Minneapolis Christmas Lights 2025

Discover 9 verified christmas lights in Minneapolis and nearby areas.

Welcome to my guide for Minneapolis Christmas lights and holiday displays. If you're looking to see the city sparkle this season, you'll find plenty of options to enjoy festive light displays near Minneapolis.

Some of my favorite spots include the Winter Lights at the University of Minnesota Landscape Arboretum and a few beloved neighborhood favorites that light up the evenings with holiday cheer.

This guide covers free displays, ticketed events, drive-through lights, and walkable trails. Whether you're exploring on foot or by car, there's a way for everyone to discover the magic of holiday lights in and around Minneapolis.

All Christmas Lights Around Minneapolis

Once upon a Mansion: ASI's 73rd Holiday Experience

$$

Enchanting holiday experience in Minnesota's only castle.

Step into a storybook at the American Swedish Institute's 'Once upon a Mansion: ASI's 73rd Holiday Experience.' This enchanting event transforms the historic Turnblad Mansion into a magical realm of winter traditions, myths, and tales. Explore festive rooms adorned with...

Holiday Light DisplaysFamily FriendlySeasonal Activities

Night Trains 2025-2026 Season

Saint Paul, MN
$$

Illuminated model train displays in festive towns

Step into a magical winter wonderland at the Twin City Model Railroad Museum's Night Trainsยฎ season. As the lights dim, the museum's extensive collection of model trains and charming miniature towns come alive with glowing lights and festive holiday decorations....

Holiday Light DisplaysFamily FriendlySeasonal Activities

Fridley Winter Lights Contest

Fridley, MN 8 mi from Minneapolis
Free

City-wide holiday lights contest and tour

Get ready to illuminate your neighborhood! The Fridley Winter Lights Contest invites residents to showcase their dazzling holiday decorations. Residents can register their homes for free to be included on a special map, allowing everyone to embark on a custom...

Holiday Light DisplaysCommunity CelebrationFree Event

GLOW Holiday Festival

St. Paul, MN 9 mi from Minneapolis
$$

Over a million lights and festive exhibits.

Step into a dazzling winter wonderland at the GLOW Holiday Festival in St. Paul, MN. This beloved event returns for its sixth year, illuminating CHS Field with over a million lights. Explore enchanting new exhibits, experience the thrill of Vixen's...

Holiday Light DisplaysFamily FriendlyFestive Decorations

December Lights Tour

Brooklyn Park, MN 9 mi from Minneapolis
Free

Community-driven tour of neighborhood holiday lights.

Experience the magic of the holiday season with Brooklyn Park's December Lights Tour. Neighbors across the community share their festive spirit by decorating their homes with dazzling light displays. Use the interactive map to discover the most spectacular light installations...

Holiday Light DisplaysFamily FriendlyCommunity Celebration

Magic of Lights at Viking Lakes

Eagan, MN 11 mi from Minneapolis
$$

Dazzling drive-through light displays and interactive Holiday Village

Experience the Magic of Lights, a dazzling drive-through holiday spectacle at Viking Lakes. This event features favorite holiday scenes and characters illuminated with cutting-edge LED technology and digital animations. Guests can enjoy the sparkling path from the comfort of their...

Holiday Light DisplaysDrive Through DisplaysAnimated Displays

Holz Farm Old Fashioned Holiday

Eagan, MN 15 mi from Minneapolis
$

Old-fashioned holiday celebration at a historic farm.

Step back in time at Holz Farm for an Old Fashioned Holiday celebration. Experience the magic of a 1940s farm decorated for the season, complete with a festive outdoor atmosphere. Enjoy a self-guided tour of the grounds, a charming hayride,...

Holiday Light DisplaysSanta VisitsFamily Friendly

Valley Lights at Rockpoint Church

Lake Elmo, MN 18 mi from Minneapolis
Free

Over 100,000 LED lights synchronized to Christmas music.

Embark on a magical journey through Valley Lights at Rockpoint Church, a breathtaking drive-through Christmas light display. Immerse yourself in over 100,000 LED lights that twinkle and dance to the sounds of beloved Christmas carols. This enchanting event offers a...

Holiday Light DisplaysFree EventFamily Friendly

Minnesota Landscape Arboretum Winter Lights

Chaska, MN 19 mi from Minneapolis
$$

Over one million lights in a botanical-themed winter wonderland

Step into a magical winter wonderland at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum's Winter Lights. This immersive experience features over one million lights illuminating the gardens and buildings with nature-themed displays. Discover dazzling tunnels, glowing gardens, and a breathtaking indoor forest of...

Holiday Light DisplaysFestive DecorationsFamily Friendly

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See the location of all christmas lights around Minneapolis and nearby areas

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top Christmas light displays in or near Minneapolis?

Popular displays include Winter Lights at the University of Minnesota Landscape Arboretum and several neighborhood favorites known for their festive decorations. These light displays offer a mix of indoor and outdoor experiences.

Are there drive-through and walkable holiday lights options in Minneapolis?

Yes, Minneapolis offers both drive-through lights, like Magic of Lights at Viking Lakes, and walkable trails such as Winter Lights at the Arboretum. Each option provides a different way to enjoy the holiday lights.

When do Christmas lights typically start in Minneapolis?

Most holiday lights in Minneapolis begin in late November and run through early January. Many displays open around Thanksgiving and stay lit through New Yearโ€™s.

Are there free Christmas light displays in Minneapolis?

Yes, there are several free holiday lights displays in Minneapolis, including neighborhood streets and public parks. These are great for a casual evening stroll or drive.

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