Create your holiday schedule in Mankato! Our guide features all the top festive events and activities. Whether you're a familiar face in Mankato or seeing it fresh, our guide is your key to holiday cheer.
Popular events this season include the enchanting Kiwanis Holiday Lights, where twinkling displays illuminate Sibley Park, creating a magical atmosphere for visitors of all ages. You can also explore the unique European Christmas Market, featuring local artisans, delicious treats, and an array of holiday gifts. And the GLOW Holiday Festival is something you definitely don't want to miss, with its stunning light displays and family-friendly activities throughout the city. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
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Top Holiday Events In and Around Mankato
- Kiwanis Holiday Lights
- European Christmas Market (St. Paul)
- Bentleyville Tour of Lights (Duluth)
- GLOW Holiday Festival (St. Paul)
- Magic of Lights (Eagan)
- Sever's Holiday Lights (Shakopee)
- North Pole Express (Minneapolis)
- Holiday Traditions Market (St. Paul)
- Miracle at Big Rock (Big Rock Creek)
- Bells on Belgrade (North Mankato)
See these and even more events listed below!
Mankato Holiday Light Displays
Kiwanis Holiday Lights
What to Expect:
100% volunteer-operated holiday light display with significant community involvement.
Description:
Kiwanis Holiday Lights is a free, volunteer-produced event featuring elaborate holiday light displays at Sibley Park in Mankato, MN. The event includes various activities like visiting Santa, live reindeer, and enjoying concessions. It also supports local non-profit groups through donations.
Where: Mankato | More Info: Kiwanis Holiday Lights
GLOW Holiday Festival
What to Expect:
Unique holiday light display with zip line and local vendor shopping.
Description:
GLOW Holiday Festival at CHS Field in St. Paul, MN, features over a million lights, new exhibits, a zip line, and unique shopping experiences. It also supports local charities with donations.
Where: St. Paul | More Info: GLOW Holiday Festival
Magic of Lights
What to Expect:
Spectacular drive-through holiday light displays with iconic characters.
Description:
Magic of Lights is a drive-through holiday lights experience featuring over two million sparkling lights, including larger-than-life displays of Holiday Barbie, Bigfoot Monster Truck, and life-sized dinosaurs in Prehistoric Christmas.
Where: Eagan | More Info: Magic of Lights
Bentleyville Tour of Lights
What to Expect:
Free walk-through Christmas lighting display with festive activities.
Description:
Bentleyville Tour of Lights is a free walk-through Christmas lighting display featuring over 5 million lights, festive fire pits, and holiday activities like meeting Santa and enjoying free treats.
Where: Duluth | More Info: Bentleyville Tour of Lights
Sever's Holiday Lights
What to Expect:
Over 2.5 million lights in a synchronized holiday light show.
Description:
A massive 2.5 million light display synchronized to holiday music, featuring festive food and drink vendors, and accessible for all ages.
Where: Shakopee | More Info: Sever's Holiday Lights
Miracle at Big Rock
What to Expect:
Extensive Christmas light display with various activities.
Description:
Miracle at Big Rock is a festive holiday event featuring over 17 million Christmas lights, local artisans, food trucks, sledding, and visits with Santa. Enjoy a walk-through or drive-through experience with unique themes and special vignettes.
Where: Big Rock Creek | More Info: Miracle at Big Rock
Holiday Tree Lighting
What to Expect:
Holiday tree lighting with community activities.
Description:
The 50th & France Business Association Holiday Tree Lighting is a festive event featuring holiday-themed activities, including special events at local businesses and holiday-themed events for kids, families, and adults. The main event is the Holiday Tree Lighting.
Where: Edina | More Info: Holiday Tree Lighting
Anoka Tree Lighting Celebration
What to Expect:
Community tree lighting with festive activities and holiday spirit.
Description:
Join the Anoka Tree Lighting Celebration in historic downtown Anoka, featuring free horse-drawn trolley rides, holiday music, and bonfires. Enjoy dinner at local restaurants and holiday shopping at unique shops. Bring the kids to see Santa and Mrs. Claus in the Santa Shack.
Where: Anoka | More Info: Anoka Tree Lighting Celebration
Winter Wonderland
What to Expect:
Extensive collection of synchronized light and music displays.
Description:
Explore over 125 holiday light displays across Minnesota and western Wisconsin, featuring drive-through and walk-through shows, including the renowned Sams Christmas Village Light Tour with over 12 million lights.
Where: Coon Rapids | More Info: Winter Wonderland
Mankato Holiday Markets and Shopping
European Christmas Market
What to Expect:
Authentic traditional holiday market with European crafts and delicacies.
Description:
The European Christmas Market in St. Paul offers a unique shopping experience with over 70 vendors, live entertainment, and European-style food. Visitors can enjoy handmade crafts, Glühwein, and festive performances.
Where: St. Paul | More Info: European Christmas Market
Holiday Traditions Market
What to Expect:
Authentic European-style holiday market with live entertainment and festive activities.
Description:
The European Christmas Market in St. Paul offers a unique shopping experience with over 70 vendors, live entertainment, and festive activities like the Holiday Train and Carousel. Visitors can enjoy European-style food, kids' craft activities, and festive performances.
Where: St. Paul | More Info: Holiday Traditions Market
Mankato Holiday Shows and Entertainment
North Pole Express
What to Expect:
Historic steam and diesel locomotives with Santa visit.
Description:
Join Friends 261 for a nostalgic holiday journey aboard the North Pole Express, featuring historic steam and diesel locomotives. Enjoy a short train ride to the North Pole, where Santa greets passengers and collects letters. The event includes vintage railcars, carhost service, and holiday treats. Dress warmly and explore the St. Paul Union Depot, which offers additional holiday activities and treats.
Where: Minneapolis | More Info: North Pole Express
Holiday Express
What to Expect:
Historic steam and diesel train ride with Santa Claus visits.
Description:
Join Friends 261 for their annual North Pole Express, a holiday tradition featuring historic steam and diesel trains, live entertainment, and visits from Santa Claus. Enjoy a short train ride to the North Pole, where children can write letters to Santa and receive a special gift. The event includes vintage railcars, holiday treats, and festive activities at St. Paul Union Depot.
Where: St. Paul | More Info: Holiday Express
Mankato Other Holiday Activities
Bells on Belgrade
What to Expect:
Family-friendly holiday celebration with trolley rides and crafts.
Description:
Bells on Belgrade is a free holiday event in Lower North Mankato featuring trolley rides, a medallion hunt, carolers, make-and-take crafts, and visits with Santa.
Where: North Mankato | More Info: Bells on Belgrade
Lighting Festival
What to Expect:
Community-driven holiday celebration with diverse activities.
Description:
The Lighting Festival is a festive holiday event featuring various activities, including a Santa parade, face painting, and craft fairs. It offers a range of activities for all ages, from children's exhibits to community gatherings.