Fun at Can Can Wonderland in St. Paul; photo by Mike Krivit
Event highlights this week include:
Dec. 31, Red Wing
New Year's Eve with Monroe Crossing
Dec. 31, Minneapolis
NYE: Secret Mission
Dec. 31, Little Falls
Candlelight Hike
Jan. 1, Park Rapids
First Day Hike: A Backcountry Exploration
Dec. 31, Duluth
DSSO Pops: Purple Rain
Southern Minnesota
Nov. 20 - Dec. 29, Austin
Hormel Historic Home Holiday Walk-In Tours
Delight in the beautiful holiday decorations found throughout the Hormel Historic Home. 507-433-4243
Nov. 24 - Dec. 31, Mankato
Kiwanis Holiday Lights
This year's attractions include a display of over 1.5 million LED lights, animated light displays, skating rink and warming house, horse-drawn wagon rides, Santa Claus, live reindeer, ice sculptures and more at Sibley Park. 507-385-9129
Nov. 30 - Dec. 30 (Thursday through Sunday evenings), Marshall
Light Up the Nights
Experience the magic of the holidays on a tour through a winter wonderland of lights. Also enjoy horse-drawn carriage rides, hay rides, carolers, live entertainment, holiday campfires, and special holiday concessions. Southwest Minnesota State University. 507-537-0080
Dec. 31, Welch
Grand Funk Railroad
Celebrate New Year's Eve with Grand Funk Railroad! This "American Band" is ready to rock you into the New Year with their signature hard driving sound, soulful vocals and forceful pop melodies. Treasure Island Resort & Casino. 800-222-7077
Dec. 31, Houston
Owl Prowl to Call in Wild Owls
Owls live all around us but are very good at evading detection. Learn how to identify our local owls by size, shape, silhouette and sound with the Owl Center's human and owl staff. Following the indoor portion of the program participants will carpool to known owl territories in and around Houston to call for Eastern Screech-Owls, Barred Owls, and Great Horned Owls. International Owl Center. 507-896-6957
Dec. 31, Red Wing
New Year's Eve with Monroe Crossing
Named in honor of Bill Monroe, "The Father of Bluegrass Music," Monroe Crossing dazzles audiences with an electrifying blend of classic bluegrass, bluegrass gospel, and heartfelt originals. Their superb musicianship and on-stage rapport have entertained audiences across the United States, Canada, and Europe. Sheldon Theatre. 651-388-8700
Jan. 5-6, Rochester
The Wedding Extravaganza
The Wedding Extravaganza features more than 100 wedding product and services vendors, as well as fashion shows, fabulous prizes, live entertainment, and extraordinary exhibitor packages. Mayo Civic Center. 507-876-2187
Jan. 6, Lanesboro
Dinner on the Bluff-You Beliz It!
Although balancing a tourist-dependent economy with environmental preservation can be challenging, the Central American country of Belize has been able to strike a balance by promoting ecotourism within its borders. Attend this presentation and discussion of how the country has progressed in the last 20 years to become a powerful resource for experiential learning for college students and other life-long learners. Dinner on the Bluff evenings include a 3-course meal and an hour-long presentation. These dinners are by reservation-only. Guests are encouraged to bring their own adult beverage of choice. Themed meals will be served buffet style. Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center. 507-467-2437
Jan. 13, Mankato
Mankato Craft Beer Expo
The 6th Annual Mankato Craft Beer Expo will showcase the offerings of craft breweries from Minnesota, as well as across the United States. Sample beers from over 40 craft breweries in a commemorative sampling glass, and enjoy educational seminars throughout the day. Verizon Wireless Center. 507-389-3000
Minneapolis-St. Paul Area
Nov. 7 - Jan. 7, Minneapolis
Dr. Seuss's How the Grinch Stole Christmas
Whoville is experiencing a seemingly unstoppable crime wave. Who, oh who will save Christmas? The Children's Theatre Company's all-time audience favorite musical brings alive the songs, the story and the Seuss in mega-doses of spirited storytelling and fanciful rhymes. This beloved holiday tradition will grow anyone's heart three sizes! Children's Theatre Company. 612-874-0400
Nov. 22 - Dec. 30, Waconia
Spirit of Winter Solar Powered Holiday Light Show
The Spirit of Winter is a fabulous light show with synchronized music and animated displays. All ages are welcome to attend and stroll through our grounds and 12 attractions. The Winery at Sovereign Estate. 952-446-9957
Nov. 22 - Dec. 31, St. Paul
Christmas Traditions Guided House Tour
Discover holiday celebrations of the past through the stories of those who lived and worked on Summit Avenue, including excerpts from Hill family letters and journals and rare historic photographs of the neighborhood. James J. Hill House. 651-297-2555
Dec. 15-30, Minneapolis
Myron Johnson's "Nutcracker (not so) Suite"
Lauded by the Star Tribune as a Christmas miracle for the Twin Cities, Myron Johnson's inventive and irreverent take on The Nutcracker returns for its third year on The Cowles Center stage. Join Barbie, Ken, and a host of colorful characters for this spicy twist on The Land of Sweets. For a slightly racier version of the show, attend one of the Naughty Nutcracker performances on Dec. 22, 28, or 30. The Cowles Center for Dance & the Performing Arts. 612-206-3600
Dec. 16-30, St. Paul
Christmas Saturdays for Families
Make a Victorian cornucopia in the parlor, then go room-to-room collecting special items to put inside of it as you explore three floors of the mansion during the holidays. Staff will be stationed throughout the house for questions. Visitors can drop in for this program; however, the art activity ends at 4 pm. We suggest allowing 1.5 hours for this visit. This program is designed for families with younger children. James J. Hill House. 651-297-2555
Dec. 22-29, St. Paul
A New Year Celebration
Celebrate the New Year's holiday with food, music, dancing and games at this Victorian-inspired special event. Explore the Ramsey House with family and friends and participate in hands-on activities on all three floors. Try a variety of 19th-century parlor games and dances and listen (and sing along) to popular songs of the era played on the 1872 Steinway grand piano. Be sure to enjoy holiday cakes, puddings and other treats, freshly baked from the wood-burning stove. Alexander Ramsey House. 651-296-8760
Dec. 23 - Jan. 21, St. Paul
The 1968 Exhibit
The social forces that swirled through the turbulent 1960s crested in 1968. It was a turning point for a generation coming of age and a nation at war. This popular exhibit returns to Minnesota after touring the nation. Minnesota History Center. 651-259-3000
Dec. 26-31, Chanhassen
An Andy and Bing Christmas
Returning by popular demand, enjoy a wondrous night of timeless Andy Williams and Bing Crosby Christmas musical classics performed by an extraordinary 16-member band fronted by Mick Sterling. Chanhassen Dinner Theatre. 952-934-1525
Dec. 26-31, Minneapolis
The Phantom of the Opera
Cameron Mackintosh's spectacular new production of Andrew Lloyd Webber's The Phantom of the Opera makes its triumphant return to Minneapolis as part of a brand new North American Tour. Hailed by critics as bigger and better than ever before, this production boasts many exciting special effects including the show's legendary chandelier, new scenic and lighting designs, new staging and choreography. Historic Orpheum Theatre. 612-339-7007, 612-373-5600
Dec. 30, St. Paul
Trans-Siberian Orchestra
Over the past 20-plus years, Trans-Siberian Orchestra has become a critically-acclaimed, multi-platinum, musical powerhouse, and its annual winter tours a beloved, multi-generational holiday tradition. Xcel Energy Center. 651-726-8240
Dec. 31, Minneapolis
NYE: Secret Mission
NYE Secret Mission is going above and beyond to give you the ultimate experience with a Bond-theme NYE! From top notch DJs, live music, casino tables, giveaways, performers and more! Entertainment in every room, around every corner. Get your tickets while they last! Lumber Exchange Building. 612-460-1209
Dec. 31, Eagan
Family New Year's Eve Party
Bring your whole family to ring in the New Year at the annual New Year's Eve Party with candlelight hiking, snowshoeing and ice skating, sledding on a lit hill, bonfires, live animals, storytelling, magic, a ball drop and more! Lebanon Hills Regional Park. 952-891-7000, 651-554-6530
Dec. 31, Minneapolis
Countdown Mpls - NYE 2018 Minneapolis Party
Party with the best Top 40, EDM & Hip Hop DJs in the Twin Cities on multiple levels with multiple dance floors, including an exclusive VIP floor. Minneapolis Club Event Center. 612-466-0483
Dec. 31, St. Paul
NYE with Brass Messengers & NYE Vaudeville Spectacular
Celebrating NYE with three sets by Brass Messengers and a NYE Vaudeville Spectacular! Enjoy champagne towers, a balloon drop, wearable art, artist-designed mini golf, individual party favors, face painting, butler service noshes, artist-made custom environments, photo ops and more! Can Can Wonderland. 651-925-2261
Jan. 5-6, St. Paul
Cinch World's Toughest Rodeo
Cinch World's Toughest Rodeo rides back into Saint Paul for two thrilling shows. The popular "Party on the Dirt," featuring Dylan Scott, will take place following Saturday night's rodeo action. Champion cowboys from around the U. S. will compete in bareback riding, saddle bronc riding or bull riding, while the women will be vying for the championship title in barrel racing. Xcel Energy Center. 651-726-8240
Jan. 5-6, Shakopee
Pirtek Snocross National
The Pirtek Snocross National presented by Jimmy John's brings the top extreme snowmobile riders from across the country at Canterbury Park for two days of high-flying stunts and exhilarating racing. This event is part of AMSOIL Championship Snocross, the No. 1 snowmobile race series in the world! Canterbury Park. 952-445-6870
Jan. 6 - Feb. 28 (tentative dates), Stillwater
Ice Castles
Ice Castles is a winter wonderland where fairy tales are brought to life with twinkling lights, magnificent archways and towers, ice-carved tunnels, fountains and slides ready to be explored. At specific times, meet with the Enchanted Frozen Sisters and attend Fire Performances. Dates are tentative -- please call ahead for specific days and times. Lowell Park in downtown Stillwater. 888-407-4054
Jan. 7, St. Paul
Minnesota Boychoir Concert
This annual winter concert at the Landmark Center features over 100 extremely talented singers ages 7-18. It's so popular, there are two shows! Seats fill quickly, so guests should arrive early. Historic Landmark Center. 651-292-3225, 651-292-3063
Upcoming Twin Cities' concerts and performances:
The Phantom of the Opera at the Historic Orpheum Theatre in Minneapolis, Dec. 13-31
Boyz II Men at Treasure Island Resort & Casino in Welch, Dec. 29
Buddy Guy at Mystic Lake Casino Hotel in Prior Lake, Dec. 30
Hallmark Channel Presents Trans-Siberian Orchestra at the Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul, Dec. 30
Joe - Holiday R & B Jam at the Historic State Theatre, Dec. 30
Grand Funk Railroad at Treasure Island Resort & Casino in Welch, Dec. 31
Louie Anderson: New Year's Eve 2017 at the Ames Center in Burnsville, Dec. 31
Lana Del Rey at the Target Center in Minneapolis, Jan. 5, 2018
World's Toughest Rodeo at the Xcel Energy Center, Jan. 5, 2018
Paw Patrol Live -- The Great Adventure at the Historic State Theatre in Minneapolis, Jan. 10, 2018
Criss Angel Raw - The Mindfreak Unplugged at Treasure Island Resort & Casino, Jan. 12, 2018
G. Love & Special Sauce at Mystic Lake Casino Hotel, Jan. 12, 2018
PAW Patrol Live - The Great Pirate Adventure at the Historic State Theatre, Jan. 12-14, 2018
Minnesota Roller Girls at Roy Wilkins Auditorium at St. Paul RiverCentre, Jan. 13, 2018
The Killers at the Xcel Energy Center, Jan. 17, 2018
Scotty McCreery at Mystic Lake Casino Hotel, Jan. 25, 2018
1964 - The Tribute at the Ames Center, Jan. 20, 2018
Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood at the Historic State Theatre, Jan. 27, 2018
Defending the Caveman at Ames Center in Burnsville, Jan. 27, 2018
Tickets available through Eventful or Ticketmaster
Central Minnesota
Dec. 1-31, Brainerd
Sertoma Winter Wonderland
Breathtaking lights, reflecting off of the sparkling white snow and strung into captivating displays will delight visitors as they drive through the Sertoma Winter Wonderland. This spectacular holiday tradition includes a driving tour of more than 80 colorfully animated lit displays. Northland Arboretum. 218-829-8770
Dec. 31, Little Falls
Candlelight Hike
Spend New Year's Eve exploring trails by candlelight. This annual hike will include luminaries lining the trails connecting the Charles A. Lindbergh Historic Site and the Charles A. Weyerhaeuser Memorial Museum. Guests can drop in at any time during the event and hike whatever distance is comfortable. Snowshoes are welcome if conditions allow. Both museums will be open with free admission for guests to warm up and grab a refreshment. 320-616-5421
Dec. 31, Hutchinson
New Year's Eve Bash
Be a part of the experience with this annual New Year's Eve Bash. Dance to live music and ring in the New Year while enjoying fine wines as well as a selection of beer, mixed drinks and other beverages. Crow River Winery. 320-587-2922
Jan. 5-7, Willmar
New Year Bonspiel
Join the fun and participate in the 12th Annual New Year Bonspiel with 8-End Games, Guaranteed 3 Games, and Bracket Pay-Outs. Blue Line Arena. 320-403-3398
Jan. 6, Breezy Point
Ice Fest
The 23rd Annual Ice Fest features 12 teams in a Pond Hockey Tournament, as well as bonfires on the beach, free horse drawn hay rides, snow golf on Breezy Bay, ice slide, dog sled rides, great food and drink specials, and live entertainment at Dockside Lounge. Pelican Lake in front of Breezy Point Resort. 218-562-7811
Jan. 13, Willmar
Gaelynn Lea Concert
Enjoy the sounds of classically trained violinist and songwriter Gaelynn Lea at The Barn Theatre in downtown Willmar! 320-235-9500
Northwest Minnesota
Nov. 15 - Jan. 28, Bemidji
Fur Trade in Minnesota
Hundreds of years ago, Minnesota played a key role in the fur trade, which stretched across five continents. This traveling exhibit, rich with activities and objects, shows how plentiful fur bearers brought together native people, explorers and international trade. Visitors to the exhibit can lift a 45-pound Voyageur’s pack, learn how the fur trade shaped Ojibwe art and discover how beaver pelts could be transformed into sleek, stately hats that were all the rage among wealthy Europeans. Beltrami County Historical Society. 218-444-3376
Dec. 30, Bemidji
History Mystery
The detectives need your help. The Depot Agent was found murdered at the Great Northern Depot shortly after its grand opening in 1912. Six local historical figures are the prime suspects. Become an Assistant Detective for this live whodunit that combines the classic game of Clue with local history. Enjoy refreshments, interview suspects, and explore the Depot to uncover clues. Solve The History Mystery and win prizes! Historical costumes encouraged. Beltrami County History Center. 218-444-3376
Jan. 1, Park Rapids
First Day Hike: A Backcountry Exploration
Start off your New Year with an invigorating snowshoe hike while exploring the area around the Mississippi Headwaters. The hike will go along the Schoolcraft trail and out to Schoolcraft Island (conditions permitting). The first section of the hike will be easy. Dress for being outdoors, bring along your snowshoes, water and sunglasses. A limited number of snowshoes are available on a first-come-first-served basis. Itasca State Park. 218-699-7251
Jan. 6, Walker
Yoga + Craft Beer + 2018 Intention Setting
Join certified yoga instructors Joella Miller of JEM Yoga & Massage, and local instructor Bryana Cook of Northern Namaste Yoga. This fun and inviting event includes two yoga classes, and a meditation and journaling exercise. Portage Brewery. 218-547-1313
Jan. 6-7, Park Rapids
Smoky Hills Art - Jewelry Making Get Away
This retreat is designed for those who love beads and stones. You will be using natural rocks, minerals and gemstones for wire wrapping and bead stringing your own beautiful jewelry.
Smoky Hills Art Studio. 218-732-7625
Jan. 11-12, Detroit Lakes
Detroit Lakes Ice Harvest
The 2018 Ice Harvest begins at 11 a.m. on Jan. 11 when the first block of ice will be cut during the Cutting Ceremony. Harvesting will continue through Jan. 12. These blocks of ice will be used to construct a 24-foot tall Ice Palace. The Ice Palace will be Feb. 8, when there will be an Opening Party and Grand Lighting of the Ice Palace. Learn more about ice harvesting and the importance of this industry to Detroit Lakes. 218-847-9202
Northeast Minnesota
Nov. 18 - Jan. 7, Duluth
A Glensheen Christmas
A Glensheen Christmas Classic Tour is your chance to explore the mansion decked out for the holidays with more than 25 Christmas trees and hundreds of feet of garland. Start your experience in the Carriage House before making your way to the mansion where the tallest of Glensheen’s Christmas trees proudly towers beyond the first floor. Challenge yourself to find all the hidden elves while Christmas music envelops the living room. In the kitchen, sample a Christmas cookie recreated from Clara’s very own recipe. Finish your tour by exploring the grounds of Glensheen. Glensheen Mansion. 218-726-8910
Dec. 30, Grand Rapids
Northwoods Holiday Fest
Revel in a winter wonderland of family fun with trolley and sleigh rides, dog sleds, snowshoeing, snow sculptures, a snow fort and launching snowballs and water balloons with a giant slingshot. Visitors can also tour the logging camp under winter conditions and enjoy wildlife shows and games inside the visitor center. Forest History Center. 218-327-4482
Dec. 30-31, Grand Marais
Michael Monroe Log Cabin Concert
Log Cabin Concerts are an intimate reception and concert featuring Michael Monroe and guests. Monroe is in his fourth decade of performing his original music blending rich vocals, guitars, bamboo and glass flutes together. Michael Monroe's Log Cabin. 612-789-2255
Dec. 31, Duluth
DSSO Pops: Purple Rain
Ring in 2018 with the Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra (DSSO) and one of Minnesota's greatest artists: Prince! This evening features a symphonic tribute to the Music of Prince as the full orchestra brings to life some of the biggest hits of this incomparable musician. Duluth Entertainment Convention Center Symphony Hall. 218-623-3776
Jan. 5-7, Sandstone
Sandstone Ice Festival
In its 13th year, this vibrant festival celebrates the best of winter adventure sports from ice climbing to skinny skiing, winter camping and shoe shoeing. It is a gathering of kindred spirits who share a love for all things cold. The Sandstone Ice Festival reaches winter lovers from around the Midwest and Canada. Don't miss the gear demonstrations, winter camping clinics, climbers Meet & Greet, the Great Swap & Swing, guest speakers, door prizes, and so much more! 651-302-1774
Jan. 6, Grand Marais
Gunflint Mail Run Sled Dog Race
The Gunflint Mail Run Sled Dog Race is a continuous race consisting of two legs of equal distance, separated by a mandatory layover for the 12-dog teams. There are two classes: a 12-dog race, 110-mile race and an 8-dog, 70-mile race. Experience this spectacular race. 218-387-3572
Jan. 13-14, Ely
Wolf Family Rendezvous
Spend quality time together learning about the north woods home of the wolf through hikes, crafts, games and observing our ambassador wolves. A full weekend of family fun! Registration ends Dec. 30. International Wolf Center. 218-365-4695
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