Christmas in the Village
Visitors can stroll through decorated historic buildings, take horse-drawn trolley rides, and watch living history demonstrations at the Carpenter Shop, Blacksmith Shop, and heritage homes. Guests can visit St. Nicholas at the Depot, watch G-scale model trains running through a winter scene in the Library, and enjoy live choral music and caroling. Seasonal treats and warm refreshments, including cider donuts, hot cocoa, soups, and baked potatoes, are available throughout the village.
What to Expect
Historic village holiday celebration featuring horse-drawn trolley rides and living history demonstrations.
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Dakota City Heritage Village
Food & Drink
Seasonal options include hot chocolate, cider, soups, baked potatoes, cider donuts, popcorn, and ice cream.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families with young children
Vibe
Festive and nostalgic
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
$
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
Moderate
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: Children under age 5 are free.
- Hours: 3 PM–8 PM.
- Parking: Free parking. Enter on 2nd Street from 220th.
Tips & Advice
- Bring cash, because the Dakota City Garage, Gift & Sweet Shop and General Store are cash only, though there's an ATM in Ahlberg Hall.
- Have kids write their St. Nick letter at home and seal it in a self-addressed, stamped envelope so they get a reply from the North Pole.
- Come on Saturday, December 5 to see the Tree Lighting Ceremony at the Bandstand and St. Nicholas's special arrival.
- Dress warmly for walking between buildings outside, and duck into the heated buildings to warm up as you go.
- Leave any alcohol at home, because none is allowed anywhere in the village.
Special Events & Promotions
- Tree Lighting Ceremony at the Bandstand on Saturday, December 5, with a special St. Nicholas arrival.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is there for kids to do?
Kids can visit St. Nicholas at the Depot, use the photo booth, make crafts and drop off a letter for St. Nicholas. At the School House they can pick up free Making Minnesota activity books, decorate paper chains and sign the chalkboard.
What food and drinks are available?
Snacks and drinks are sold throughout the village, including hot chocolate, cider, soups, baked potatoes, cider donuts, popcorn and ice cream. No alcohol is allowed in the village.
Should I bring cash?
Yes. The Drug Store takes cash or cards, but the Dakota City Garage, the Gift & Sweet Shop and the General Store are cash only. There is an ATM in Ahlberg Hall.
How do kids send a letter to St. Nick?
Bring a letter to St. Nick in a self-addressed, stamped envelope and mail it from the special post office box in the Dakota City Garage. There's also a letter-writing station, and St. Nick writes back from the North Pole after the event.
How can I volunteer?
Volunteers host buildings, scoop ice cream, demonstrate crafts or share their musical talent, and they get free parking and an orientation. Sign up at dakotacity.org/volunteer or call the office.
More Christmas Events Near Farmington
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Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.