Minnesota transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season, offering a variety of spectacular light displays that captivate visitors of all ages. From drive-through experiences to walkable festivals, here are some of the state’s most enchanting holiday light displays for 2024.
1. Glow Holiday Festival (St. Paul)
Located at CHS Field, the Glow Holiday Festival features over a million lights, illuminated structures, and interactive exhibits. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely walk through the displays, savor treats from local vendors, and participate in family-friendly activities. The festival runs select evenings through January 5, 2025.
2. Bentleyville “Tour of Lights” (Duluth)
Set along the scenic Lake Superior waterfront, Bentleyville is one of America’s largest free walk-through light displays. With over five million lights, a 128-foot Christmas tree, and visits from Santa Claus, it’s a must-see attraction. The event is open nightly through December 26, 2024.
3. Kiwanis Holiday Lights (Mankato)
Sibley Park in Mankato comes alive with over 1.8 million LED lights, animated displays, and a choreographed light show set to music. Visitors can walk or drive through the displays, and there’s even a skating rink and horse-drawn wagon rides on select nights. The event runs nightly through December 31, 2024.
4. Sam’s Christmas Village (Somerset, WI)
Just across the Minnesota-Wisconsin border, Sam’s Christmas Village boasts over 16 million lights, making it a dazzling destination for holiday enthusiasts. The village offers both walk-through and drive-through options, along with festive food and activities. Open through January 1, 2025.
5. Sever’s Holiday Lights (Shakopee)
This drive-through display features over 2.5 million lights synchronized to holiday music. Guests can enjoy the spectacle from the comfort of their vehicles while tuning in to a dedicated radio station. The event is open select evenings through January 1, 2025.
6. Celebrate the Light of the World (Willmar)
A free event located at Robbins Island Park, this display features over 800,000 lights, a nativity scene, and festive music. Visitors can drive through the park or take a horse-drawn carriage ride on select nights. The display runs nightly through December 31, 2024.
7. Nature Illuminated at the Minnesota Zoo (Apple Valley)
Experience larger-than-life animal art installations illuminated in the winter night. This drive-through event combines the beauty of wildlife with the magic of holiday lights. Open select evenings through January 5, 2025.
8. Holiday Lights in the Park (St. Paul)
Phalen Park is transformed into a drive-through wonderland with over 60 holiday-themed light sculptures and displays. Proceeds from the event support local charities. Open nightly through January 1, 2025.
9. Lights in the Park (Sleepy Eye)
This community-driven display features thousands of lights adorning Sportsman’s Park. Visitors can drive through the park to enjoy the festive scenes. Open nightly through December 31, 2024.
10. Holidazzle (Minneapolis)
Held at Loring Park, Holidazzle offers illuminated displays, a skating rink, festive food vendors, and family-friendly activities. The event runs on weekends through December 22, 2024.
Before visiting, it’s recommended to check each event’s official website for the most current information on dates, hours, and any potential changes. Bundle up, bring some hot cocoa, and immerse yourself in the festive spirit that Minnesota’s holiday light displays have to offer!
