8 Best December Family Holiday Activities in MN
Minnesota shines in December. Streets glow, skating rinks open, and holiday magic pops up in every town. From twinkling light shows to Santa visits and snowy park adventures, there’s plenty for families to do together. Use this guide to find the best festive stops, plan your weekend, and make cozy memories all month long.
Explore a Holiday Parade
Experiencing the Holiday Parade offers you and your family a dazzling display of festive lights, charming floats, and live music to kick off your holiday season in Minnesota.
Bring a cup of hot cocoa as you watch the fun holiday lights go by on floats. Each float that passes by has some holiday cheer, with costumed characters sharing waves and smiles.
Many parades end with Santa, a tree lighting, and sometimes fireworks. Check dates and weather updates on the event’s site before you go.
Visit Santa at the Mall of America
After a holiday parade, continue your family’s adventure by visiting Santa at the Mall of America, where the jolly old elf is ready to hear your children’s Christmas wishes.
Nestled within a twinkling North Pole enclave, Santa’s cozy outpost is brimming with holiday cheer. Capture the moment with a photo for a sweet keepsake.
Don’t forget to explore the surrounding holiday displays. Check the Mall of America site for hours, reservation options, and photo package details each season.
Glide at The Depot Ice Rink
Lace up your skates and glide across the ice at The Depot Ice Rink, a historic train shed turned winter wonderland in the heart of Minneapolis.
Feel the crisp air kiss your cheeks as you loop under the grand arched ceilings, surrounded by twinkling lights.
The rink is a magical escape, inviting you to carve out your path on the smooth, glistening surface.
Hours and reservation policies can change season to season, so check The Depot’s current schedule before you go. Skate rentals are available on site most dates.
Another great outdoor option is Centennial Lakes in Edina. For more picks, check out: The Best Ice Skating in Minneapolis: Winter Fun in Minnesota
Marvel at Bentleyville Tour of Lights
While you stroll through the Bentleyville Tour of Lights, you’ll be enveloped by the glow of millions of twinkling lights, creating a dazzling holiday spectacle for the entire family.
Imagine the crisp winter air and the scent of roasted marshmallows as you wander past captivating displays and towering illuminated figures.
Don’t miss the towering animated tree. Admission is typically free; bring a nonperishable donation if you can. Parking details, dates, and shuttle info vary by year, so check the official site before your visit.
There is more than just Bentleyville to visit. Check out these great light displays around the state: Where to See the BEST Christmas Lights in MN
Enjoy the Holiday Flower Show
Transitioning from the lights of Duluth, head to the Holiday Flower Show at the Como Zoo and Conservatory. The warm glass domes make a cozy escape on a cold day.
Expect fragrant poinsettias and bold winter color. Themes and featured varieties change each year, so check current details and hours before your visit.
Take a Festive Trolley Ride
Hop on a festive trolley ride to continue your holiday adventure.
While most trolley companies pause for winter, you can still ride the Minnesota Streetcar Museum’s Holly Trolley. It typically runs the last weekend of November and the first weekend of December.
Santa is on board. After the ride, toast a marshmallow and warm up by the fire. The 25‑minute trip gives each kid time to say hi to Santa. Check this season’s dates and ticketing before you go.
See The Nutcracker
Don’t miss a classic Nutcracker performance, a holiday tradition on stages across Minnesota.
From touring companies to local ballet schools, you’ll find options in Minneapolis, St. Paul, and Duluth. Check the venue’s calendar for this year’s production, cast, and family matinee times.
Secure your tickets, bundle up the family, and enjoy a night of music and dance.
Go Snowshoeing in State Parks
Minnesota’s state parks offer a perfect winter escape with snowshoeing trails that will have your family crunching through fresh powder in no time.
Experience the quiet woods, broken only by snowshoes tapping a white‑blanketed path.
Try Itasca State Park or Gooseberry Falls. Many parks offer rentals; check conditions and groomed trail updates before you head out.
Conclusion
Wrap up your December with unforgettable holiday cheer across Minnesota.
Bask in Bentleyville’s glow, whirl across The Depot’s ice, and enjoy a Nutcracker performance.
Whether you’re meeting Santa or crunching through snowy trails, these experiences will weave magical memories for your family.
Embrace the season’s sparkle and start traditions that keep your hearts warm all winter.
