As we leave Halloween and the colorful tapestry of the fall season behind, it is soon time for snow and the holiday season. The transition from the vibrant colors of autumn to cold and snowy winter brings out new things to do. For me winter means skiing season but other than that I enjoy celebrating the holidays in the warmth of my house. This coming winter there are lots of events around Minneapolis that are available, many of them even free to the general public. Whether you want to be outside in the snow, to ice skate or go skiing, or if you want to look at holiday lights, Minneapolis has a range of options for all ages and all interests.
In Saint Paul, the annual European Christmas Market is being held and having its 10th anniversary! It is on the weekends during November 24th and is being held until December 17th. Located on Union Depot (240 E Kellogg Blvd St. Paul) there are live performances, vendors, and a Santa’s Village. Free to the general public, people are welcome to walk around and explore over 70 vendors, taking in the theme of Christkindl Markets, which started in the countries of Germany and Australia. The vendors range from food vendors to gifts and trinkets that you can buy! The vendors sell handmade gifts and European themed festive foods. The options for food range from Ak’s Homemade Treats, which sell a variety of sweets, to Coco Nola, which is a German bakery with Italian styled food. For gifts they have homemade toys from places like DoodleTown Toys who makes wooden toys made in a solar powered workshop from sustainable forests, to Mud and Bark which is owned by a father and daughter who create wood and ceramic pieces together! In terms of entertainment, there is a schedule on their website for upcoming performers, some of which include, St. Paul Czech, Slovak Folk Dancers, and Highland Park Senior Choirs.
Another seasonal event is held on Thursday, November 30th and Friday December 1st, from 10am-7pm and Saturday, December 2nd from 10am-5pm is the Landmark Center in Saint Paul. They will be hostng their 45th annual Old-Fashioned Holiday Bazaar. With an admission fee of $5, anyone can go through over 60 vendors and its the perfect placeto do some holiday shopping. From a range of jewelry to woodwork there are many options for gifts or shopping for yourself. The Bazaar is held indoors and there is food and festive music to create that magical holiday feeling.
This season the Night Trains return and are being held by the Model Railroad Museum. The Night Trains run from October to February and are model trains all scaled differently. Come watch the intricate scenes come alive in various holiday layouts! Each train is different in terms of color, shape and lighting. The Night Trains are held every Saturday from October 21st to February 24th from 3pm to 7pm (excluding Christmas Eve) and tickets are $15 per person with two hour admission.
In addition to these, there’s the enchanting Holiday Experience at the American Swedish Institute and the classic “A Christmas Carol” at Guthrie Theater, both starting on November 11th. Lastly, there is a Gingerbread Wonderland at the Norway House, beginning on November 24th, which offers a unique festive experience. Whether its for shopping or the experience, there are various fun and unique ways to celebrate the holiday season. With finals season around the corner, taking a holiday escape around Minneapolis and Saint Paul is a great way to still be able to enjoy the winter season while it lasts!
