Event highlights this week include:
Dec. 5-15, Faribault
Peter Pan presented by the Paradise Community Theatre
Nov. 22 - Dec. 31, Stillwater
Hometown for the Holidays
Dec. 14, St. Cloud
City of St. Cloud's Weihnachtsmarkt & Christmas on the Prairie
Dec. 14, Moorhead
Christmas with the Comstocks
Dec. 13-15, Duluth
Arrowhead Ice Fishing & Winter Show
For a list of fun activities for friends and family this holiday season, be sure to check out 12 Ways to Celebrate the Holidays in Minnesota!
Southern Minnesota
Nov. 2 - Dec. 15, Rochester
Historic Mayowood Mansion Christmas Tours
The History Center of Olmsted County presents Historic Mayowood Mansion Christmas Tours. Tours will begin at the History Center of Olmsted County with light refreshments and an introductory film. Guests will then be taken to/from Mayowood Mansion via a vintage red trolley, courtesy of Rochester Trolley and Tour Co. Reservations are required. History Center of Olmsted County & the Historic Mayowood Mansion. 507-282-9447
Nov. 15 - Dec. 22, Lanesboro
Sanders Family Christmas
It's Christmas Eve, 1941, and America is going to war. But in North Carolina's little Mount Pleasant Baptist Church, the boisterous Sanders Family Singers band together with Reverend Mervin Oglethorpe to buoy the congregation's spirit. Conceived by a Commonweal favorite, director Alan Bailey, and brimming with warmth, hilarity and foot-stomping bluegrass music, Sanders Family Christmas will have your toes tapping and your heart singing. Commonweal Theatre Company. 507-467-2525
Nov. 29 - Dec. 31, Mankato
Kiwanis Holiday Lights
Walk or drive through this year's Kiwanis Holiday Lights display of over 1.5 million LED lights. In addition, there will be a skating rink and warming house, horse-drawn wagon rides, Santa Claus, live reindeer, ice sculptures and more! Admission is free for all vehicles and walkers. Non-perishable food items are collected each night for area food shelves. Cash donations are accepted. Sibley Park. 507-385-9129
Dec. 5-15, Faribault
Peter Pan presented by the Paradise Community Theatre
This superb adaptation captures all the magic and charm of this favorite story. The Darling children love to hear of Peter Pan’s adventures during his visits through the open window of the nursery. Then one night after Nana has taken his shadow and Wendy has sewn it back on, Peter Pan and Tinker Bell whisk the children off to Neverland to be part of the adventures. Wendy, John and Michael become friends with the Lost Boys and Princess Tiger Lily, and Wendy becomes everyone's mother. When the evil Captain Hook captures Wendy and the Lost Boys, Peter Pan comes to their rescue. Paradise Center for the Arts. 507-332-7372
Dec. 14, Henderson
Christmas Bird Count
Join the Ney Nature Center for its annual Christmas Bird Count! Families, friends, professional and novice birders will head out with bird guides and checklists to observe their bird feeding stations or explore select areas within a 7.5 mile radius of the Nature Center. Simultaneously, thousands of volunteers throughout the Americas will take part in this adventure that has become a tradition. Ney Nature Center. 507-248-3474
Dec. 14, Winona
Winona Holiday Market
A new holiday tradition, the Winona Holiday Market, will feature over 25 one-of-a-kind artisan vendors from all over the region. The Market will also be the kickoff of Let's Levee: Winter Edition with food trucks, hot beverages, mulled wines and the grand opening of the Levee Park Ice Skating Rink. Levee Park. 507-457-8258
Dec. 14, Austin
Christmas in the County
The Mower County Historical Society presents Christmas in the County with indoor and outdoor children's activities, including great food, a bake sale, silent auction, horse-drawn sleigh and wagon rides, raffle and visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Pioneer Building. 507-437-6082
Dec. 20, Red Wing
Continental Ballet Company: The Nutcracker
Especially designed for families, this seasoned production develops themes of generosity, non-violence and responsibility through the timeless tale of Clara's fantastic voyage to the Land of the Sugarplum Fairy with her magical godfather, Drosselmeyer. The Continental Ballet Company's Nutcracker has toured throughout Minnesota, and is a beloved annual tradition at the Sheldon Theatre. 651-388-8700
Dec. 20, Faribault
Joseph Hall: Elvis Rock n' Remember Christmas Show
Joseph Hall returns after three straight sell-out shows at the Paradise for his acclaimed Holiday Show! Joseph has performed all over the world and was a finalist on American's Got Talent. Joseph is officially endorsed by Elvis Presley Enterprises, is a recipient of the prestigious Spirit of Elvis award, and is recognized as one of the top Elvis tribute artists in the world today. Paradise Center for the Arts. 507-332-7372
Dec. 20-22, Austin
The Best Christmas Pageant Ever
Matchbox Children's Theatre will perform The Best Christmas Pageant Ever. See six children in the notorious, horrible Herdman family volunteer to star in their town's Sunday school Christmas pageant, eventually teaching everyone the true meaning of Christmas. Historic Paramount Theatre. 507-437-9078
Dec. 21, Pipestone
The Holy Rocka Rollaz Holiday Show
Take an authentic trip back to the fantastic 50s with The Holy Rocka Rollaz! If it's the classic early rock 'n' roll and rockabilly of Elvis Presley, Buddy Holly, Chuck Berry, Johnny Cash (and many more!) that you want, played just the way those legends played it — you have found your dream band! Minnesota's own Holy Rocka Rollaz bring back the sound, the look, the memories and nostalgia of one of America's most treasured eras. Pipestone Performing Arts Center. 507-825-2020
Dec. 28, Red Wing
C. Willi Myles
A veteran performer and an extremely funny guy, C. Willi Myles has the gift of connecting people with each other through humor and storytelling that everyone can relate to. After surviving his childhood growing up with nine sisters and one brother in Alabama, Willi moved to Minnesota to attend college and play football. With his stories about growing up in the south and acclimating to the cold of Minnesota, Willi tells extremely funny, non-offensive stories that give a unique, laugh-out-loud spin to life's everyday challenges. Sheldon Theatre. 651-388-8700
Minneapolis-St. Paul Area
Nov. 8 - Jan. 5, Shakopee
Sever's Holiday Lights
Drive along and enjoy more than 1,000,000 lights synchronized to classic holiday tunes for an unforgettable new Twin Cities tradition. Stay in the comfort and warmth of your own vehicle while enjoying this one-of-a-kind magical display. Sip on hot cocoa and snack on mini donuts, caramel popcorn and other treats from Drew’s Concessions. Sever's new site at 3121 W 150th Street. 952-270-6293
Nov. 15 - Dec. 23, Wayzata
Arts of the Holidays
During Arts of the Holidays, you can shop fine arts and crafts by more than 130 local artists, selected for character and value, and perfect for holiday giving. This is a great way to shop local and support the arts, all in a relaxing setting. Lunch is available Mondays through Fridays. Minnetonka Center for the Arts. 952-473-7361
Nov. 21 - Jan. 2, Bloomington
Take Flight to the North Pole at FlyOver America!
FlyOver America will transform into a magical winter wonderland for the holiday season. Guests will have fun helping Santa search for his missing elves during an exhilarating flight across America and onto the North Pole. It's time to take your holiday traditions to new heights! Mall of America. 952-853-6000
Nov. 22 - Dec. 31, Stillwater
Hometown for the Holidays
Historic Main Street Stillwater will come alive with Christmas lights, decorations and events for a month-long celebration. Enjoy strolling costumed Victorian carolers, strolling Santa, "It's a Wonderful Life" at the Zephyr Theatre, a "Sinatra Christmas My Way" at Pys, performances of "The Nutcracker," Holiday Teas at the Historic Lowell Inn, B&B tours, free horse-drawn Victorian wagonette rides along the river, shopping specials, a Twinkle Parade with live music and Santa, live reindeer, Breakfast with Santa, holiday cooking classes, a Downton Abbey Christmas Dinner at Outing Lodge at Pine Point and so much more. Get in the old-fashioned holiday spirit! Historic Main Street. 651-351-1717; 651-275-7075
Nov. 22 - Jan. 5 (Fridays through Sundays), Chaska
Winter in Bloom Lights Display
Outdoor and indoor holiday lights celebrate the season! Indoors, find the Great Hall of Trees with a live poinsettia tree and decorated trees with nature-inspired ornaments and greens. Outside, enjoy a self-guided walking tour of lighted nature-inspired installations and more. Other highlights include hot family-friendly food in the cafe, a cash bar, live music Saturdays and Sundays, and free shuttle service Friday and Saturday nights. Winter in Bloom will also be open Dec. 23, and the week of Dec. 26 through Jan. 2. Inquire about additional special holiday events offered during the month of December! Minnesota Landscape Arboretum. 612-624-2200
Nov. 29 - Dec. 22 (Thursdays through Sundays), Minneapolis
Holidazzle
Holidazzle is Minneapolis' premier holiday celebration. This free event is filled with activities including ice skating with complimentary skates available, fireworks, movies, a Kids' Zone, interactive art, festive lighting and more. Enjoy local foods, beverages and gift items along the way. Holidazzle is about holiday traditions and creating memories. Loring Park. 612-376-7669; 612-338-3807
Dec. 6, 7, 13 & 14, Roseville
Wreck the Halls: Haunted Basement presents "The Workshop"
'Tis the season to be...scary? For thirteen years, the Haunted Basement has built a reputation as one of the top October stops on the Twin Cities scare circuit. Its annual haunt is known for interactive, artist-driven designs and absurdist psychological horror. Still lurking in Rosedale Shopping Center’s lower southeast corner, The Workshop will invite brave patrons—18 and older—to explore a disturbing den of yuletide terror. Rosedale Shopping Center. 612-444-2191
Dec. 6 - Feb. 22, St. Paul
Destination Winter Saint Paul
Destination Winter Saint Paul is bringing a one-of-a-kind experience to Lowertown. All ages will enjoy the relocation of Wells Fargo WinterSkate from Landmark Plaza to the playing surface at CHS Field, as well as the return of the 40-foot Securian SuperSlide for the first time since Super Bowl LII. Be sure to check out the nearby Union Depot European Christmas Market, Dec. 13-22! 651-644-6659; 651-202-2700
Dec. 7, 14 & 21, Excelsior
Christmas in Excelsior
Christmas in Excelsior is a magical time. Trees are adorned with white lights, old-fashioned lamp poles entwined with evergreens and holly, and snow-covered streets filled with bustling shoppers. On Dec. 7, kids will enjoy a free movie and visits with Santa, along with carolers, wagon rides, carriage rides, chili dinner with Santa, and the lighting of the Veteran's Memorial Tree. On Dec 14 & 21, the Masonic Lodge will host Santa, and there will be a Hot Cocoa Bar and wagon rides. Downtown Excelsior. 952-474-6461
Dec. 7 - Jan. 3, St. Paul
Holiday Flower Show at the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory
The Holiday Flower Show tradition began in 1925 and continues to be the most anticipated and visited flower attraction at the Conservatory today. The Holiday Show will feature Ice Punch Poinsettia along with Kalanchoe Cher, Eucalyptus and Persian Shield. Como Park Zoo and Conservatory. 651-487-8201
Dec. 13-14, Shakopee
Arts & Crafts Fair
Try delicious Indian Tacos and find unique Native American handcrafted goods such as beadwork and jewelry. Hocokata Ti’s 3,805-square-foot public exhibit, Mdewakanton: Dwellers of the Spirit Lake, provides visitors with a cultural experience that enhances their knowledge and understanding of the Mdewakanton Dakota people and their history. Hocokata Ti. 952-233-9151
Dec. 14-15 & 21-22, Apple Valley
Holiday Events at the Zoo
Be merry at the Minnesota Zoo, and enjoy carolers, holiday crafts, Zookeeper talks and more! Visits with Santa will be offered each Saturday. Minnesota Zoo. 952-431-9200
Dec. 15, St. Paul
Santa's Workshop
Santa's Workshop is a free holiday event for children to make a holiday gift, wrap it and take it home for a loved one. Other highlights include reindeer games, treats and visits with Santa! Landmark Center. 651-292-3225
Dec. 21-22, Minneapolis
Julbord - A Swedish Christmas Feast
The Julbord, or Christmas smorgasbord, is one of favorite traditions at the American Swedish Institute (ASI), and a great way to celebrate the holiday with friends and family. This Scandinavian feast delivers a full selection of traditional dishes, such as meatballs, herring and delectable desserts prepared by the talented FIKA chefs. Cash bar available. And don't miss Through the Years: Holidays at ASI, running through Jan. 12, 2020. This year's holiday exhibition commemorates the 90th anniversary of the American Swedish Institute. 612-871-4907
Dec. 22, Burnsville
An Andy & Bing Christmas
An Andy & Bing Christmas, featuring Mick Sterling, Ben Utecht and the Dakota Valley Symphony, is a great way to celebrate the holiday season with family and friends. Hear songs such as The Most Wonderful Time of the Year, Santa Claus is Coming to Town, White Christmas, and all your favorites sung by a remarkable group of professional singers! Ames Center. 952-895-4685
Upcoming Twin Cities' concerts and performances include:
The Band's Visit (Touring) at the Historic Orpheum Theatre in Minneapolis, Dec. 10-15
The Blenders at the Pantages Theatre in Minneapolis, Dec. 12-15
Loyce Houlton's Nutcracker Fantasy at the Historic State Theatre in Minneapolis, Dec. 13-23
Twin Cities Ballet: A Minnesota Nutcracker at Ames Center in Burnsville, Dec. 13-15
Monster Jam at the U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, Dec. 14
Tonic Sol-Fa at Ames Center in Burnsville, Dec. 17
An Andy and Bing Christmas at Ames Center in Burnsville, Dec. 22
Nick Swardson at Treasure Island Resort & Casino in Welch, Dec. 27-28
Trans-Siberian Orchestra 2019 at the Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul, Dec. 28
Cheap Trick at Treasure Island Resort & Casino, Dec. 31
Rick Springfield at Mystic Lake Casino Hotel in Prior Lake, Dec. 31
Oprah's 2020 Vision: Your Life in Focus at the Xcel Energy Center, Jan. 11, 2020
1964 The Tribute at Ames Center in Burnsville, Jan. 18, 2020
John Mueller's Winter Dance Party at Ames Center, Jan. 20, 2020
Jesus Christ Superstar (Touring) at the Historic Orpheum Theatre, Jan. 21-26
Tickets are available through Hennepin Theatre Trust and Ticketmaster
Central Minnesota
Dec. 13-15, Dassel
The Best Christmas Pageant Ever
A charming comedy about a group of siblings from the wrong side of the tracks who join an annual Sunday School Christmas program. Based on the classic children's book. Dassel History Center & Ergot Museum. 320-275-3077
Dec. 14, St. Cloud
City of St Cloud's Weihnachtsmarkt & Christmas on the Prairie
Downtown St. Cloud (5th Avenue - Under the Festoon Lights) will be the site of a Christmas Tree Lighting with heated tents, plenty of traditional German food and drink such as Gluhwein (warm, spiced wine), and Christmas cookies, bratwurst and sauerkraut, live music, food and craft vendors. That evening, head to Pioneer Place on Fifth for Christmas on the Prairie with Mary Jane Alm, Aimée Lee & Boyd Lee, featuring Pat Donohue and members of A Prairie Home Companion's "Guy's All Star Shoe Band." Spend your Christmas holiday with two of the Twin Cities most talked about groups as they join together for a rare and very special holiday concert! 320-255-7200; 320-227-8222
Dec. 14, Wahkon
S.N.O.W.FEST 7
S.N.O.W.FEST 7 is a celebration of snowmobiling wrapped around a snowmobile film festival. The day will begin with a vintage snowmobile show and film festival, followed by a silent auction, dealer demos and specials on new sleds, and door prizes. Muggs of Mille Lacs in downtown Wahkon. 612-805-4738
Dec. 20-21, Alexandria
Seven Santas - Stage Play
This is the long-awaited follow-up to The Eight: Reindeer Monologues! This time, it's Santa's turn, and Christmas will never be the same. Scandal erupts at the North Pole when the most powerful man on Earth is sentenced to rehab for a minor traffic violation. But when he finds himself in a detox program run by the estranged Mrs. Claus, Santa's desperate struggle to conceal the truth about his arrest uncovers yet another sordid secret that could mean the end of Christmas-as-we-know-it. This show contains adult language. Fire Pit Productions. 320-815-7664
Dec. 21, Isle
Brunch with Santa
Head to Appeldoorn's Sunset Bay Resort & Event Center for brunch, cookie decorating and pictures with Santa. You can even get a picture of your pet with Santa in the afternoon. 320-676-8834
Dec. 28, Carlos/Alexandria
10th Annual Christmas Bird Count
Take part in the 120th Audubon Christmas Bird Count. Explore the Alexandria count area in search of winter bird residents. Stay a few hours or spend the entire day. Information collected is used to track migration patterns and changes in winter bird species abundance. Lake Carlos State Park. 320-852-7200
Dec. 28, Isle
New Year's Eve Party
Celebrate New Year's Eve a little early and enjoy dinner and drink specials followed by live music. Room rates start at $99. Appeldoorn's Sunset Bay Resort and Event Center. 320-676-8834
Northwest Minnesota
Nov. 29 - Dec. 21, Moorhead
Theatre B Presents "The Last Schwartz"
In this fresh and funny “holiday” drama, the Schwartz siblings gather for a Yarzheit — the anniversary of their father’s death. And as with any distant relatives, things get awkward and complicated when everyone’s together. Theatre B. 701-729-8880
Dec. 6-8, 14, 19 & 21, Park Rapids
Heart of the Holidays and More Festive Events
Celebrate the holidays with numerous festive events in Park Rapids including performances of A Dickens' Christmas Carol, Christmas at Timber Creek, Christmas movie matinees, A Magical Medora Christmas and a performance of A Christmas Carol. And don't miss Santa & Mrs. Claus at Bella Cafe on Dec. 7, 14 & 21. Various venues in Park Rapids. 218-732-4111
Dec. 14, Bemidji
Tenth Avenue North
Tenth Avenue North will perform their show "Decade The Halls" with music by Plumb and special guest Land of Color. Take a journey through the decades of Christmas that includes spectacular music, pageantry and time travel! Sanford Center. 218-441-4000
Dec. 14, Moorhead
Christmas with the Comstocks
Celebrate a Victorian Christmas at the historic Comstock House which will be all decked-out for the holidays. Learn about the Christmas customs of the Comstock family and other Victorian traditions. Play Victorian parlor games, listen to live music and enjoy hot cocoa and holiday treats. Historic Comstock House. 218-291-4211
Dec. 20, Mahnomen
The Oak Ridge Boys
The Oak Ridge Boys have one of the most recognized and silky country sounds of any band ever. Their four-part harmonies are smoother than Tennessee whiskey and their numerous hits have earned them Grammy, Dove, CMA and ACM awards. Don't miss this amazing night filled with hits such as "Elvira," "Bobbie Sue," and "Thank God for Kids," as well as their favorite holiday songs. Shooting Star Casino. 800-313-7469
Dec. 21, Bemidji
Winter Solstice Celebration
The winter solstice has been celebrated all over the world for thousands of years. This date signals the first day of winter, after which the days start getting longer! After learning more about this special day, make a nature-inspired Winter Solstice lantern. This program is appropriate for all ages but adults will need to assist with the lantern making since hot glue guns will be used. Some refreshments will be provided, and a state park permit is required to attend this program. Lake Bemidji State Park. 218-308-2328
Dec. 28, Park Rapids
32 Below in Concert
32 Below returns to Zorbaz in Park Rapids for a night of great music, fun, food and drink! Zorbaz restaurant and night club. 218-237-1969
Northeast Minnesota
Nov. 15 - Jan. 5, Duluth
Christmas Tours at Glensheen Mansion
The Glensheen Mansion is your Christmas by day Christmas activity during the holiday season in Duluth. See 25 Christmas Trees and hunt for 25 hidden elves in the 39-room mansion! Try to spot the hidden elves as you admire the 25 Christmas trees, sample a free Christmas cookie recreated from Clara’s very own shortbread cookie recipe, and finish off your tour by exploring the lakeside snowy grounds. Historic Glensheen Mansion. 218-726-8910
Nov. 23 - Dec. 28, Duluth
Bentleyville "Tour of Lights"
Experience America's largest free walk-through lighting display! This quintessential holiday event has something for everyone. Visitors will be amazed by the 4 million+ lights, the 128-foot Christmas tree and all the free treats! Children 10 and under will receive a new knit hat and a bag of cookies from Santa. Admission and visits with Santa Claus are free but a new unwrapped toy or nonperishable food donation are encouraged. Bayfront Festival Park. 218-740-3535
Dec. 12-14, Duluth
The Santaland Diaries
This outrageous holiday comedy starring Crumpet is back again for this joyous season. Based on the essays of David Sedaris, The Santaland Diaries recount the true-life tale of an out-of-work writer's stint as a Macy's department store elf. The Underground Theatre. 218-733-7555
Dec. 12-22, Duluth
The Wizard of Oz
Living on a Kansas farm with her aunt, uncle and dog Toto, Dorothy Gale wishes for a more exciting life. When a twister hits, Dorothy is whisked away to the dazzling world of Oz, a fantastical place filled with munchkins, a cowardly lion, a tin man with no heart, a living scarecrow...and a wicked witch that will do whatever it takes to get her hands on Dorothy's ruby red slippers! Don't miss this chance to travel over the rainbow and down the yellow brick road! NorShor Theatre. 218-733-7555
Dec. 13-15, Grand Marais
Dark Sky Festival
Cook County is home to one of the darkest skies in the nation. Every year, explorers, adventurers, artists and photographers from around the world travel to Cook County to experience the northern lights. Festivities will include a Lights Out Dark Sky Festival Kickoff at Harbor Park, the City Lights, Starry Nights Documentary Film at the Arrowhead Center for the Arts, the UMD GeoDome traveling planetarium at Voyageur Brewing Company, City Lights, Starry Nights Documentary and presentations at the North House Folk School, and much more. Sites throughout Cook County. 218-387-2524
Dec. 13-15, Duluth
Arrowhead Ice Fishing & Winter Show
Join fellow ice anglers and winter enthusiasts during the Arrowhead Ice Fishing & Winter Show. Shop the season's top brands, newest technology and one-of-a-kind products. Also, visit the live Alaskan Grizzly Bear exhibit, fish for trout at the frozen basin, win prizes, learn fishing tips at the Ice Box from the pros, get your free photo inside the life-size Snow Globe and take a selfie at the interactive 3D Street Art Experience! Duluth Entertainment Convention Center. 952-431-9630
Dec. 13-15, Duluth
Minnesota Ballet: The Nutcracker
Holiday magic begins with the Minnesota Ballet's sparkling production of the holiday favorite, The Nutcracker. The whole family will relish in the merry party with children's hijinks, the Mouse King's flying leap into battle with the Nutcracker, the flurry of twirling snowflakes, winsome gingerbread children emerging from Mother Ginger's enormous skirt, and the swirling bouquet of waltzing flowers. The Minnesota Ballet Orchestra plays the Tchaikovsky score live. Symphony Hall at the DECC. 218-529-3742
Dec. 14, Grand Rapids
Christmas in the Logging Camp Family Day
North Woods No. 1, the Forest History Center's recreated 1900s logging camp, comes to life under a blanket of snow during this yearly event. Join the logging camp crew as they get ready to celebrate Christmas, and enjoy sleigh rides, hot chocolate, cider and more. Bring a camera and have your picture taken with Santa! Forest History Center. 218-327-4482
Dec. 21, Grand Rapids
Rock & Roll Xmas
Rock & Roll Christmas is a Las Vegascaliber, multimedia, full-production show that mixes an 8-piece band with music, comedy, parodies and even a game show! Join an all-star cast of musicians as they rock their way through timeless holiday classics and bring new takes on hit songs you didn't even know were holiday classics. Reif Center. 218-327-5780
Dec. 28, Two Harbors
Winter Falls Stroll & Exploring Snowshoeing
From 11 a.m. to noon, explore a bit of history, nature and geology on this gentle walk to Upper Falls. Join the naturalist by the fireplace in the Visitor Center. Dress for the weather and wear comfortable boots — cleats are recommended. At 1 p.m., discover the quiet enjoyment of the low-impact sport on snowshoeing. Begin in the Visitor Center Theater for a brief history and basic instructions, then join the naturalist for a hike to the CCC Camp looking for signs of wildlife and winter wonders. Bring your own snowshoes or borrow a pair from the park. Gooseberry Falls State Park. 218-595-7108
Be sure to visit the Explore Minnesota Events Page to learn of other festivals and events!
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