With so many activities, there's something for everyone to enjoy!
Where: Sunnyside Gardens, Minneapolis When: Sundays in December Cost: FREE
Minneapolis Craft Market and Linden Hills Farmers Market bring to you an array of craftspeople, artisan food producers, and a delicious assortment of food. All of these options will be on display for guests to shop over 60 different vendors. Each Sunday from 9:00 am - 2:00 PM this one-stop market will be at your availability.
Family Baking:Holiday Traditions
Where: Mill City Museum, Minneapolis When: Saturdays & Sundays in December Cost: $23 - 27
Come make a delicious holiday treat while discovering the traditions that occur throughout Minneapolis. This is an exclusive parent-child event for the season. Ticket prices vary and may be purchased either online or by calling the Mill City Museum.
Exclusive Pop-Up Events
Where: Mid Town Global Market, Minneapolis When: December 7th - 8th Cost: FREE
Is someone on your list looking for urban & indie-style art? Stop by the annual art & craft show, No Coast Craft-o-Rama. Various crafters and artists will be displaying their work for purchase. This is a great opportunity to purchase some unique gifts this season!
Where: Tattersall Distilling, Minneapolis When: December 8th Cost: FREE
Looking for unique Secret Santa gifts? Take some time to experience a Holiday market along with enjoyable refreshments. Vendors from Askov Finlayson to Minny Paul to Vals Brew Treats, will be apart of the pop-up event. For drinks, expect collaborations with Sharab Shrubs and Hobby Farmer Canning Company. If you are looking for even more presents, be sure to check out the Mercury Mosaics market located just on the otherside of the Thorp Building!
Where: Aamodt's Apple Farm, Stillwater When: December 9th Cost: FREE
Christmas is growing closer and closer! Come get into the spirit while visiting Santa and shopping local vendors during the Xmas' at the Barn event in Stillwater. Amongst the entertainment will be delicious food such as homemade chili & harvest bread, apple brats & hot dogs, baked goods, and hard cider. The event will take place from 1:30 - 6:00 pm, a perfect way to end a Holiday weekend!
Stillwater Holiday Craft & Gift Show
Where: Oak Glen Golf Course and Banquet Facility, Stillwater When: December 15th - 16th Cost: FREE
Known for quality and exquisite Holiday gifts, stop by the 4th annual Holiday Craft & Gift Show located in Stillwater. Two floors of various crafters and local vendors, a cash bar, and live music will make up the event. This event will be open Saturday and Sunday from 10 am to 4 pm. Did we mention that there will be free coffee and treats as well?
Magical Shows & Special Attractions
Where: Sheraton Minneapolis West When: December 2nd - 23rd Cost: $25 - $30
Come join the glorious light fun while taking a Trolley through the Twin Cities! This two hour tour contains sparkling lights and lots of holiday spirit through delicious treats and festive music. Book your tickets online, as they spaces are filling quickly!
Where: Ordway Center for the Performing Arts, St. Paul When: December 5th - 30th Cost: $53+
A Holiday and comedy classic, Elf, is coming to Minnesota in musical form! Shows will begin December 5th and continue until the end of December. Tickets may be purchased at the box office, by phone, or online here. This musical is family friendly, as it relates relatively closely to the film. Don't miss out on a show that The New York Times describes as "Splashy, peppy, sugar-sprinkled holiday entertainment.”
Where: Orpheum Theatre, Minneapolis When: December 18th - 30th Cost: $39+
A Broadway favorite returns to Minneapolis just in time for the Holidays. Les Miserables is a musical set within 19th-century France. Already seen by 70 million individuals, 44 countries, and in 22 languages; this musical is continuously breaking the box office records and a must see!
Minnesota is a magical time in December. Whether you're most excited for the beginning of the snow season, or if you are looking to taste some delicious treats - make the most of the season by attending one of these events!
*Imagery provided by Unsplash