Last updated: November 22, 2024
Celebrate the best of the holidays in Apple Valley with our ultimate guide. Whether you're rediscovering Apple Valley or visiting for the first time, our guide ensures you experience all the festive fun.
This holiday season, the GLOW Holiday Festival offers a stunning display of lights and artistic installations that illuminate the winter nights, creating a magical atmosphere for all ages. Another highlight is the European Christmas Market, where you can find unique gifts, delicious treats, and traditional crafts that celebrate the spirit of the season. And don't forget the North Pole Express, where families can enjoy a festive train ride filled with holiday cheer. Explore the rest of our guide for more festive activities.
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Apple Valley Holiday Light Displays
GLOW Holiday Festival
- What to Expect
- Extensive light displays set against a beautiful park backdrop
- Description
- This vibrant winter festival transforms the landscape with stunning light displays, art installations, and interactive activities for all ages. Visitors can stroll through paths adorned with bright decorations and enjoy seasonal treats from local vendors, adding to the delightful atmosphere. The festival creates a charming experience that combines community spirit and creativity, making it a highlight of the holiday season.
- Where
- St Paul | More Info : GLOW Holiday Festival
Apple Valley Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony
- What to Expect
- Caroling and festive treats.
- Description
- Join us for the Apple Valley Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony on November 26, 2024, at the Apple Valley Municipal Center. Enjoy caroling and partake of cookies and cider as we kick off the holiday season.
- Where
- Apple Valley | More Info : Apple Valley Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony
Burnsville Winter Lighting Ceremony
- What to Expect
- Unique LED light display with significant energy savings.
- Description
- Every winter, Burnsville's Heart of the City area shines bright with over 200,000 mini lights, 230 streetlight snowflakes, and a 30-foot-tall tree.
- Where
- Burnsville | More Info : Burnsville Winter Lighting Ceremony
Lakeville Holiday on Main & Tree Lighting
- What to Expect
- Unique holiday celebration with community activities.
- Description
- Lakeville Holiday on Main & Tree Lighting is a festive event featuring holiday decorations, tree lighting, and community activities.
- Where
- Lakeville | More Info : Lakeville Holiday on Main & Tree Lighting
Edina Tree Lighting Ceremony
- What to Expect
- Holiday tree lighting with local business events.
- Description
- The Edina Tree Lighting Ceremony is a festive event held at 50th & France, featuring holiday-themed activities, local business events, and the main tree lighting ceremony.
- Where
- Edina | More Info : Edina Tree Lighting Ceremony
Apple Valley Holiday Markets and Shopping
European Christmas Market
- What to Expect
- Authentic European atmosphere with handcrafted goods and live entertainment.
- Description
- This charming market features a variety of artisan vendors offering handcrafted gifts, delicious food, and seasonal beverages. Visitors can wander through beautifully decorated stalls while enjoying live entertainment and festive activities. The atmosphere captures the spirit of traditional European holiday markets, appealing to all ages.
- Where
- St Paul | More Info : European Christmas Market
Apple Valley Holiday Shows and Entertainment
North Pole Express
- What to Expect
- Historic steam locomotive and vintage rail cars.
- Description
- Join Friends of the 261 for a holiday tradition where children and trains come together. The North Pole Express features historic rail cars pulled by classic locomotives, including the Milwaukee Road #261 steam locomotive and the Milwaukee Road #32A diesel. Enjoy a short train ride to the North Pole, write letters to Santa, and receive holiday treats. Santa will greet the train and walk through to collect letters and distribute gifts.
- Where
- St. Paul | More Info : North Pole Express
Apple Valley Other Holiday Activities
Inver Grove Heights Holidays in the Heights – Tree Lighting
- What to Expect
- Unique community-driven celebration with a festive tree lighting.
- Description
- Inver Grove Heights Holidays in the Heights – Tree Lighting is a cherished community event where residents gather to celebrate the holiday season with a festive tree lighting ceremony.
- Where
- Inver Grove Heights | More Info : Inver Grove Heights Holidays in the Heights – Tree Lighting