There’s so much to do in Minneapolis in December. From holiday lights to food-filled parties, there are a million fun events happening around the city. You can stay busy all winter long with a variety of events, whether you celebrate the holidays or not. If you’re a couple or part of a family, or even if you enjoy going to things on your own, there is an endless list of events to attend. Here’s what you need to know.

Attend the Best of Minnesota Party

The Best of Minnesota Party brings together the people and food of Minnesota in one fun location. Enjoy all the best food from the most celebrated restaurants in the state. Listen to live music, see interesting exhibits, and enjoy games of chance. You’ll also have an opportunity to savor craft beers, cocktails and wine.

• Date: December 4th, 2019 from 6PM-9PM
• Location: Aria, 105 N 1st St, Minneapolis

See the Winter Solstice Celebration

The Winter Solstice Celebration at the American Swedish Institute is the celebration of the shortest day and longest night of the year. Visitors to the American Swedish Institute will enjoy Swedish mulled wine, an extra special menu and of course, entertaining performances.

• Date: December 20th, 2019 from 6PM-10PM
• Location: American Swedish Institute, 2600 Park Ave, Minneapolis

Visit the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum

This year, the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum in Chaska will feature a dazzling display of winter lights to illuminate the long winter darkness. Nothing is more magical than Christmas lights in a stunning arrangement, and of course the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum accomplishes this very well. You’ll enjoy hot cocoa, s’mores toasted over a bonfire, and 25-foot decorated poinsettia trees.

• Date: November 22 – January 5 from 5PM-9PM
• Location: Minnesota Landscape Arboretum, 3675 Arboretum Dr., Chaska

Have Fun at Holidazzle

Holidazzle continues to dazzle and amaze people of all ages year after year. Sometimes called the “premier” holiday celebration of the Minneapolis area, this event is free for everyone who wishes to attend. Bring your family to see the lights, enjoy the food, and have delicious drinks.

With a skating rink open daily, everyone can come to enjoy themselves in a safe and wholesome environment. Check out the schedule to find out when the firework displays and movie nights are featured. You’ll also be able to see Santa Claus.

• Date: Thursdays-Sundays, November 29th-December 22nd, 2019; Thursdays from 5PM-9PM, Fridays from 5PM–10PM, Saturdays from 11AM–10PM, Sundays from 11AM–7PM
• Location: Loring Park, 1382 Willow St, Minneapolis

See the Gingerbread Wonderland

The Gingerbread Wonderland is a holiday tradition at the Norway House. Everyone from families to local bakers are encouraged to bake their own gingerbread house to put on display. Once the entries have been made, visitors to the Norway House are able to go see the different gingerbread houses in a wondrous exhibit.

• Date: Saturday, November 23, 2019 – Sunday, January 5, 2020; 10AM-4PM Tuesday-Sunday
• Location: Norway House, 913 East Franklin Avenue, Minneapolis

No matter what event you decide to attend, there are a million opportunities to have fun in Minneapolis this December. Take out your family, go with friends, or have fun on a solo trip. If you’ve recently moved to the area, this is an excellent introduction to how wonderful life in Minneapolis can be.