Mankato Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025
Your complete guide to the best christmas events in Mankato and surrounding areas
Mankato sparkles for the Christmas season with Holiday lights, festive events, and community attractions centered on the downtown riverfront and Sibley Park. Take in the Kiwanis Holiday Lights, attend seasonal performances, and explore winter festivals that serve up markets, family activities, and illuminated displays. From cozy concerts to outdoor light tours and holiday parades, Mankato’s seasonal offerings provide many things to do for families and visitors seeking winter cheer.
Find the best Mankato Christmas happenings this year!
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Christmas Shows
17 eventsLive radio play recreation of 'A Christmas Carol'
Christmas Markets
8 eventsMulti-day winter festival with holiday markets and ice carving.
Christmas Lights
7 eventsVolunteer-produced holiday light display with donation drive
Christmas Activities
18 eventsHands-on holiday crafting workshops
Editor's Picks (6)
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Kiwanis Holiday Lights
Volunteer-produced holiday light display with donation drive
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The Spirit of Winter Festival of Lights
(Waconia)
Over twenty miles of musical synchronized lights.
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Celebrating the Season in Excelsior
(Excelsior)
Month-long holiday celebration with a focus on small, local businesses.
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Christmas at the Farm
(Minnetrista)
Festive farm holiday celebration
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Upcoming DIY Workshops
Hands-on holiday crafting workshops
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Christmas in the Village
(Owatonna)
Annual holiday kickoff event with decorated house and village
Events Happening Soon (6)
Christmas Parties Near Mankato
Festive dining experiences, holiday parties, and Christmas-themed food and drink events in Mankato.
Jingle Ball Rock-a-Hairball Holiday Party
Get ready for the Jingle Ball Rock-a-Hairball Holiday Party, a vibrant celebration packed...
View full details →Noon Year's Eve Party
Celebrate the New Year early at the Noon Year's Eve Party! This free,...
View full details →Mankato Christmas Events Map
See every Christmas event, light display, and market on one map.
Also Near Mankato
Christmas Events Road Trips & Weekend Getaways
Worth the drive for more holiday events near Mankato!
Mankato Christmas FAQ
Some of the biggest annual Christmas events in Mankato include the festive holiday markets and community gatherings that take place throughout the season, often centered around downtown and local event venues.
Mankato often embraces traditions like community light displays and local artisan markets, reflecting a strong sense of local pride and festive spirit during the holiday season.
Residential neighborhoods throughout Mankato are known for their festive Christmas lights, with many streets becoming particularly dazzling as residents decorate their homes.
You can find Christmas markets and local makers in Mankato at various community centers, event halls, and sometimes pop-up locations throughout the holiday season. Checking local event listings is the best way to find current market information.
Free and budget-friendly holiday activities in Mankato include admiring neighborhood Christmas lights, attending community events like tree lightings, and enjoying the festive ambiance of the downtown area.
Families with kids in Mankato can enjoy visiting Santa, exploring festive light displays, attending family-friendly shows, and participating in holiday craft activities often found at local markets and community events.