Minneapolis is a great place to celebrate the Christmas season since some of the most cheerful and beautiful Christmas markets in the Midwest call there. The Twin Cities area gains a bit of European history, local handicaps, and holiday enthusiasm every year from the city’s Christmas markets. From the busy Holidazzle Market to the little European Christmas Market in St. Paul, every location has special appeal providing handcrafted items, mouthwatering seasonal cuisine, and events suitable for every age. Visitors can discover unusual presents, take in Christmas entertainment, and catch the charm of the season.This guide covers Minneapolis’s top five Christmas markets together with relevant information about must-see booths, activities, and attractions. Whether your tastes are in handcrafted goods, classic holiday cuisine, or time with family and friends, these markets offer a special experience that captures the essence of the Minnesota season. Discover the festive mood, find out places in Minneapolis to eat, buy, and most importantly celebrate the holidays.
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Toggle1: Holidazzle Market
Celebrated in Minneapolis, the Holidazzle Market in Loring Park is a holiday custom combining seasonal treats, family-friendly entertainment, and festive shopping. Weekend events at this outdoor market turn the park into a winter wonderland complete with glittering lights, a massive Christmas tree, and paths lined with decorations creating a spectacular experience. Shopping for one-of- a-kind things is best done during Holidazzle, which is well-known for its varied mix of exhibitors offering Minnesota-made crafts, Christmas gifts, and unusual artisanal goods. Apart from shopping, guests can enjoy free for everyone an ice-skating rink, live music, and Christmas movie shows. Families especially love the Santa’s Workshop area, where children can meet Santa and engage in holiday activities. For a bit of adventure, fireworks light up the sky each Saturday night, adding a festive sparkle to the evening. With its warm cocoa stands, food trucks, and joyful atmosphere, Holidazzle captures the essence of holiday cheer, offering a memorable experience that brings the Minneapolis community together to celebrate the season.
For a unique holiday shopping experience, head to the Christmas Markets in Phoenix for an array of festive events and activities.
Address: Loring Park, 1382 Willow St, Minneapolis, MN 55403
Dates: November 24 – December 17, 2025 (Weekends only)
Weekly Opening and Closing Times: Friday: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM, Saturday & Sunday: 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Entrance Fee: Free entry
Where to Buy Tickets: No tickets required; details available on Holidazzle’s website.
Nearest T Stations: Nicollet Mall Light Rail Station
Events:
- Outdoor Movie Screenings: Family-friendly holiday movies shown on a big screen.
- Fireworks Display: A fireworks show lights up the park each Saturday night.
- Ice Skating Rink: Free ice skating available for all visitors.
- Santa’s Workshop: Meet Santa and participate in family-friendly activities.
- Local Music Performances: Live music and caroling fill the air with holiday cheer.
Famous Shops or Stalls:
- Minnesota-Made Gifts: Local crafts and gifts showcasing Minnesota pride.
- Gourmet Food Trucks: Offering festive foods and beverages.
- Artisan Holiday Decor: Unique holiday decorations handcrafted by local artists.
Special Spots Not to Miss:
- Lighted Trails: Wander through beautifully lit trails around the park.
- Giant Christmas Tree: Perfect for family photos and holiday memories.
- Photo Booth with Holiday Props: Capture festive moments with friends and family.
- Santa’s Reindeer Display: Meet real reindeer on select nights.
- Warm Cocoa Stand: Enjoy hot cocoa with customizable toppings.
Parking Information: Metered street parking and nearby garages available.
Nearby Hotels:
- Millennium Minneapolis: Conveniently located near Loring Park.
- Hilton Minneapolis: Comfortable stay within walking distance.
- The Marquette Hotel: Upscale accommodations downtown.
Nearby Restaurants:
- Butcher & The Boar: Known for American fare and craft brews.
- The News Room: Festive ambiance with a holiday menu.
- Nicollet Diner: Classic diner serving comfort food close by.
2: European Christmas Market in St. Paul
The Twin Cities get old-world holiday appeal from the European Christmas Market held at Union Depot in St. Paul. Inspired by classic German Christmas markets, this joyful celebration boasts wooden booths lined with lights, holiday decorations, and the reassuring aroma of gingerbread and mulled wine.This market offers a really distinct cultural experience from German musicians, traditional dance events, and handicap demonstrations bringing European Christmas traditions to life. Visitors can browse locally and internationally artists’ handcrafted decorations, wooden toys, and cheerful home décor. Children love making decorations on a workbench, and families appreciate seeing Santa Claus in a modest European-style cabin. The market, which is at Union Depot, features a big Christmas tree and lovely holiday lights that would be ideal for pictures. The European Christmas Market presents a festive experience that transports guests to a European winter wonderland right in the center of St. Paul with free admission and a friendly environment.
Address: Union Depot, 214 4th St E, St. Paul, MN 55101
Dates: December 1 – December 23, 2025 (Weekends only)
Weekly Opening and Closing Times: Friday: 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM, Saturday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM, Sunday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Entrance Fee: Free entry
Where to Buy Tickets: No tickets required; more details on European Christmas Market’s website.
Nearest T Stations: Union Depot Light Rail Station
Events:
- Traditional German Carolers: Choirs perform holiday carols in German and English.
- Craft Demonstrations: Watch local artisans create traditional crafts.
- Holiday Storytelling for Kids: Storytelling sessions featuring holiday tales.
- German Dance Performances: Traditional dances showcasing German culture.
- Holiday Ornament Workshops: Make your own ornaments to take home.
Famous Shops or Stalls:
- Glühwein Stand: Enjoy warm mulled wine in collectible holiday mugs.
- German Sweets: Authentic German pastries, gingerbread, and stollen.
- Handcrafted Ornaments: Beautifully made ornaments inspired by European designs.
Special Spots Not to Miss:
- Union Depot Christmas Tree: An iconic, beautifully decorated tree.
- European Village Scene: Explore the quaint holiday village setup.
- Santa’s Cabin: Meet Santa in a cozy, European-inspired cabin.
- Holiday Light Tunnels: Perfect for a magical holiday walk.
- Photo Station with Wooden Sleigh: Ideal for capturing holiday memories.
Parking Information: Paid parking available at Union Depot.
Nearby Hotels:
- The Saint Paul Hotel: Historic and elegant hotel near the market.
- InterContinental Saint Paul Riverfront: Luxury accommodations close by.
- Hampton Inn & Suites St. Paul Downtown: Family-friendly and comfortable.
Nearby Restaurants:
- Kincaid’s Fish, Chop & Steakhouse: Classic American dishes with holiday specials.
- The Buttered Tin: Cozy café known for breakfast and holiday treats.
- Handsome Hog: Southern-inspired cuisine with a festive twist.
3: Minneapolis Holiday Boutique
The Minneapolis Holiday Boutique, held at the iconic U.S. Bank Stadium, is a shopping extravaganza that kicks off the holiday season in style. This industry has almost 200 companies that sell anything from elegant winter clothes and delicious food to seasonal décor and jewelry. The boutique enables visitors find seasonal items and original presents all in one place, hence it is the ideal spot for holiday shopping with its great range of products. Fashion displays show holiday trends; live music events and cuisine demonstrations complement the vibrant surroundings. On-site there is even a gift-wrapping station so customers may depart with exquisitely wrapped gifts ready to put under the tree. Children can create holiday souvenirs from a designated crafting area, therefore ensuring that the celebration is fun for all ages. Holiday lights and decorations help the stadium itself to create a festive atmosphere that enhances the shopping experience. Holiday buffs will not miss the Minneapolis Holiday Boutique’s emphasis on style, diversity, and entertainment.
Address: U.S. Bank Stadium, 401 Chicago Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55415
Dates: November 17 – November 19, 2025
Weekly Opening and Closing Times: Friday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM, Saturday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM, Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Entrance Fee: $12 for adults; children under 12 enter free
Where to Buy Tickets: Tickets available on Holiday Boutique’s website.
Nearest T Stations: U.S. Bank Stadium Light Rail Station
Events:
- Fashion Shows: Holiday fashion trends showcased by local designers.
- Gift Wrapping Station: Complimentary wrapping for market purchases.
- Live Music: Performances by local bands and solo artists.
- Cooking Demonstrations: Holiday recipe demos by local chefs.
- Meet & Greet with Designers: Interact with designers showcasing holiday collections.
Famous Shops or Stalls:
- Handmade Jewelry Booths: Unique jewelry crafted by local artisans.
- Winter Apparel Shops: Find cozy scarves, hats, and gloves.
- Minnesota-Themed Decor: Gifts celebrating Minnesota’s winter wonderland.
Special Spots Not to Miss:
- U.S. Bank Stadium Views: Enjoy the stadium decked out for the holidays.
- Selfie Station with Holiday Props: Capture fun moments with festive backdrops.
- Kids Craft Corner: An area where children can make holiday crafts.
- Warm Beverage Corner: Hot cider, cocoa, and holiday coffee drinks.
- Exclusive Holiday Gift Bags: Free gift bags for early arrivals.
Parking Information: Paid parking available at U.S. Bank Stadium.
Nearby Hotels:
- Radisson RED Minneapolis Downtown: Modern hotel close to the stadium.
- Canopy by Hilton Minneapolis Mill District: Boutique stay with holiday decor.
- aloft Minneapolis: Trendy, family-friendly hotel.
Nearby Restaurants:
- Crooked Pint Ale House: Known for comfort food and holiday specials.
- McKinney Roe: Upscale American dishes with a cozy ambiance.
- Day Block Brewing Company: Brewery with holiday-themed beers and bites.
4: Excelsior Christkindlsmarkt
The Excelsior Christkindlsmarkt, modeled after traditional German holiday markets, is a delightful event that delivers a pleasant, European-style Christmas atmosphere to the lakeside town of Excelsior. This market is noted for its cultural authenticity, with German-inspired dishes such as bratwurst, stollen, and warm glühwein (mulled wine). The atmosphere is enhanced by the presence of traditional German folk dancers and carolers, who fill the air with festive cheer. The Christkindlsmarkt also includes a children’s area with craft activities and an alpaca petting zoo, making it a fun outing for families. The Grand Parade with St. Nicholas is a highlight, attracting both children and adults as it spreads holiday pleasure to the market. Visitors can browse wooden kiosks stocked with seasonal decor, woolen goods, and one-of-a-kind handcrafted items ideal for holiday gift giving. Excelsior Christkindlsmarkt, with its free entrance, festive lights, and picturesque lakeside setting, provides a magnificent Christmas experience straight out of Europe.
Address: 312 Water St, Excelsior, MN 55331
Dates: November 24 – November 26, 2025
Weekly Opening and Closing Times: Friday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM, Saturday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM, Sunday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Entrance Fee: Free entry
Where to Buy Tickets: No tickets required; details on Excelsior Christkindlsmarkt website.
Nearest T Stations: Not directly accessible by light rail; accessible by car or local bus from Minneapolis.
Events:
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- Grand Parade with St. Nicholas: Celebrate the season with a festive parade led by St. Nicholas.
- German Dance Performances: Traditional German folk dances bring cultural heritage to life.
- Holiday Craft Making: Kids can create handmade crafts and ornaments.
- Alpaca Petting Zoo: A family favorite where kids can meet friendly alpacas.
- Christmas Carol Sing-Along: Join carolers in singing classic holiday tunes.
Famous Shops or Stalls:
- German Christmas Cookies Stand: Authentic German treats like lebkuchen and stollen.
- Handwoven Wool Goods: Beautiful scarves and blankets from local artisans.
- Traditional Wood Crafts: Handmade decor inspired by German holiday markets.
Special Spots Not to Miss:
- Market Square Christmas Tree: A beautifully decorated tree, perfect for photos.
- Nativity Scene Display: A traditional nativity scene in a peaceful setting.
- Holiday Photo Booth with St. Nicholas: Capture festive photos with Santa’s European counterpart.
- Outdoor Fire Pits: Warm up and enjoy the ambiance with family and friends.
- Hot Glühwein Stand: Sample warm mulled wine served in festive mugs.
Parking Information: Free and paid parking available near Water Street.
Nearby Hotels:
- The Hotel Landing: Upscale, lakeside hotel with festive decor.
- AmericInn by Wyndham Chanhassen: Family-friendly hotel nearby.
- Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Chanhassen: Comfortable and accessible.
Nearby Restaurants:
- Coalition Restaurant: Known for creative American fare in a cozy setting.
- Red Sauce Rebellion: Classic Italian dishes with a holiday twist.
- Maynards Restaurant: Lakeside dining with seasonal menu options.
5: Midtown Global Market’s Holiday Market
Individuals who enjoy learning about holiday traditions from around the world will appreciate the vibrant, culturally rich experience provided by Midtown Global Market in Minneapolis. This indoor market is a one-of-a-kind shopping destination, with a broad range of sellers selling international products, handmade items, and delicious seasonal cuisine.. From exotic teas and spices to artisan jewelry and festive decor, the market is filled with distinctive items that showcase the cultural diversity of the Twin Cities. Live performances by cultural dance groups and musicians provide lively entertainment, while family-friendly activities like the craft section teach children about various countries’ holiday traditions. Santa also appears, asking children to listen to holiday stories and snap pictures.Visitors can add a unique twist to their Christmas celebrations by sampling seasonal dishes like Mexican hot chocolate and Middle Eastern desserts. Midtown World Market’s Holiday Market is free to visit, and its warm, lively atmosphere makes it a must-see for anybody looking to celebrate the season in a multicultural setting.
Address: 920 E Lake St, Minneapolis, MN 55407
Dates: December 8 – December 23, 2025
Weekly Opening and Closing Times: Monday to Saturday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM, Sunday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Entrance Fee: Free entry
Where to Buy Tickets: No tickets required; details on Midtown Global Market’s website.
Nearest T Stations: Lake St/Midtown Station on the Metro Transit Blue Line
Events:
- Global Holiday Food Tastings: Sample seasonal dishes from around the world.
- Holiday Craft Fair: Local artisans offer unique holiday gifts and decor.
- Live Cultural Performances: Enjoy music and dance from various cultural groups.
- Family Crafting Corner: Kids can make holiday crafts inspired by global traditions.
- Santa Visits and Storytelling: A cozy area for holiday stories and photos with Santa.
Famous Shops or Stalls:
- Exotic Spices and Teas: Unique holiday spices and teas from around the globe.
- Handmade Jewelry: Artisan jewelry from local and international crafters.
- Latin American Sweets: A variety of holiday sweets from Latin America.
Special Spots Not to Miss:
- International Christmas Tree Displays: Trees decorated to represent different cultures.
- Mural Wall Art: Colorful murals provide a vibrant holiday backdrop.
- Warm Beverages Corner: Sample international holiday drinks like Mexican hot chocolate.
- Photo Station with Global Decor: Capture unique holiday memories with cultural decorations.
- Market Atrium: A beautifully decorated atrium filled with lights and ornaments.
Parking Information: Free parking for two hours in the Midtown Exchange parking ramp.
Nearby Hotels:
- Sheraton Minneapolis Midtown Hotel: Modern and close to the market.
- The Westin Minneapolis: Upscale option with great amenities.
- Millennium Minneapolis: Comfortable stay with convenient access to the city.
Nearby Restaurants:
- Holy Land: Middle Eastern cuisine with holiday specials.
- Taqueria La Hacienda: Authentic Mexican street food with a festive flair.
- Eastlake Craft Brewery: Craft brews in a cozy setting, perfect for the holidays.