Ultimate Guide to the Best Christmas Lights in Minnesota [Updated for 2024]
Ok, I know what you are thinking, “It’s not even Thanksgiving yet and I’m already talking about Christmas Lights!” Well, in my neighborhood, that has stopped no one yet from putting out their lights. A lot of cities would agree based on the number of displays of Christmas lights in MN going up around town.
Because of that, I wanted to ensure you had plenty of opportunities to plan your fun. This year everyone has found socially distant ways to enjoy Christmas Lights in MN, including drive-thru experiences.
Here is your guide to all the Winter Wonderlands, Tree Lighting Celebrations Festivals, and Parades.
Top Christmas Light Displays in Minnesota
Minnesota’s Christmas light displays are pure magic. From drive-through wonders to walkable festive trails, each location has its unique charm that transforms any evening into a holiday memory. Here are the top spots you can’t miss this season.
Sever’s Holiday Lights | Shakopee
Sever’s Holiday Lights in Shakopee is a family favorite for a reason. This drive-through masterpiece boasts over 2.5 million lights, synchronized perfectly to cheerful holiday tunes. It’s located at 3121 150th Street West in Shakopee, and you can enjoy it from mid-November through December.
- Tickets: Starting at $30 per car (up to seven people).
- Why You’ll Love It: With colorful light tunnels and whimsical animated displays, it’s easy to relax and watch magic unfold from your car.
- Pro Tip: Reserve your time online to avoid waiting in line. If you visit on Tuesdays, you can save tons of money!
For more details, explore Everything You Need to Know About Sever’s Holiday Lights.
GLOW Holiday Festival | St. Paul
GLOW Holiday Festival turns CHS Field in St. Paul into an illuminated wonderland. This walk-through event offers photo-worthy moments with its Flower Garden, Enchanted Forest, and twinkling Northern Lights displays.
- Location: 360 N. Broadway Street, St. Paul
- Dates: November 21 – January 5, 2025
- Tickets: Adults $21.75, kids (4-12) $12.75
- Highlights: Aside from dazzling lights, enjoy festive food vendors and kid-friendly activities!
Want a full review? Read 12 Reasons Why You Should Attend Glow.
Bentleyville Tour of Lights | Duluth
Dubbed “America’s Largest Free Walk-Through Light Display,” Bentleyville in Duluth is next-level festive. Located near Lake Superior’s shores, it covers 20 acres of glowing brilliance.
- Admission: Free! Just pay $10 for parking.
- Dates: November 23 – December 28, 2024
- Must-See: The iconic 128-foot Christmas tree and warming stations offering free hot chocolate and cookies.
Check out more at The Best Christmas Lights in Duluth, MN.
Duluth MN is a great place to explore for the week. I recommend staying close by at the Pier B Resort. They are family and pet-friendly! You can find the best rates by clicking here.
Winter Lights at the Arboretum | Chaska
The Minnesota Landscape Arboretum transforms into an outdoor holiday haven that’s perfect for family outings. Stroll among interactive, themed light displays, including the 25-foot poinsettia tree made up of over 500 fresh blooms. New this year they’ve added a Winter Woods camp.
- Location: 3675 Arboretum Drive, Chaska
- Dates: November 21 – January 5, 2025
- Tickets: Members $10; non-members $30
Plan your Arboretum visit with Making Spirits Brighter.
Magic of Lights | Eagan
Looking for a cozy drive-through holiday outing? Magic of Lights in Eagan has you covered. These carefully curated displays feature LED-lit holiday icons, animated scenes, and tunnels of light.
- Dates: November 22 – January 5, 2025
- Cost: $25–$35 online, $40 at the gate.
- Special Feature: Download Magic Vision for an interactive, augmented experience.
Learn more at Must-See Magic of Lights.
The Spirit of Winter | Waconia
Located at Sovereign Estates Winery, this winter light show is a perfect mix of elegance and fun. Walk through synchronized lights on 20 acres and sip on wine or hot chocolate. Santa makes as visit and there is plenty to eat and drink while you hang out by the fire.
- Address: 9950 N Shore Rd, Waconia
- Dates: November 22 – December 29, 2024
- Tickets: $10 per person
Don’t forget this helpful guide for insider tips.
Sertoma Winter Wonderland | Baxter
Sertoma Winter Wonderland is all about community spirit. Featuring 80 animated displays, this 45-minute drive-through event benefits local causes.
- Dates: November 28 – December 31, 2024
- Pricing: $15 online or $20 at the gate.
- Event Location: 14250 Conservation Drive, Baxter
Discover more on Holiday Lights in Minneapolis and Nearby.
Special Events and Festivals
Minnesota takes holiday cheer to the next level with an array of festive events and traditions. These celebrations are perfect for families, couples, or anyone looking to soak in the beauty of the season. From twinkling lights to lively community gatherings, there’s something for everyone here.
Holidazzle | Minneapolis
Get ready for one of Minnesota’s most iconic holiday traditions! Holidazzle transforms Nicollet Mall into a winter playground filled with twinkling lights, festive food trucks, and interactive activities. It’s the perfect place to kick off your holiday season.
Expect colorful shows, performances, and unique pop-up shops where you can find one-of-a-kind gifts. The event embraces local flair by highlighting vendors and artisans from the community. Bring the whole family—it’s free to attend and perfect for making magical memories! Learn more at Minneapolis Christmas and Holiday Festivities 2024.
Lighting Festival | Taylors Falls
The Taylors Falls Lighting Festival is a small-town holiday gem that feels straight out of a Hallmark movie. Held during Thanksgiving weekend, it offers parades, live music, and even a touch of Irish dancing. Local businesses get involved, turning the town into a beacon of holiday cheer.
Community is at the heart of this festival. Town members work together to create a welcoming, joyful experience for attendees. Whether it’s the festive holiday contests or the family-friendly activities, you’ll leave with your heart full. It’s one of the things to do during Christmas in Minnesota that you can’t miss.
Holiday Train | Multiple Stops
The Canadian Pacific Holiday Train is like a moving Christmas light display! Running from December 10–16, this magical train stops at over two dozen Minnesota towns, including Minneapolis, St. Paul, and smaller towns like Wabasha and Thief River Falls.
Each stop features live musical performances right from the train itself, creating a vibrant holiday atmosphere. It’s not just about entertainment—it also raises funds and collects food donations to support local food banks.
First City of Lights | Bemidji
Looking for a true winter wonderland? Head to Bemidji, where the First City of Lights festivities dazzle with over half a million lights. The highlight is the animated Paul Bunyan Christmas tree towering at 50 feet!
The event keeps the holiday momentum alive with a parade, live music, and even fireworks. Homes and storefronts join the fun with a Tour of Homes display contest. It’s a must-visit if you’re heading north this holiday season.
Want more ideas? Explore 10 Ways to Celebrate the Holidays in Minnesota.
North Pole at Santa Claus Lane | Excelsior
Excelsior’s North Pole at Santa Claus Lane is more than just lights. This 103-acre experience is your ticket to holiday magic. Visit Santa, enjoy live magic shows, and even walk a llama (yep, you read that right!).
The event also features a vendor market with local boutiques and makers, allowing you to shop while savoring treats from local food and drink vendors. It’s an enchanting escape that combines holiday joy with Minnesota charm.
Practical Tips for Visiting
When you’re planning a day trip to see Minnesota’s best Christmas lights, having the right approach can make your experience truly magical. Whether you’re driving through illuminated displays or walking among dazzling light trails, these tips ensure that your visit is both seamless and unforgettable.
Best Times to Visit
Knowing when to go can make all the difference between a tranquil holiday outing and a crowded hustle.
- Weekdays over Weekends: Most displays are significantly less busy Monday through Thursday. You’ll enjoy shorter lines and fewer crowds.
- Avoid Peak Hours: Typically, displays get jam-packed between 6:30 PM and 8:30 PM. Plan on arriving earlier or later for a smoother visit.
- Key Dates to Avoid: The weekend closest to Christmas is almost always the busiest. If possible, aim for dates earlier in the season.
- Reserve Tickets Early: Many popular destinations, like Winter Lights at the Arboretum in Chaska, require reservations. Book ahead to lock in your preferred time.
What to Bring
Preparation is key to keeping everyone in your group happy, cozy, and full of festive cheer. Don’t leave home without these essentials:
- Warm Clothing: Think layers, hats, gloves, and waterproof boots. The Minnesota weather can shift quickly!
- Blankets: Especially for drive-through displays like Magic of Lights in Eagan, where having a cozy blanket can make the evening feel extra magical.
- Snacks and Drinks: A thermos of hot chocolate and some holiday cookies make for a perfect treat during your outing.
- Tech Helpers: If you’re visiting light shows with synchronized music (like Sleepy Eye’s Holiday Lights in Motion), bring a portable radio or tune in on your car’s FM system.
- Cameras or Smartphones: Many displays, such as Bentleyville in Duluth, have photo-worthy scenes. Your Instagram followers won’t want to miss it!
- Cash for Parking or Donations: While many events are free, parking fees or donations are common. Plan to bring a few dollars in cash.
Beyond Minnesota: Nearby Light Displays
If you’re willing to cross the border for some holiday cheer, Wisconsin offers incredible light displays that feel like hidden gems. Just a short drive from Minnesota, these magical destinations are perfect for a festive day trip worth remembering.
Miracle at Big Rock | St Croix Falls, WI
Located in St. Croix Falls, Miracle at Big Rock stands out as a dazzling light show that showcases over 15 million holiday lights. The expansive property is just a 45-minute drive from the Twin Cities, making it a convenient and enchanting getaway for families or couples.
Visitors can wander through mesmerizing light tunnels and animated displays while sipping hot cocoa. For the adventurous at heart, there’s sledding and wagon rides, adding a touch of winter fun. Miracle at Big Rock also features food trucks and cocktails, creating a festive vibe for every age group.
What makes this display unique? Its blend of simple holiday joy and grand-scale production. Whether you’re strolling the lighted paths or snapping photos at the larger-than-life setups, there’s magic around every corner. To learn more about what makes this place so special, check out Miracle at Big Rock Holiday Lights.
Sam’s Christmas Village | Somerset, WI
If you’re up for another scenic drive, Sam’s Christmas Village in Somerset offers a family-friendly holiday attraction that simply dazzles. With over 10 million lights, this charming venue creates a winter wonderland that comes alive after dark.
Highlights here include:
- Walking and Drive-Through Days: Visitors can opt to enjoy the lights by car or on foot.
- Christmas Market: Featuring European-style vendors, you can shop for artisanal gifts while snacking on warm treats.
- Interactive Fun: Santa appearances, reindeer, and “S’mores Cabins” make this spot perfect for kids and adults alike.
As you explore, don’t miss their lighted tunnels and choreographed light shows. They’ve added more features each year, ensuring there’s always something new to see. For more information on what Sam’s offers, visit Sam’s Christmas Village Details.
Both of these destinations offer a blend of festive excitement and a cozy atmosphere, creating the perfect winter escape just beyond Minnesota’s borders. Whether you’re planning a family outing or a romantic evening, these nearby spots are worth the drive.
Conclusion
Minnesota shines bright during the holiday season with its spectacular Christmas light displays. From drive-through experiences to walkable wonderlands, these glowing attractions are perfect for creating lasting memories with loved ones.
This is the perfect time to start a new tradition or revisit a classic spot. Whether it’s your first tour of dazzling lights or the tenth time seeing Bentleyville, there’s always something magical to discover.
Got your plan? Bundle up, grab some cocoa, and enjoy the best of Minnesota’s holiday charm. For more ideas on seasonal experiences, check out 35 Unforgettable Minnesota Winter Activities. Have a festive day trip filled with joy and sparkle!
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