15+ Unforgettable December Events and Activities for Families in the Twin Cities: Holiday Events, Indoor Fun, And More!
December in the Twin Cities and throughout Minnesota offers endless events and fun for the whole family, from festive holiday events to cozy indoor activities perfect for the chilly days ahead. Whether you’re looking to dive into the holiday spirit with twinkling light displays, Santa visits, and seasonal shows, or you want to escape the cold with some of the best indoor activities near Minneapolis and Saint Paul for kids, this list has you covered.
We’ve rounded up the best holiday events in the Twin Cities in 2025 with kids in mind, plus some non-holiday options to keep everyone entertained throughout the month. So bundle up or stay inside—there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this list of December things to do in the Twin Cities with kids!
Visit a Holiday Market, Various Locations
Holiday markets are a must-do on any list of December things to do in the Twin Cities with kids! These festive, European-style markets are filled with local vendors offering unique gifts, handcrafted ornaments, and delicious seasonal treats.
Stroll through the twinkling stalls, soak up the holiday atmosphere, and munch on delicious goodies from around the world (like raclette and pierogies!). Many markets also have kid-friendly activities like cookie decorating, live music, and visits from Santa. Suppose you’re looking for the best holiday things to do with kids in Minnesota. In that case, these holiday markets are a magical, family-friendly experience that’s hard to beat!
Here are 5 magical Holiday Markets in the Twin Cities to explore with your kids:
- Minneapolis Christkindl Market, Minneapolis
- European Christmas Market at the Union Depot in Saint Paul
- Excelsior Christkindlsmarkt, Excelsior
- Christkindlmarkt in Waconia
- The Dayton’s Holiday Market, Minneapolis
The Dayton’s Elves Display in St Paul, MN
Address: 1887 Saunders Avenue, Saint Paul, MN 55116
Families who remember the magical Dayton’s 8th Floor Holiday Shows will love this festive throwback in Saint Paul. Original refurbished animated characters from the classic displays are back for the season—now showcased across eight charming storefront windows with more than 35 characters and over 40 moving animations. The display is open nightly from 5–9 PM, now through Christmas, making it a perfect after-dinner outing or holiday tradition to share with your kids.
And don’t miss the bonus challenge: little ones can search for the silly hidden mice tucked into each scene for an extra dose of whimsy and fun. It’s all free and a short visit (typically 15 minutes or so) – perfect for parents with little ones.
Holiday Experience at the American Swedish Institute, Minneapolis
The Holiday Experience, Tomte: The Gnome, The Myth, The Legend, at the American Swedish Institute is one of the most unique holiday events in the Twin Cities in 2025 with kids.
Step inside the historic Turnblad Mansion, a stunning 1908 landmark with 33 rooms beautifully decorated to showcase Nordic holiday traditions. Kids will love learning about Scandinavian folklore, like the mischievous tomte (gnomes), making this visit both educational and entertaining.
Time it right and shop for unique handmade gifts at the Julmarknad Handcraft Market (December 7 and 8). As you browse the market, savor tasty Scandinavian treats together. With festive crafts, pop-up performances, and bites from the Jul Shop, this event combines holiday magic and history in a single visit! It’s one of Minneapolis’s best holiday things to do with kids, offering a memorable family outing filled with seasonal cheer and charming finds.
Related Article: ASI Holiday Exhibition—Tomte: The Gnome, The Myth, The Legend
Make Your Own Hot Cocoa Bar
Create a cozy DIY hot cocoa bar at home for a fun, family-friendly activity this holiday season! Set up a station with all the essentials: steaming hot cocoa, whipped cream, and an array of toppings like marshmallows, candy canes, chocolate chips, and sprinkles.
Let kids get creative with their cocoa masterpieces—add a drizzle of caramel or a dash of nutmeg for an extra festive touch. You can even include fun mix-ins like flavored syrups or cookie stirrers. It’s an easy and interactive way to keep everyone warm and happy, making it a perfect addition to any December gathering with kids.
Take it a step further by adding a family game night, enjoying a holiday movie, or inviting friends over to enjoy your delicious creations!
Read on to explore more December Events in the Twin Cities!
North Pole Express at Union Depot, Saint Paul
All aboard the North Pole Express at Union Depot in Saint Paul for one of the most magical December things to do with kids in the Twin Cities! Take a festive train ride to the North Pole on the first two weekends of December (December 5-7 & 11-14, 2025). You’ll meet Santa, his elves, and some entertaining holiday characters along the way.
The journey features beautiful historic locomotives. Write a letter to Santa during your trip and enjoy the winter views. When you reach the North Pole, Santa will board the train to greet everyone as you return to Union Depot for holiday treats and fun activities. It’s a heartwarming family tradition that will make this season extra special!
See a Holiday Performance, Various Locations
Catch a holiday show with the family for a magical experience in the Twin Cities this season! Kids will love the dazzling costumes, lively music, and festive storytelling. Holiday performances are a great way to get the whole family into the holiday spirit while enjoying one of the best December things to do in the Twin Cities with kids. Grab your tickets early, and make it a memorable outing with hot cocoa and treats after the show!
If you’re looking for fun holiday things to do with kids in Minneapolis and Saint Paul, there are several shows to choose from. From classic productions like The Nutcracker and A Christmas Carol to kid-friendly performances like How the Grinch Stole Christmas, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Here are family-friendly holiday performances happening in the Twin Cities in 2025:
- How the Grinch Stole Christmas at the Children’s Theatre Company
- Rollicking! A Winter Carnival Musical at the History Theatre
- A Christmas Carol at Guthrie Theater
- Spookley and the Christmas Kittens at Stages Theatre Co
- Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet at Orpheum Theatre
- Cirque Dreams Holidaze at Ames Center
- Nutcracker at The Fitzgerald Theater
- Elf The Musical JR. at Stages Theatre Co
- Winter Showcase with the students of Minnesota Dance Theatre
- The Snow Queen by Ballet Co. Laboratory
- Christmas with Lorie Line at Delano Performing Arts Center
- Disney’s The Muppet Christmas Carol in Concert with the Minnesota Orchestra
- Irving Berlin’s White Christmas the Musical at the Chanhassen Dinner Theatre
Mess Hall Art Experiences, Minneapolis & Hopkins
Looking for one of the best kid-friendly indoor activities in/near Minneapolis this December? Check out Mess Hall Art Experiences (locations in Hopkins). Here, embracing the mess is the whole point!
This creative space specializes in art projects you might not want to attempt at home—think splattering, pouring, smearing, and finger painting. Kids can dive into abstract art with a no-rules approach, making vibrant masterpieces without any pressure to stay inside the lines. Mess Hall has options for every budding artist, from birthday parties and neon paint nights to monthly classes. It’s the perfect spot for kids to get messy, get creative, and have a blast! For current class offerings, visit their website.
Related Article: Holiday Train to Entertain Families throughout Minnesota
See a Magical Holiday Light Display, Various Locations
Experience the season’s magic by visiting one of the Twin Cities’ many spectacular holiday light displays! From drive-through experiences like the beloved Sever’s Holiday Lights to walk-through options like the GLOW Holiday Festival, there is no shortage of twinkling lights to explore.
Kids will be mesmerized by the colorful displays, synchronized music, and festive decorations. Checking out a local holiday light display is undoubtedly one of the best holiday things to do with kids in Minnesota! Each offers a memorable way to soak up the holiday spirit and connect as a family. Bundle up, grab some hot cocoa, and enjoy a night of sparkling fun!
Here are holiday light displays within 60 minutes of Minneapolis:
- GLOW Holiday Festival, Saint Paul
- Minnesota Landscape Arboretum Winter Lights, Chaska
- Magic Lights Viking Lakes, Eagan
- Sever’s Holiday Lights, Shakopee
- Miracle at Big Rock, St. Croix Falls, WI
- Sam’s Christmas Village & Light Tour, Somerset, WI
Here are 2 more holiday light displays worth taking a short road trip for (both are FREE):
- Kiwanis Holiday Lights, Mankato
- Bentleyville “Tour of Lights”, Duluth
Related Article: Ultimate Guide to Must See Holiday Lights in Minnesota
Indoor Mini Golf at the Puttshack, Edina
Looking for unique indoor activities near Minneapolis for kids? Puttshack Indoor Mini Golf in Edina & Minneapolis (North Loop) offers a high-tech twist on traditional mini golf, creating an interactive experience perfect for families.
Using patented technology, Puttshack automatically tracks each player’s score, so there’s no need for those pesky scorecards or pencils. The four unique courses have vibrant designs and futuristic elements like glowing obstacles, dynamic lighting, and interactive trivia questions. It’s a fresh take on mini golf that adds excitement for all ages.
Whether you’re celebrating a birthday (they have weekend party packages) or just looking for a fun outing, Puttshack delivers a memorable experience with your kids asking, “Can we go back again?“
Challenging the whole family to a little friendly competition at Puttshack is undoubtedly one of the top things to do with kids in the Twin Cities this December!
Night Trains at the Twin Cities Model Railroad Museum, Saint Paul
Night Trains at the Twin Cities Model Railroad Museum is a must-visit for families looking for the best holiday events in the Twin Cities in 2025 with kids. From November through February, this magical tradition brings the museum’s model trains to life with dimmed lights, creating a cozy winter scene. Mark your calendar for special nights in December—Santa will make an appearance for photos and wish lists!
Watch as vintage passenger trains glide through Matlin’s snowy, miniature town adorned with twinkling Christmas lights. Enjoy bonus Night Trains events on select Mondays and Fridays around Christmas, making it a perfect outing for train enthusiasts and holiday lovers alike.
Keep reading to to explore more December Events in the Twin Cities!
Gingerbread Wonderland at Norway House, Minneapolis
One of the best indoor activities for kids in Minneapolis this December is visiting the Gingerbread Wonderland at Norway House. Inspired by Norway’s “Pepperkakebyen,“ this community-curated gingerbread village has become a favorite family tradition for many Minnesotans.
Kids will love spotting reimagined Twin Cities landmarks in gingerbread, from U.S. Bank Stadium to the charming Wild Rumpus Books. The creativity and detail in each display make it a magical stop for families. Afterward, treat everyone to a holiday snack at Ingebretsen’s coffee shop.
Have a Holiday Tea Party at The Mad Hatter House of Curiosities and Tea Parlour, Anoka
Gather your family for a truly magical experience and head to The Mad Hatter House of Curiosities and Tea Parlour in Anoka. Known for its whimsical charm, this historic spot offers a festive twist on the traditional tea party each December. Throughout the month, you can select from their traditional tea time options or the Christmas Tea experience (reservations are strongly recommended).
The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with a touch of playful elegance, making it one of the best December and holiday things to do with kids in Minnesota!
Kids and adults alike will enjoy the tea service. During your tea time, enjoy an enchanting preset menu alongside endless tea. Don’t fear picky eaters here! A special children’s tea includes child-friendly treats like scones, fruit, finger sandwiches, and a sweet treat, all served alongside a teapot of raspberry lemonade.
Bake Winter or Holiday Cookies Together
Baking winter-themed or holiday cookies together is a simple yet unique way to create lasting memories with your kids this December. Whether rolling out the dough for sugar cookies or decorating gingerbread men, the kitchen becomes a fun, festive gathering place for all ages.
Let the little ones help with measuring, mixing, and, of course, frosting and sprinkles! You can even make it a themed event by baking cookies shaped like snowflakes, stars, or Christmas trees. It’s not just about the end result—it’s about the laughter and joy of creating something delicious as a family. The smell of freshly baked cookies filling the house is magic!
Read on to explore more December Events in the Twin Cities!
Decorate the House with Paper Snowflakes
Need an at-home idea when searching for the best December things to do with kids? Decorate the house with paper snowflakes! It’s a fun and easy way to bring the winter magic indoors. Grab some paper and scissors, and get creative!
Whether you’re folding and cutting simple designs or challenging the kids with intricate patterns, everyone can join in on the fun. Hang your paper snowflakes on windows and walls, or even turn them into a garland to hang across the mantel. It is a great way to spend time together and adds a cozy, wintery touch to your home. Plus, each snowflake is unique, just like each family member!
Go for a Wintery Hike at a Minnesota State Park, Various Locations
Early winter in Minnesota is the perfect time to embark on an outdoor adventure to a nearby Minnesota State Park with your kids. No heat. No bugs. What could be better when looking for the best December things to do near the Twin Cities with your kids?
State parks across Minnesota are primed for snowy hikes, bird watching, and more in December. While the return of cooler weather might initially seem intimidating, once you have the kids bundled up and your hot cocoa in hand, you’ll be ready to hit the trails in no time!
From the winter waterfall and wooden playground at Nerstrand Big Woods State Park to the easy paved paths at Wild River State Park, there’s no shortage of scenic spots to enjoy the winter outdoors with your family. Plus, many parks offer warming houses to help you warm up after a hike. And, snow pending, almost all of them provide excellent snowshoeing or cross-country skiing trails, too!
Looking for Minnesota State Park recommendations near the Twin Cities? Please read about our top picks for the 7 Best Minnesota State Parks for Families this Winter (all within 90 minutes of Minneapolis)!
Have Fun Exploring these December Events & Things to Do in the Twin Cities with Your Kids!
The Twin Cities offer a variety of exciting things to do with kids this December! From cozy indoor activities in Minneapolis and Saint Paul to the best holiday events with kids across the Twin Cities, there’s something for everyone—whether you’re exploring festive markets, attending a holiday performance, or enjoying a winter hike. These experiences will undoubtedly help you create unforgettable moments and memories with your family. Have fun exploring the many fun December and holiday things to do with kids in Minnesota!
Antonia Grant is a Minnesota mom + freelance writer who loves encouraging parents to find ways to connect and make memories with their kids. She’s a firm believer in providing children with experiences over things. You can find more from Antonia and her family adventures on Instagram @knead.to.roam and on her website. She shares all things family travel, outdoor adventures, and their favorite foodie finds.
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