Event highlights this week include:
Dec. 28, Red Wing
C. Willi Myles
Dec. 28, Minneapolis
Kwanzaa at Midtown Global Market
Dec. 28, Carlos/Alexandria
10th Annual Christmas Bird Count
Dec. 28, Park Rapids
32 Below in Concert
Dec. 28, Two Harbors
Winter Falls Stroll & Exploring Snowshoeing
Southern Minnesota
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. 21-28, Owatonna
The Mystery Cafe presents - "I'll be Homicidal for Christmas"
It's December 23rd, 1978. Albee Humphrey used to be household name, but these days his star is fading. He's got one last shot at his big comeback — with a network televised Christmas special. There's celebrity guests, variety acts, and there's even rumor of a reunion with his former comedy partner - who he hasn't spoken to in 20 years. The Mystery Cafe dishes out a hilarious comedy caper by the Twin Cities' original comedy murder mystery dinner theater, where you and your table are invited to solve the crime, all while enjoying a delicious 3-course meal. Owatonna Country Club. 763-566-2583
Dec. 27, Rochester
In Cahoots, A Murder Mystery Fundraiser
Come to a show where you and your friends are the detectives working to solve the case. Enjoy live music by Ravensfire, free appetizers, a cash bar and prizes. Escape the house between the holidays for a little mysterious fun. The Castle Community, Les Fields Hall. 507-722-2731
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
Dec. 31, Red Wing
Monroe Crossing
Named in honor of Bill Monroe, Monroe Crossing dazzles audiences with an electrifying blend of classic bluegrass, bluegrass gospel and heartfelt originals. Their airtight harmonies, razor sharp arrangements, and on-stage rapport make them audience favorites across the United States and Canada. Sheldon Theatre. 651-388-8700
Dec. 31, Granite Falls
A Roaring 2020 New Year's Eve
Ring in the New Year in the hometown of Andrew Volstead. Dress in your finery and enter the speakeasy atmosphere with a password. Enjoy the music of Ian Hilmer and Drivestation, as well as dinner at The Rock. Bluenose Gopher Public House. 320-564-0034
Jan. 4, Pipestone
Pipestone County Christmas Bird Count
Bundle up, grab a camera or phone that takes good photos, join a group of birders for Pipestone's Christmas Bird Count and help document as many birds as possible. Before heading out, enjoy complimentary donuts and coffee. Pipestone National Monument. 507-825-5464
Jan. 5, Rochester
Unveiled Rochester
Step into the magical world of weddings and immerse yourself in a planning experience designed by The Wedding Guys. Experience a day of bridal eye-candy where inspiration is everywhere. Unveiled Rochester features the area's top wedding businesses, with new inspiration, ideas and trends. Mayo Civic Center Ballroom. 612-979-7778
Jan. 11, Henderson
Full Moon Snowshoe Hike
Enjoy the park after dark while embarking on a snowshoe hike with a naturalist as your guide. If the sky is clear, peer through a telescope to view the moon up close! All equipment provided. Reservations required online by Jan. 9 at www.neycenter.org. Ney Nature Center. 507-357-8580
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. 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
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. 651-644-6659; 651-202-2700
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. 20-28 (Fridays and Saturdays), St. Paul
Illumination
During Illumination, visitors can see all of their Science Museum favorites in whole new “light!” In addition, there will be new light-based interactive art installations, a large-scale video game that you can play using your phone as a controller, shadow puppet play, and an opportunity to help build a city of light. Illumination festivities will take place from 5 to 10 p.m., and are included in general museum admission. Java Lab and Chomp will be open during Illumination for a snack or meal, and cash bars located on each level will serve "electric" drinks for the kids! Cameras are encouraged! Science Museum of Minnesota. 651-221-9444
Dec. 26-31, Chanhassen
An Andy & Bing Christmas
When people are asked what their favorite Christmas albums are, the vast majority of people mention two albums: The classic Andy Williams Christmas Album and The Bing Crosby Christmas Album. The songs are timeless and the treatments are a perfect reflection of the holiday season. 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 your favorite songs sung by a remarkable group of professional singers! Chanhassen's cozy Fireside Theatre. 952-895-4685
Dec. 27 - Jan. 18, White Bear Lake
The Mystery Cafe Presents "I'll be Homicidal for Christmas"
It's December 23rd, 1978. Albee Humphrey used to be household name, but these days his star is fading. He's got one last shot at his big comeback - with a network televised Christmas special. There's celebrity guests, variety acts, and there's even rumor of a reunion with his former comedy partner - who he hasn't spoken to in 20 years. The Mystery Cafe dishes out a hilarious comedy caper by the Twin Cities' original comedy murder mystery dinner theater, where you and your table are invited to solve the crime, all while enjoying a delicious 3-course meal. Majestic Oaks Golf Club. 763-566-2583
Dec. 28, Minneapolis
Kwanzaa at Midtown Global Market
Midtown Global Market is hosting a free, family-friendly Kwanzaa celebration which will open with a traditional Libation Ceremony led by Minkara Tezet, a community fellow at the Cultural Wellness Center. (The Libation Ceremony is a tradition where a libation is poured in remembrance of ancestors, then passed throughout the family and community to promote the spirit of oneness.) Tastes of soul food side dishes, storytelling, drumming, kids' crafts, singing and poetry readings will also be offered. Midtown Global Market. 952-278-3140
Dec. 28, Anoka
Sonic Sol-fa Holiday Tour
Tonic Sol-fa is a ground-breaking a cappella ensemble from Minnesota, and they returning once again to Lyric Arts for a holiday concert. TSF stands as one of the leading forces in the world of vocal music with Emmy Award winning arrangements and multi-million selling compositions. Lyric Arts Main Street Theater. 763-422-1838
Dec. 31, Eagan
Family New Year's Eve Party
Celebrate all things winter with candlelight ice skating on a frozen lake, hiking and snowshoeing through the woods and walking on plowed paths, all lit by 1,000 flickering luminaries. Other highlights include sliding on a lit sledding hill, sipping cocoa at the A-frame, warming up and making s'mores at crackling bonfires! The countdown and ball drop will be at 7:59 p.m. Bring your own sleds and ice skates. S'mores and cocoa provided. Hot food available for purchase from food trucks. Lebanon Hills Visitor Center. 952-891-7000; 651-554-6530
Dec. 31, Minneapolis
Uptown NYE 2020
Ring in the New Year at one of the hottest New Year's Eve parties in Uptown Minneapolis. Top DJs will be spinning Top 40, Dance & Hip-Hop favorites. This event sells out, so get your tickets soon. Urban Eatery at Calhoun Beach Club. 612-466-0483
Dec. 31, St. Paul
Sparklerama: New Year's Eve Party
At this family-friendly New Year's Eve party, families will enjoy music, art projects, a beach ball drop and full access to the museum. Minnesota Children's Museum. 651-225-6000
Dec. 31, Richfield
New Year's Eve at Wood Lake: Candlelight & Ice
Looking for a peaceful, family-friendly New Year's Eve? Celebrate under the stars at Wood Lake Nature Center. Follow hundreds of candle-lit luminaries on wintery walking trails as you search for deer, fox and owls in the park. Then, warm up by roasting marshmallows and sipping hot cocoa at the bonfire. Wood Lake Nature Center. 612-861-9365
Dec. 31, Minneapolis
Countdown MPLS NYE 2020
Don't miss one of the best New Year's Eve parties in downtown Minneapolis, with top DJs, multiple levels, two dance floors and heated check-in and entry. Some lodging packages are available. The Minneapolis Club. 612-874-8892
Jan. 3-4, Shakopee
Pirtek Snocross National
Canterbury Park's Pirtek Snocross National brings the best extreme snowmobile riders in the country to Shakopee for two days or high-flying stunts and exhilarating racing. Watch riders soar over jumps and speed around the track from the indoor comfort of the Canterbury Park Grandstand. 952-445-6870
Jan. 5 - April 26 (most Sundays), Minneapolis
Washburn A Mill Tour
Take an in-depth look at the historic Washburn A Mill complex and the award-winning Mill City Museum building. A guide will take visitors into the building's many nooks and crannies, highlighting the lives of the men and women who worked there, how the building functioned during its peak flour-milling years, and the many changes to the building over time. This is the only opportunity for a guided tour through the entire museum building and the only chance to see some of its non-public spaces. Mill City Museum. 612-341-7555
Upcoming Twin Cities' concerts and performances include:
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 in Minneapolis, Jan. 21-26
Chris Tucker at Mystic Lake Casino Hotel, Jan. 23, 2020
World's Toughest Rodeo at the Xcel Energy Center, Jan. 24-25, 2020
Nick Jr. Live -- Move to the Music! at the Historic State Theatre in Minneapolis, Jan. 24-26, 2020
The Man in Black: Tribute to Johnny Cash at Mystic Lake Casino Hotel, Jan. 26, 2020
Tiffany Haddish: Live in Concert at Mystic Lake Casino Hotel, Jan. 30, 2020
Riverdance (Touring) at the Historic State Theatre, Jan. 31 - Feb. 2, 2020
Blue Man Group Speechless Tour at the Historic State Theatre, Feb. 4-9, 2020
Tickets are available through Hennepin Theatre Trust and Ticketmaster
Central Minnesota
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
Dec. 31, St. Cloud
Tonic Sol-fa Holiday Tour/New Year's Eve
The Emmy Award winning a cappella quartet brings a brand new holiday show to life. Enjoy the humor and soulful vocals that make this a holiday tradition for so many. Paramount Center for the Arts. 320-259-5463
Dec. 31, Lake Shore
Roaring 20s New Year's Eve Bash
The Roaring 20s NYE will be held at Zorbaz on Gull Lake with a DJ music at 9 p.m., free champagne at midnight, and a complimentary appetizer buffet. Zorbaz. 218-963-4790
Jan. 3-5, Breezy Point
25th Annual Ice Fest
The annual Ice Fest features a large Pond Hockey Tournament. Other festivities include bonfires on the beach, outdoor tent with beverage bars, free horse-drawn hay rides, snow golf on Breezy Bay, ice slide for the kids, dog sled rides, food and drink specials, and afternoon and evening live music performances in the Dockside Lounge. Breezy Point Resort. 218-562-7171
Jan. 4, St. Cloud
Michael Shynes Album Release
Michael Shynes returns one year after his sold out performance at the Paramount to release a new collection of songs with his eight-piece band and storyteller-style live show that pairs folk music with high energy pop and R&B. Shynes has become a platinum recording artist overseas. Paramount Center for the Arts. 320-259-5463
Jan. 4, Carlos
Candlelight Snowshoe/Ski
Enjoy an evening in the park snowshoeing, skiing or hiking by candlelight and moonlight. Hit the trails, guided by the full moon and candle luminaries, then warm up by the wood stove and enjoy snacks and refreshments in the Lakeview warming shelter. Lake Carlos State Park. 320-852-7200
Jan. 11, St. Cloud
The Belfast Cowboys - the Music of Van Morrison & More!
The Belfast Cowboys are a nine-piece band that specializes in the music of Van Morrison. Powered by a four-piece horn section, the Cowboys have risen to the top of the renowned Minnesota music scene, and have consistently packed houses and wowed crowds since 2002. Pioneer Place on Fifth. 320-203-0331; 320-227-8222
Northwest Minnesota
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
Dec. 28, Detroit Lakes
Live at The Lodge
Live at The Lodge featuring the David Ferreira Trio and Russ Peterson on saxophone. No cover charge. Drinks and appetizers will be for sale. The Lodge on Lake Detroit. 218-847-8439
Dec. 30 & 31, Bemidji
Inflatable Fun Festival
Head to Sanford Center for the Inflatable Fun Festival with bounce houses for everyone. And on Dec. 31, there will be a New Year's Eve Balloon Drop at 5 p.m. Sanford Center. 218-441-4000
Dec. 31, Bemidji
History Mystery
The Beltrami County Historical Society announces its 6th Annual History Mystery event, an entertaining and educational event on New Year’s Eve. The event begins with social time, snacks, and beverages from 4 p.m., with the “living Clue game” starting at 4:30 p.m. The game is a “who-done-it” with a fictitious murder at the depot and six “suspects” from Beltrami County History. The “suspects,” portrayed by local actors, will share information about their lives, then attendees will attempt to solve the crime to determine who did it, where the murder was committed and what the murder weapon was. Prizes will be awarded for first, second and third prize, and for best costumes. Beltrami County History Center (formerly the Great Northern Depot). 218-444-3376
Jan. 1, Park Rapids
First Day Hike: A Backcountry Exploration
Get your New Year’s resolutions going on the first day of the New Year! Join the park naturalist for an invigorating snowshoe hike along the Dr. Roberts Trail. Dress for being outdoors, and bring along your snowshoes, water and sunglasses. A limited number of snowshoes are available at the Jacob V. Brower Visitor Center for use during the program and are first-come-first-serve. Jacob V. Brower Visitor Center at Itasca State Park. 218-699-7251
Jan. 4, Detroit Lakes
Ultra 80s & Older Classic Cruise Snowmobile Ride
Bring your 80s and older classic snowmobiles to the fairgrounds for a ride to Vergas and back. Becker County Fairgrounds. 218-849-3069
Jan. 10-12, Thief River Falls
Ice Fest
Ice Fest is a new event that celebrates winter in Thief River Falls! Take part in dog sled rides, fat tire biking, 5K/10K runs, hockey games & much more. The event kicks off on Friday at 5 p.m. with the Fire & Ice Kickoff Social at River Walk Public House where you can enjoy fierce entertainment, frosty beer and delicious food. Ralph Engelstad Arena. 218-686-9785
Jan. 11-14, East Grand Forks
Northern Star Skating Competition
Don't miss the stunning routines and amazing skating skills of participants in the Northern Star Skating Competition. VFW Arena & Civic Center. 218-7779-5861
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. 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
Dec. 28, Silver Bay
Falcon Focus!
What makes a falcon different from hawks and eagles? And how can they fly at speeds over 200 mph? Come discover things that make a falcon such a unique species of bird of prey. Naturalist Jackie Fallon will bring several live birds to show you the differences in person. Don't forget your camera. Tettegouche State Park. 218-353-8809
Dec. 28, Carlton
Winter Bird I.D.
Ever wonder what kinds of birds are flocking to the bird feeders? Learn how to identify some common Minnesota winter birds, what their favorite foods are, and make and take your own winter bird mobile. Binoculars are available to use. Meet at the River Inn Interpretive Center. Participants are asked to pre-register. Jay Cooke State Park. 218-673-7000
Jan. 3-5, Sandstone
Sandstone Ice Festival
Sandstone Ice Festival is Minnesota's original ice festival, with ice climbing, snowshoeing, skinny skiing, winter camping, snowshoeing and all things winter. Also enjoy winter gear demos, a Climbers' Meet and Greet, the Great Swap & Swing, guest speakers, door prizes and raffle. The event is free and open to the public, but there is a fee for the climbing clinics. Robinson Park. 651-302-1774
Jan. 4, Lutsen
Yam Haus
The Minneapolis-based pop group, Yam Haus, is winning over the indie-dominated scene of the Twin Cities with "electro-poppy grooves and swooning vocals" (Star Tribune, June 2018). Tight guitars, dreamy synths and clean production from Grammy award-winning producer Mark Heimermann, helped drive year one successes. Papa Charlie's at Lutsen Mountains. 218-406-1320
Jan. 5, Meadowlands
Tracking and Animal Sign Field Trip
Often, when traversing the Sax-Zim Bog, tracks are encountered. But how do you know if you are looking at dog vs. wolf tracks? What is the difference between a hole made by a downy woodpecker and a black-backed woodpecker? Learn about the activity of Sax-Zim Bog critters through exploration of the area around the Welcome Center. Sax-Zim Bog. 218-341-3350
Jan. 11, Grand Rapids
Flying Foot Forum
Flying Foot Forum is a vibrant and bold percussive dance/theater company that fuses percussion and percussive dances with various forms of music, dance and theater, all while telling unusual tales, creating a wild variety of characters and exploring universal ideas in inventive and exciting new ways. Reif Center. 218-327-5780
Jan. 11-12, Meadowlands
Boreal Birds Weekend Adventure
Enjoy a multi-day, intensive birding experience and workshop featuring presentations by Executive Director, Sparky Stensaas, and Head Naturalist, Clinton Nienhaus. Each day will feature birding through northern Minnesota in search of special species that make the boreal forest home. Days will be long, and probably cold, but the group will be in and out of the van. There will be no snowshoeing or major bushwhacking. Most birding will be from roadsides, trails and boardwalks. Sax-Zim Bog. 218-341-3350
Be sure to visit the Explore Minnesota Events Page to learn of other festivals and events!
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