This post, featuring some of the best holiday things to do with kids in Minnesota, may contain affiliate links. For more, please read my Disclaimer & Disclosure Policy.
As a Minnesota mom who’s spent nearly a decade searching for the best holiday things to do with kids, I’m excited to share our ultimate Minnesota holiday bucket list for families! This guide is packed with festive favorites, from the best holiday festivals and events in Minneapolis and Saint Paul to can’t-miss activities worth taking a winter day trip to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for dazzling light displays, hands-on holiday fun, or unique festive foodie finds, this list has it all (including 15 ideas, but over 40 unique locations or recommendations!). Let’s make this season magical with the best holiday events in the Twin Cities in 2024. Happy holidays!
All dates listed are for the 2024 holiday season.
Visit One (or More!) of these Fun Festive Holiday Markets for Families
Dates vary and are listed below.
One of our favorite Minnesota holiday bucket list experiences for families is visiting festive holiday markets. These European-style Christmas markets are perfect for finding unique gifts from local vendors and soaking up the holiday spirit.
We love wandering through the twinkling stalls, picking out handcrafted ornaments, and sampling festive treats. Plus, the markets are packed with kid-friendly activities like cookie decorating, live music, and even visits from Santa.
While walking around, my daughter usually enjoys hot cocoa with marshmallows, and I often warm up with a cup of mulled wine. Not to mention, we love munching on delicious market fare like raclette, pierogies, and more—it’s the perfect way to savor the season. When looking for fun Christmas events in Minneapolis or Saint Paul with kids, these markets offer a magical, family-friendly experience that’s not to be missed!
Here are 10 of the top holiday markets in the Twin Cities (and beyond) with kids. Be sure to add them to your list of fun holiday things to do with kids in Minnesota!
- Palace Theatre Holiday Market in downtown Saint Paul – one weekend only, November 29 (2 – 8pm) and November 30 (10am-6pm)
- Minnesota Merry Market at the State Fair at the Minnesota State Fairgrounds in Saint Paul – two weekends only, December 14-15 + 21-22 (10am-5pm each day)
- *NEW* Minneapolis Christkindl Market in Minneapolis (North Loop) – weekends, November 22 – December 22
- European Christmas Market at Union Depot in Saint Paul – weekends, November 29 – December 22
- Nordic Village Market at Four Seasons Hotel Minneapolis (North Loop) – weekends, November 2 – December 22
- Excelsior Christkindlsmarkt in Excelsior – one weekend only, Friday–Sunday, November 29 – December 1
- Holidazzle in Minneapolis (Nicollet Mall) – one weekend only, Thursday, December 18 – Sunday, 22
- Julmarknad Handcraft Market in Minneapolis – one weekend only, Saturday + Sunday, December 7 and 8
- The Dayton’s Holiday Market in Minneapolis – daily, November 14 – December 28
- Christmas Market at Villa Bellezza Winery in Pepin, Wisconsin – Saturdays + Sundays, November 16 – December 22
Meet Festive Llamas at Santa Claus Lane, Excelsior
November 29 – December 22. Use code kneadtoroam for 10% off General Admission, Day, and Season Passes.
Get ready for a holiday adventure unlike any other at Santa Claus Lane in Excelsior, where festive fun meets unforgettable moments with your kids! Your ticket unlocks a full day of free activities, including a visit with Santa himself, live performances at the Creo Stage, and a chance to walk a Christmas llama. Talk about one of the best holiday things to do with kids who love animals in Minnesota!
Afterward, stroll through the vibrant holiday market featuring 20+ local vendors, which is perfect for picking up unique gifts while supporting Minnesota makers.
Want to experience it all season long? A Season Pass gives your family access to exclusive shows, Santa’s Workshop, and various magical events across 103 scenic acres—making this a must-visit spot for Christmas events and things to do near Minneapolis with kids.
Delight in Magical Light Displays (Walk-thru + Drive-thru)
Dates vary and are listed below.
One of the best holiday activities in/near Minneapolis and Saint Paul has to be experiencing one (or more!) of the many magical light displays—it’s a must on our Minnesota holiday bucket list for families! Whether we bundle up for a walk-thru wonderland or enjoy a cozy drive-thru show from the warmth of the car, there’s something so special about seeing the night light up with holiday magic. These displays are a whimsical way to kick off the holiday season and make memories that last long after the lights come down!
Here are 9 of our favorite holiday light displays in Minnesota + Western Wisconsin for families (all within 2 hours of Minneapolis)!
- Miracle at Big Rock in St. Croix Falls, WI (our favorite one!) – November 29 – January 4, 2025
- GLOW Holiday Festival in Saint Paul – November 21 – January 5, 2025
- Minnesota Landscape Arboretum Winter Lights in Chaska – November 21 – January 5, 2025 (pre-purchased tickets are required)
- Magic Lights Viking Lakes in Eagan – November 22 – January 5, 2025
- Sever’s Holiday Lights in Shakopee – November 28 – December 29
- Kiwanis Holiday Lights in Mankato – November 29 – December 31
- Bentleyville “Tour of Lights” in Duluth – November 23 – December 28th
- Sam’s Christmas Village & Light Tour in Somerset, WI – November 29 – January 1, 2025
- Irvine Park Christmas Village in Chippewa Falls, WI – Thanksgiving Night – January, 2025 (free, donations are accepted)
Gingerbread Wonderland at Norway House, Minneapolis
November 19 – January 4, 2025
One of the best holiday things for kids in Minnesota is visiting the Gingerbread Wonderland at Norway House in Minneapolis. Inspired by Norway’s famous “Pepperkakebyen,” this community-curated gingerbread town has been a local family favorite for years.
Kids love spotting iconic Twin Cities buildings reimagined in gingerbread—from U.S. Bank Stadium to the whimsical Wild Rumpus Books. The intricate details and creativity behind each piece are incredible, making it a magical stop on any Minnesota holiday bucket list for families.
Afterward, you can grab a holiday treat from Ingebretsen’s coffee shop— a sweet ending to a festive outing together! This is a must-see for any family looking to experience the joy of holiday activities in Minneapolis this season.
READ NEXT: 8 EPIC Bucket List Winter Getaways in Minnesota for Families to Play in the Snow
Celebrate the Winter Solstice with Kids
Saturday, December 21
Celebrating the Winter Solstice has become a cherished tradition in our home—and I invite you to celebrate with us. It’s a cozy way to slow down and connect before the final holiday rush. It’s also a fun thing to do in Minnesota this December!
As the longest night of the year, it marks the return of the sun, a hopeful reminder of brighter days ahead. We often celebrate by lighting candles, baking spiced cookies, and reading stories together. It’s a special evening where we take time to reflect, snuggle up under blankets, and enjoy simple moments together. It’s become one of our favorite ways to bring light into the darkest night of the year and kick off the rest of the festive season with love and coziness.
Here is how we usually celebrate the Winter Solstice at home.
- Create homemade lanterns or candles to encourage the sun to return, and to celebrate the light in our lives.
- Make Wassail, a traditional “warming” drink to keep us warm through the dark night.
- Prepare a feast together featuring wild game + seasonal produce (we’ve done elk, duck, etc. in the past).
- Spend dinner + the evening by candlelight.
- Reflect on the past season of life, as well as the future. We also plan to set goals for the new year to continue to be as sustainable as possible as a family.
- Get cozy by the fire while we read books and play games together.
- If it’s a weekend, we love adding a winter hike to our day to celebrate outdoors.
Enjoy a Festive Dining Experience
Dates vary and are listed below.
Festive dining experiences add a fun and delicious twist to any Minnesota holiday bucket list for families with kids! We love visiting holiday pop-up restaurants around the Twin Cities this time of year. They offer a fun reason to get dressed up and celebrate the season!
Decked halls with over-the-top decorations, twinkling lights, and seasonal menus, these tasty spots truly bring the holiday spirit to life through food and community. Many of these pop-ups also offer kid-friendly treats like s’more deserts and candy cane sweets, making it a hit for the whole family. These restaurants are undoubtedly among the best holiday things to do with kids in Minnesota, creating magical memories over a meal that feels like a scene straight out of a Christmas movie!
Here are our favorite holiday dining experiences in the Twin Cities!
- The Chalet Dining Experience at the Winter Village by The Westin Edina Galleria in Edina. Reservations start December 4, but they are booking now. This experience is best for older kids, teens, and adult groups.
- Enjoy unique holiday foods at one of the many nearby holiday markets. See the list above for ideas! This is an excellent option for all ages.
- Magical holiday pop-up dining experiences, like The Creekside Supper Club, the restaurant at Nicollet Island Inn, and Hell-a-dazzle at Hell’s Kitchen in Minneapolis. Meritage in Saint Paul usually decorates for the holidays, too! These restaurants are good for all ages, and many offer dedicated kids’ menus.
- Igloo dining across the region, including Pier 500 in Hudson, Wisconsin, and Dukes on 7 in Minnetonka. Both are great for all ages!
- Holiday high tea at The Mad Hatter in Anoka, the Edina location of The Lynhall, or the Saint Paul Hotel in Saint Paul. The restaurant at Nicollet Island Inn in Minneapolis also offers a holiday high tea. All of them are accepting reservations now through most of December.
Check Out the Holiday Experience at the American Swedish Institute, Minneapolis
Tomte the Gnome Experience, November 9 – January 26, 2025, + the Julmarknad Handcraft Market & Festival is December 7 + 8
The Holiday Experience at the American Swedish Institute is one of the best holiday events with kids in the Twin Cities in 2024. Explore the historic Turnblad Mansion, a stunning 1908 structure filled with 33 festive rooms decorated to celebrate Nordic traditions. While you visit, learn about holiday folklore like the tomte (Scandinavian gnomes), adding a fun cultural twist to your visit.
Then, the Julmarknad Handcraft Market is another highlight, featuring unique handmade gifts and tasty Scandinavian treats. Between the festive crafts, pop-up performances, and delicious bites from the Jul Shop, it’s an immersive way to experience holiday magic and history all in one place. One of the best things to do in Minnesota in December, it’s the perfect family outing to soak up the season’s spirit and find special gifts.
Pick Your Own Christmas Tree
Dates vary; check individual websites for schedule, availability, and special Christmas events.
Whether you’ve never done it before or you do it every year, cutting down your own Christmas tree is an excellent addition to any Minnesota holiday bucket list for families with kids! Just a short drive from Minneapolis and Saint Paul, you’ll find several cozy tree farms where the experience is all about holiday magic.
While we don’t do it every year, we have loved searching for the perfect tree amongst a forest of options when we do. There is something special about running through the rows of evergreens until we find “the one”.
Many of these farms make a whole day of it, with hot cocoa, bonfires, and even visits from Santa. It’s the perfect way to kick off the Christmas season with your family. Plus, you get a fresh, fragrant tree to bring home and decorate together. Cutting down your own tree is undoubtedly one of the best Christmas things to do near Minneapolis and Saint Paul with kids.
Here are a few family-friendly places to pick your own Christmas tree this year!
- Rum River Tree Farm in Oak Grove
- Krueger’s Christmas Tree Farm in Lake Elmo
- Hansen Tree Farm in Ramsey
- Find more (or options closer to you) here.
Embrace the Holidays at the Mall of America
Looking for fun indoor holiday things to do with kids in Minnesota? Embrace the festive magic at the Mall of America. We love visiting Santa at the Candy Cane Institute, where the holiday magic is palpable in the whimsical setting.
Plus, the Mall is decked out with twinkling lights, festive decorations, and plenty of holiday cheer, making it feel like an indoor winter wonderland. It’s not just about shopping for gifts—though there’s no shortage of great stores—it’s the perfect place to enjoy family-friendly fun.
Kids of all ages love the seasonal holiday shows and the excitement of riding the rollercoasters at Nickelodeon Universe. Whether you’re looking to enjoy holiday performances, visit Santa, or shop for unique gifts, the Mall of America offers some of Minnesota’s best holiday festivals and events for families with kids.
Here are 6 magical holiday things to do at the Mall of America in 2024 with kids.
- Meet Santa and see the elves at the Candy Cane Institute
- Walk through the Festival of Trees
- Walk around to see the holiday decorations and storefronts
- Check the calendar for festive Holiday Events for all ages
- Listen to festive (and live!) holiday music together
- Enjoy holiday decor and activities at Nickelodeon Universe and Crayola Experience
See a Holiday Performance Together
Dates vary; check individual websites for schedule + ticket availability.
I think seeing a theatrical performance or going to a winter concert is one of the most magical holiday things to do with kids in Minnesota! And, we have so many great productions to choose from this year. For ages, except for a few recent years, it’s been our family tradition to see a holiday show in December. I hope you join us in this tradition this year!
We love catching a family-friendly holiday show in Minneapolis or Saint Paul, where the season’s magic comes to life on stage. Whether it’s a classic production like The Nutcracker or a holiday orchestra concert, there’s something special about the excitement of live theater that adds to the festive atmosphere.
If you’re looking for fun holiday activities near Minneapolis and Saint Paul, here are 7 family-friendly performances happening in 2024.
- How the Grinch Stole Christmas at the Children’s Theatre Company in Minneapolis – November 5 – January 5, 2025
- A Christmas Carol at Guthrie Theater in Minneapolis (One of the best holiday productions in the state – we’ve seen it three times!) – November 9 – December 29
- Irving Berlin’s White Christmas the Musical at the Chanhassen Dinner Theatre in Chanhassen – October 4 – January 25, 2025
- Nutcracker at The Fitzgerald Theater in Saint Paul – December 9 only
- Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet at Orpheum Theatre in Minneapolis – one weekend only, December 6 – 7
- Elf in Concert with the Minnesota Orchestra – one weekend only, Friday, December 20 – Sunday, December 22
- Black Nativity at Penumbra Theater in Saint Paul – December 5 – 24
Bake Holiday or Winter Cookies
Baking holiday cookies is one of our favorite holiday activities at home in Minnesota. It’s the perfect way to spend time together as a family, especially when it’s cold outside. My daughter loves picking out the cookie cutters, mixing the dough, and, of course, decorating with colorful sprinkles and frosting.
Whether we’re baking ginger snaps or sugar cookies, the kitchen fills with the warm scents of holiday spices, and it just feels like Christmas. Plus, it’s an easy way to get into the holiday spirit without leaving home. It’s a fun tradition we look forward to every year. And, of course, sharing our delicious creations with neighbors and friends is always a highlight. If you’re looking for a cozy holiday activity with kids, baking cookies should definitely be on your Minnesota holiday bucket list!
Here are some holiday cookie recipes that I love. I hope you add them to your Minnesota holiday baking bucket list with kids.
- Hot Chocolate Cookies
- Vanilla Chai Pinwheel Cookies
- Dipped Gingersnaps
- The Best Sugar Cookie Recipe Ever
- No Bake Peppermint Cheesecakes
- Cardamom Spiced Cookie Bars with Eggnog Cream Cheese Frosting
Take a Winter, Holiday Event-Inspired Day Trip
A holiday-inspired day trip in Minnesota is the perfect way to embrace the season and explore a new town (or an old favorite!). Charming small towns like Stillwater and Red Wing offer so much to explore, just a short drive from Minneapolis. We love stopping by festive local markets, enjoying hot cocoa at cozy cafes, and even taking in a small-town holiday light display.
Whether it’s picking out the perfect gift from a local shop or discovering a quirky holiday event, there’s no shortage of festive fun and things to do across Minnesota in December. If you’re looking for unique holiday things to do with kids, a Minnesota day trip is a great way to soak in festive vibes and check off items on your holiday bucket list!
Here are 7 holiday day trip ideas inspired by local events!
Magical Winter Day Trips within 30 Minutes of Minneapolis:
- Stillwater – Candy Town Weekend is December 13 – 14
- Hudson, WI – the city hosts all kinds of holiday events in December
- Hastings – the Holiday Hoopla & Small Business Saturday is November 30
Magical Winter Day Trips within 90 minutes of Minneapolis:
- Chisago Lakes (Lindström, Taylors Falls) – the area hosts all kinds of holiday events in December
- Red Wing – Red Wing Holiday Stroll is November 29
- Northfield – Winter Walk is December 12
- Chippewa Falls, WI – Irvine Park Christmas Village, happening from Thanksgiving to the New Year
Looking for more ideas? Read this next: 10 Outstanding Winter Day Trips near Minneapolis with Kids (all within about 90 minutes)
Enjoy a Cozy Cabin Getaway
A cozy cabin weekend is the perfect way to unwind and embrace the holiday season in Minnesota. These charming retreats, tucked away in the wintery landscape, offer a peaceful escape from the holiday hustle.
Spend your days exploring trails and local towns, then head back to your cabin to warm up by the fireplace. Evenings are perfect for family board games, baking holiday cookies, or sipping hot cocoa while (hopefully!) watching the snow fall outside. Whether you choose a lakeside cabin or a quiet woodland hideaway, a winter cabin getaway is the ultimate way to relax, reconnect, and make memories with your family this holiday season.
Here are a few of my favorite holiday bucket list stays in Minnesota for families.
- Sweet Briar Ridge in Pine City – use code ANTONIA10 for 10% off (good through 12/31/2024)
- Norfee Cottage on the Gunflint Trail in Grand Marais
- Kodiak Cabin in Comstock, WI
- Thomsonite Inn in Grand Marais
- Bluefin Bay on Lake Superior in Tofte
Explore a Nature Center
Nature centers are a fantastic way to experience the holiday season in Minnesota with kids. Many offer festive programs, wintery nature walks, and hands-on activities that make for a fun-filled day out.
Explore winter trails, visit birdwatching stations, and enjoy cozy indoor exhibits where kids can learn about winter wildlife. Add a fun twist to the day by planning a winter treasure hunt! Nature centers across the Twin Cities provide an excellent opportunity for families to enjoy the outdoors and connect with nature during the season. Taking a winter-inspired hike is one of my favorite outdoor holiday things to do with kids in Minnesota.
Here are some of our favorite nature centers in the Twin Cities for families.
- Wood Lake Nature Center in Richfield (a personal favorite)
- Richardson Nature Center in Bloomington
- Tamarack Nature Center in White Bear Lake
- Dodge Nature Center in West St. Paul
READ NEXT: How to Dress Kids for a Minnesota Winter (by a Mom Who Knows!)
Go on a Little Holiday Coffee Date
A family coffee date is a cozy way to enjoy the festive season in Minnesota. Head to a local café, where you can sip on a warm holiday-inspired drink, like a spiced latte or peppermint mocha. Many coffee shops in the Twin Cities even feature seasonal specials, perfect for celebrating the holidays.
With a crisp winter breeze outside and a comfy spot inside, it’s the ideal setting for a relaxed family outing. Whether you’re catching up over hot cocoa or enjoying some sweet holiday treats, a family coffee date is a wonderful way to slow down and focus on what matters most this holiday season—each other!
Add family coffee dates to your list of fun indoor things to do in Minnesota this December. Here are a few of our favorite local coffee shops.
- Wesley Andrews Coffee & Tea in Minneapolis
- Edina Coffee Roasters in Edina
- Sovereign Grounds in Minneapolis (they have a play area for littles)
- Rustica Bakery & Cafe, with locations in Minneapolis and Edina
- Cafe Ceres in Minneapolis
- Rebe’s Play Cafe in Saint Paul (they have a play area for littles)
- Kruse Markit Bistro in Minneapolis
- Backstory Coffee Roasters in Minneapolis, Saint Paul, and Bloomington
Have Fun Exploring Minnesota this Holiday Season with Your Kids!
As the holiday season approaches, the Twin Cities and greater Minnesota offer an abundance of holiday festivals and events for families with kids of all ages. From the best holiday things to do with kids in the Twin Cities, like magical light displays and seasonal performances, to exploring winter trails and baking seasonal treats, there’s something for every family on this Minnesota holiday bucket list. And (if you celebrate), don’t forget about the must-do Christmas events and things to do with kids in Minneapolis and Saint Paul, like visits with Santa at Candy Cane Lane and cutting down your own tree. This season, create lasting memories with your favorite people as you celebrate the joy and wonder of the holidays in Minnesota. From my family to yours, happy holidays! May the new year bring you endless joy and adventure!
Unless otherwise noted, all images in this article were taken by and belong to the blog’s author, Antonia Grant. This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my Disclaimer & Disclosure Policy for more information.