Christmas Lights Near Me: Top Holiday Displays in Minnesota for 2025
The holiday season in Minnesota transforms the state into a winter wonderland, where snow-dusted landscapes are illuminated by millions of twinkling Christmas lights. From the grandeur of the Bentleyville Tour of Lights in Duluth to the cozy charm of neighborhood displays in St. Paul and Minneapolis, Minnesota offers a dazzling array of holiday light experiences for 2025. Whether you’re a local seeking a festive outing or a visitor exploring the Land of 10,000 Lakes, this comprehensive guide is your ultimate resource for discovering the best Christmas light displays in Minnesota. We’ve included detailed information on locations, dates, costs, unique features, and practical tips to help you plan a memorable holiday adventure. So, bundle up, grab a hot cocoa, and let’s dive into the magic of Minnesota’s 2025 holiday lights!
The Magic of Minnesota’s Holiday Season
Minnesota’s long, snowy winters create the perfect backdrop for holiday light displays that sparkle against the frosty landscape. The state’s communities, from vibrant urban centers like Minneapolis and St. Paul to quaint towns like Stillwater and Mankato, embrace the season with creativity, warmth, and a sense of togetherness. Holiday lights in Minnesota are more than just decorations—they’re a celebration of community spirit, family traditions, and the joy of the season. In 2025, expect bigger, brighter, and more innovative displays, with many events introducing new features like interactive light tunnels, synchronized music shows, and eco-friendly LED installations.
This guide is designed with visitors in mind, offering a people-first approach that prioritizes clarity, depth, and practicality. We’ve curated a list of the top holiday light displays across Minnesota, ensuring you have all the information you need to plan your visit. From major ticketed events to free neighborhood gems, we cover the full spectrum of experiences, complete with addresses, operating hours, ticket prices, and insider tips. Whether you’re searching for “Christmas lights near me” on your phone or planning a multi-stop holiday tour, this guide will help you create unforgettable memories in Minnesota this holiday season.
Our commitment to quality and trustworthiness is rooted in thorough research and a focus on user intent. We’ve consulted official event websites, local community resources, and regional news outlets to ensure all information is accurate and up-to-date for 2025. We’ve also included links to authoritative sources, such as event websites, to help you verify details and make reservations. Let’s explore the top Christmas light displays in Minnesota for 2025, organized into categories for easy navigation: mega-displays, drive-through and neighborhood delights, free and budget-friendly options, and additional unique experiences.
The Mega-Displays: Paid & Large-Scale Events
Minnesota is renowned for its large-scale holiday light displays, which draw thousands of visitors each year with their millions of lights, themed attractions, and family-friendly activities. These ticketed or donation-based events offer immersive experiences that are worth planning your holiday around. Below, we highlight two of the state’s most iconic mega-displays for 2025, complete with everything you need to know to make the most of your visit.
Bentleyville Tour of Lights, Duluth
The Bentleyville Tour of Lights in Duluth’s Bayfront Festival Park is America’s largest free walk-through light show, and it’s a must-visit for anyone seeking a quintessential Minnesota holiday experience. Spanning over 5 million LED lights, this display transforms the Lake Superior waterfront into a magical winter village. Visitors can stroll through illuminated tunnels, marvel at towering Christmas trees, and explore themed displays featuring everything from Santa’s sleigh to Minnesota-inspired scenes like lighthouses and loons.
| Location | Dates | Hours | Price | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bayfront Festival Park, 700 Railroad Street, Duluth, MN 55802 | November 22, 2025 - December 28, 2025 | 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM (Sun-Thurs), 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM (Fri-Sat) | Free (donations encouraged) | Light tunnels, Santa’s Workshop, free hot cocoa, fire pits, Winter Village Market |
Bentleyville is a community-driven event that’s free to the public, making it accessible to all. In 2025, the display introduces new interactive light tunnels with motion-activated colors, an expanded Santa’s Workshop with photo opportunities, and a “Winter Village Market” featuring local artisans selling handmade gifts. Families can warm up by fire pits, roast complimentary marshmallows, and sip free hot cocoa, creating a cozy and festive atmosphere. The event is fully accessible, with paved paths and mobility-friendly options, ensuring everyone can enjoy the magic.
What’s New for 2025: This year, Bentleyville adds a “Northern Lights” display inspired by the aurora borealis, complete with shimmering green and purple lights. The event also hosts special nights, such as “All Abilities Night” with reduced sensory stimuli and “Pet Night” for leashed dogs. Volunteers, many of whom return year after year, keep the event running smoothly, adding to its warm, community-focused vibe.
Visitor Tips:
- Arrive before 6:00 PM to avoid peak crowds, especially on weekends.
- Dress warmly, as Duluth’s lakefront can be chilly, with temperatures often dipping below 20°F.
- Parking is available at Bayfront Festival Park, but consider carpooling or using the free shuttle from designated lots (check the website for details).
- Bring a small donation to support the event’s operations and local charities.
- Visit on a weekday for a quieter experience, or attend a special event night for unique activities.
Glow Holiday Festival, CHS Field, St. Paul
The Glow Holiday Festival at CHS Field in St. Paul transforms the baseball stadium into a sparkling winter wonderland with over 1 million LED lights. This walk-through event combines dazzling displays with interactive attractions, making it a top choice for families and visitors seeking a festive outing. Highlights include a 150-foot snow slide, a Vixen zip line, a holiday market, and an illuminated gingerbread house that’s perfect for photos.
| Location | Dates | Hours | Price | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CHS Field, 360 N Broadway St, St. Paul, MN 55101 | November 21, 2025 - January 5, 2026 | 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM | $12.75-$21.75 (kids under 5 free) | Snow slide, zip line, holiday market, three-story ice palace, sElfie Plaza |
For 2025, Glow Holiday Festival introduces a three-story ice palace with colorful light projections and a bike-powered light display where visitors can pedal to illuminate a Christmas tree. The “sElfie Plaza” offers fun photo backdrops, including a giant snow globe and a Santa sleigh. Food stations serve warm treats like hot chocolate, mini donuts, and local Minnesota specialties, while the holiday market features crafts from Twin Cities artisans. The event’s new location at CHS Field enhances accessibility, with ample parking and proximity to public transit.
What’s New for 2025: The festival adds a “Winter Village” section with heated tents for dining and shopping, plus a new live music stage featuring local choirs and bands. The event also offers sensory-friendly hours on select evenings for visitors with sensory sensitivities.
Visitor Tips:
- Purchase tickets online in advance to secure your preferred time slot and save on fees.
- Bring cash for food trucks and market vendors, as some may not accept cards.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking and warm clothing for outdoor areas, as parts of the event are outside.
- Check the event schedule for special nights like “Family Night” with discounted child tickets or “Date Night” with romantic photo ops.
- Use public transit (Green Line to Union Depot) to avoid parking hassles.
Official Glow Holiday Festival Website
Drive-Through and Neighborhood Delights
For visitors who prefer to stay warm in their vehicles or want to explore the charm of local communities, Minnesota offers a variety of drive-through light displays and neighborhood shows. These options range from ticketed events with synchronized music to free residential displays that showcase the state’s community spirit. Below, we highlight some of the best drive-through and neighborhood experiences for 2025.
Sever’s Holiday Lights, Shakopee
Sever’s Holiday Lights at Canterbury Park in Shakopee is a drive-through spectacle featuring over 2.5 million LED lights synchronized to holiday music. This half-mile display is a local favorite, offering a vibrant, “new age” light show that’s perfect for families, couples, or anyone looking to enjoy the holidays from the comfort of their car.
| Location | Dates | Hours | Price | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Canterbury Park, 3121 150th Street W, Shakopee, MN 55379 | November 15, 2025 - January 5, 2026 | 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM | $25-$60 per vehicle (varies by day) | Music-synchronized lights, Winter Safari section, multiple passes allowed |
In 2025, Sever’s introduces a “Winter Safari” section with animal-themed light sculptures, including glowing elephants, giraffes, and polar bears. The display uses state-of-the-art LED technology for vivid colors and energy efficiency. Visitors can drive through multiple times per visit, making it a great value for groups. Tune your radio to the designated station for a fully immersive experience, with music ranging from classic carols to modern holiday hits.
What’s New for 2025: The event adds a “Minnesota Moments” section with light displays celebrating local icons like the Spoonbridge and Cherry and Paul Bunyan. Timed ticketing ensures shorter wait times, and a new VIP package includes a dedicated lane and holiday swag.
Visitor Tips:
- Visit on Tuesdays for $10 per vehicle or before December 16 for $30 per vehicle to save on tickets.
- Book tickets for a specific time slot to avoid long lines, especially on weekends.
- Turn off headlights to enhance the light show’s visibility and follow traffic guidelines.
- Bring snacks, blankets, and hot drinks for a cozy car experience.
- Check the website for weather updates, as the event operates rain or shine.
Official Sever’s Holiday Lights Website
Magic of Lights, Viking Lakes, Eagan
Magic of Lights at Viking Lakes in Eagan is a newer addition to Minnesota’s holiday scene, offering a drive-through experience with over 2 million LED lights. This family-friendly display features classic holiday scenes, a 200-foot Enchanting Tunnel of Lights, and unique attractions like a Waving Christmas Barbie™ and a BIGFOOT® Monster Truck illuminated in festive colors.
| Location | Dates | Hours | Price | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Viking Lakes, 2685 Viking Circle, Eagan, MN 55121 | November 22, 2025 - January 5, 2026 | 5:30 PM - 9:00 PM (Mon-Thurs), 5:30 PM - 10:00 PM (Fri-Sun) | $25-$35 per vehicle | Enchanting Tunnel, Waving Christmas Barbie™, Prehistoric Christmas |
The 2025 season introduces new animated displays, including a “12 Days of Christmas” scene with partridges and pear trees, and a “Prehistoric Christmas” section featuring light-up dinosaurs. The event is designed for comfort, allowing families to enjoy the lights from their cars while listening to holiday music on a dedicated radio station. Tickets are priced per vehicle, making it an affordable option for groups.
What’s New for 2025: The display adds a “Winter Sports” section celebrating Minnesota’s hockey and skiing culture, with light sculptures of skaters and skiers. A new “Santa’s Village” scene features animated elves and reindeer, delighting younger visitors.
Visitor Tips:
- Purchase tickets online to save time and money (online discounts often available).
- Arrive early on weekends to avoid peak traffic, especially around 7:00 PM.
- Bring a playlist of holiday music as a backup in case the radio station signal is weak.
- Check the website for discount codes or group rates before booking.
- Consider visiting on a weekday for a faster drive-through experience.
Official Magic of Lights Website
Local Neighborhoods
Minnesota’s neighborhoods are a treasure trove of holiday light displays, offering free experiences that rival professional events. These resident-driven shows showcase community pride and creativity, with some homes featuring synchronized music or interactive elements. Summit Avenue in St. Paul, a 4.5-mile stretch of historic Victorian mansions, is a standout, while Minneapolis neighborhoods like Linden Hills and Tangletown offer charming displays.
Top Neighborhoods to Explore:
- Summit Avenue, St. Paul: This iconic street is lined with historic homes adorned with elegant light displays, wreaths, and decorated trees. Drive or walk between Lawton and Heather Drive to discover hidden gems. Open nightly, 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM, free.
- Linden Hills, Minneapolis: Known for its creative displays, this neighborhood features inflatables, synchronized lights, and festive yard art. Check 5010 126th St N for a notable show. Open nightly, 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM, free.
- Excelsior Kirsten’s Lights, Excelsior: Located at 3821 Linden Cir, this display boasts 23,000 lights, inflatables, and a walkable path. Open 3:00 PM - 11:00 PM daily, free, with donations supporting local charities.
- Claret Avenue Lights, Rosemount: At 15619 Claret Avenue W, this display features 35,000 lights and a walkable front-yard path where visitors can queue songs via a provided system. Open nightly, 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM, free.
- White Bear Lake Displays: Homes along 11th Street and Douglas Lane feature synchronized light shows, with some collecting donations for the Minnesota Epilepsy Foundation. Open nightly, 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM, free.
Tips for Finding and Enjoying Neighborhood Displays:
- Join local Facebook groups like “Twin Cities Holiday Lights” or “Minnesota Christmas Light Displays” for resident-recommended spots and crowd-sourced maps.
- Check community news outlets like the Star Tribune or Give Me The Mike for updated lists of decorated streets.
- Drive after 6:00 PM for optimal visibility, and turn off headlights to respect residents and enhance the light show.
- Consider donating to displays collecting for charities, as many support local causes like food shelves or medical foundations.
- Be mindful of traffic and parking, as popular streets like Summit Avenue can get busy on weekends.
Why Neighborhood Displays Shine: These displays are often labors of love, with residents spending months planning and decorating. Many incorporate unique themes, such as Minnesota sports teams, classic holiday movies, or whimsical characters, making each stop a delightful surprise. Exploring neighborhoods also offers a chance to see Minnesota’s diverse architectural styles, from St. Paul’s Victorian mansions to Minneapolis’s craftsman homes.
Free & Budget-Friendly Holiday Displays
For visitors on a budget, Minnesota offers a wealth of free or low-cost holiday light displays that deliver festive cheer without the price tag. From community festivals to park displays, these options are perfect for families, students, or anyone looking to save while celebrating the season. Below, we highlight some of the best free and budget-friendly displays for 2025.
Holidazzle, Minneapolis
Holidazzle is Minneapolis’s premier free holiday festival, held along Nicollet Mall in the heart of downtown. This vibrant event combines sparkling light displays with a festive market, live performances, a light parade, and fireworks, creating a joyful community celebration.
| Location | Dates | Hours | Price | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis, MN 55401 | December 5, 2025 - December 21, 2025 | 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM (Fri-Sun) | Free | Light parade, holiday market, fireworks, free kids’ activities |
In 2025, Holidazzle introduces a new light parade route along Nicollet Mall, featuring illuminated floats, dancers, and Santa himself. The festival expands its free activities for kids, including face painting, craft stations, and storytime with Mrs. Claus. Fireworks light up the sky on select Friday nights, and food vendors offer warm treats like hot cider, kettle corn, and roasted chestnuts. The event’s central location makes it easily accessible by public transit, with the light rail stopping at Nicollet Mall station.
What’s New for 2025: The festival adds a “Winter Art Walk” showcasing light-based installations by local artists, plus a new ice skating rink open free to the public (skate rentals available for a small fee). The holiday market features more vendors than ever, with unique gifts like handcrafted ornaments and Minnesota-made maple syrup.
Visitor Tips:
- Arrive early to secure parking, or take the Green Line light rail to Nicollet Mall station for easy access.
- Bundle up for outdoor activities, as temperatures can dip below freezing in December.
- Visit on a Friday at 8:00 PM for the best chance to see the fireworks display.
- Explore nearby Rice Park, which features a giant Christmas tree and additional holiday lights.
- Bring cash for food vendors and market purchases, as some may not accept cards.
Kiwanis Holiday Lights, Sibley Park, Mankato
Kiwanis Holiday Lights at Sibley Park in Mankato is Minnesota’s largest drive-through light display, featuring over 2 million LED lights across creative and charming setups. Visitors can also opt to walk through the display for a closer look, making it a versatile option for all preferences.
| Location | Dates | Hours | Price | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sibley Park, Mankato, MN 56001 | November 29, 2025 - December 31, 2025 | 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM (Sun-Thurs), 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM (Fri-Sat) | Free (donations encouraged) | Drive-through or walk-through, Santa visits, ice sculptures, Elf on a Shelf |
This community-driven event supports local food shelves, with visitors encouraged to bring canned goods or cash donations. The 2025 season kicks off with a lighted parade on opening night (November 29), featuring floats and community groups. Weekly Santa visits and a fun scavenger hunt for the Elf on a Shelf and Sibley Park Squirrel keep families engaged. The display includes unique setups like a light-up Nativity scene, a Minnesota Vikings-themed section, and ice sculptures on select nights.
What’s New for 2025: The event adds a “Winter Farmyard” section with light sculptures of animals and tractors, celebrating Minnesota’s agricultural heritage. A new mobile app allows visitors to track the scavenger hunt and access real-time event updates.
Visitor Tips:
- Enter via Mound Ave. for walkers or follow bright blue signs for drive-through parking.
- Bring non-perishable food donations to support local food shelves and enter a raffle for holiday prizes.
- Visit on a weekday to avoid weekend crowds, especially around Christmas.
- Check the website for special events like the ice sculpture competition or Santa’s final appearance on December 23.
- Bring a camera to capture the illuminated Nativity scene and other unique displays.
Official Kiwanis Holiday Lights Website
Local Parks and Public Spaces
Minnesota’s parks and public spaces offer some of the most serene and budget-friendly holiday light displays, combining natural beauty with festive decorations. These free displays are perfect for evening strolls or family outings, and many are located in easily accessible urban areas.
Top Park Displays:
- Como Park Zoo & Conservatory, St. Paul: The conservatory gardens feature free light displays with animal-themed lights, open nightly from 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM, November 28, 2025 - January 5, 2026. The zoo’s tropical setting adds a unique contrast to the wintery lights. Free, donations appreciated.
- Lake Phalen, St. Paul: A twinkling lakeside trail with free lights, open nightly from 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM, December 1, 2025 - January 1, 2026. The trail is perfect for a peaceful evening walk or jog. Free.
- Centennial Lakes Park, Edina: This park features a free holiday light display with a shimmering snowflake and an illuminated igloo for photos, lit at dusk nightly through January 31, 2026. Free skating on the pond adds to the festive vibe (skate rentals $5).
- Robbins Island Regional Park, Willmar: The Celebrate the Light of the World display features nearly 900,000 lights in a drive-through setup, open 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM from Thanksgiving to December 31, 2025. Donations support local charities like the Salvation Army.
- Phalen Park, St. Paul: The park’s holiday lights include a free display around the lake, with a focus on eco-friendly LEDs. Open nightly, 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM, December 1, 2025 - January 1, 2026.
Why Park Displays Stand Out: These displays often highlight Minnesota’s natural beauty, with lights draped over trees, reflecting off lakes, or framing historic structures. They’re ideal for visitors seeking a low-key, budget-friendly experience that still captures the holiday spirit. Many parks also host community events, like caroling or hot chocolate nights, adding to the festive atmosphere.
Additional Holiday Light Experiences
Beyond the major displays and neighborhood gems, Minnesota and its neighboring areas offer unique holiday light experiences that blend culture, history, and outdoor adventure. These events provide a fresh perspective on the holiday season, making them perfect for visitors looking to explore something different.
Winter Lights at Minnesota Landscape Arboretum, Chaska
The Winter Lights display at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum in Chaska is a 0.75-mile walking tour through gardens illuminated with nature-themed lights. Highlights include a 16-foot weeping willow, a walk-through Honeycrisp apple celebrating Minnesota’s famous fruit, and a glowing meadow of light sculptures.
| Location | Dates | Hours | Price | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3675 Arboretum Dr, Chaska, MN 55318 | November 21, 2025 - January 5, 2026 | 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM | $10 (members), $30 (non-members), $5 (kids 15 and under) | Woodland lights, S’mores Village, Honeycrisp apple display, heated bus service |
The 2025 season features special nights like Family Nights (November 26, December 19) with crafts and hot cocoa, and Photographer Nights (December 11, 18) for crowd-free photo opportunities. A heated bus service from East Creek Transit Station is available on select nights, making it easy to access. The arboretum’s natural setting, with snow-covered trees and open fields, enhances the beauty of the lights.
What’s New for 2025: The display adds a “Winter Wildlife” section with light sculptures of deer, owls, and foxes, plus a new “S’mores Village” where visitors can roast marshmallows for a small fee. The event also introduces eco-friendly initiatives, using 100% LED lights and solar-powered displays.
Visitor Tips:
- Reserve tickets by phone for member pricing if you’re Indigenous or a student (discounts available).
- Visit on a Family Night for kid-friendly activities like storytelling and crafts.
- Wear sturdy, waterproof boots for the outdoor walking path, as it can be snowy or icy.
- Bring a camera for the scenic displays, especially on Photographer Nights with tripods allowed.
- Check the weather forecast, as the event operates rain or shine but may close for severe storms.
Official Minnesota Landscape Arboretum Website
Miracle at Big Rock, St. Croix Falls, WI
Just across the Minnesota border, Miracle at Big Rock in St. Croix Falls, Wisconsin, offers a mile-long display with an astonishing 25 million LED lights. This event combines walk-through and drive-through options, with attractions like a sledding hill, food trucks, Friday night fireworks, and a Christmas Boutique.
| Location | Dates | Hours | Price | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1674 WI-87, St. Croix Falls, WI 54024 | November 29, 2025 - January 4, 2026 | 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM (Mon-Thurs), 5:00 PM - 11:00 PM (Fri-Sun) | $15-$25 per person (walk-through), $25-$35 per vehicle (drive-through) | 25 million lights, sledding hill, fireworks, Christmas Boutique |
The 2025 season introduces live music performances by local bands and choirs, plus an expanded Christmas Boutique with artisans from Minnesota and Wisconsin. The event’s picturesque setting, with lights reflecting off the St. Croix River, feels like a scene from a Hallmark movie. Visitors can book a s’mores cabin for a cozy experience (starting at $159) or enjoy free activities like meeting Santa and Mrs. Claus.
What’s New for 2025: The display adds a “Winter Hamlet Glow” section with light-up cottages and a skating rink (skate rentals $5). A new accessibility path ensures the walk-through is wheelchair-friendly, and a shuttle service from nearby parking lots reduces congestion.
Visitor Tips:
- Book tickets in advance for walk-through or drive-through nights to guarantee your spot.
- Visit on a Friday at 8:30 PM for the fireworks show, which is a highlight for kids and adults.
- Reserve a s’mores cabin early, as they sell out quickly during peak weeks.
- Bring cash for food trucks, market purchases, and optional activities like sledding ($5 per person).
- Dress warmly and wear snow boots, as the walk-through path can be snowy.
Official Miracle at Big Rock Website
Planning Your Holiday Light Adventure
With so many incredible Christmas light displays across Minnesota, planning your holiday adventure is key to maximizing your experience. Here are some general tips to help you navigate the 2025 season, whether you’re visiting one display or embarking on a multi-stop tour:
- Check Event Websites: Always verify dates, times, and ticket requirements on official event websites, as schedules may change due to weather or other factors. Links to official sites are provided for each display above.
- Dress for the Weather: Minnesota winters can be cold, with temperatures often below 20°F. Wear layers, waterproof boots, hats, gloves, and scarves, especially for walk-through displays or outdoor events.
- Plan for Crowds: Popular displays like Bentleyville and Glow Holiday Festival can get busy on weekends. Visit on weekdays or early in the evening to avoid crowds and long lines.
- Use Public Transit: For urban events like Holidazzle or Glow Holiday Festival, consider taking public transit (e.g., Metro Transit’s Green Line) to avoid parking hassles.
- Bring Snacks and Drinks: For drive-through displays or long evenings out, pack hot cocoa, coffee, or snacks to keep everyone comfortable and happy.
- Support Local Charities: Many free displays, like Bentleyville and Kiwanis Holiday Lights, rely on donations to operate. Consider contributing cash or non-perishable food items to support their efforts.
- Capture the Moment: Bring a camera or smartphone to document the lights, especially at displays with designated photo areas like Glow’s sElfie Plaza or the Arboretum’s Honeycrisp apple.
- Combine Visits: Create a holiday lights tour by combining nearby displays. For example, visit Holidazzle and Como Park in one evening, or pair Bentleyville with a drive along Duluth’s scenic Skyline Parkway.
Sample Itinerary for a Twin Cities Holiday Lights Tour:
- Evening 1: Minneapolis – Start with Holidazzle (5:00 PM - 7:00 PM), then visit Como Park Zoo & Conservatory (7:30 PM - 8:00 PM) and Lake Phalen (8:15 PM - 9:00 PM).
- Evening 2: St. Paul & Eagan – Explore Glow Holiday Festival (5:00 PM - 7:00 PM), drive through Summit Avenue (7:30 PM - 8:00 PM), and end with Magic of Lights in Eagan (8:30 PM - 9:30 PM).
- Evening 3: Shakopee & Chaska – Enjoy Sever’s Holiday Lights (5:00 PM - 6:30 PM), then visit Winter Lights at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum (7:00 PM - 9:00 PM).
This itinerary maximizes your time while covering a mix of free, ticketed, walk-through, and drive-through displays. Adjust based on your location and preferences, and check event websites for exact schedules.
Frequently Asked Questions
When do Christmas lights turn on in Minnesota?
Most Christmas light displays in Minnesota begin in mid-November, typically between November 15 and 22, 2025, and run through early January 2026. Major events like Bentleyville Tour of Lights and Glow Holiday Festival open around November 21-22, while neighborhood displays may start earlier. Always check specific event websites for exact dates and times.
Are there any walk-through light shows?
Yes, Minnesota offers several walk-through light shows in 2025. Top options include Bentleyville Tour of Lights in Duluth, Glow Holiday Festival in St. Paul, Winter Lights at Minnesota Landscape Arboretum in Chaska, and Miracle at Big Rock in St. Croix Falls, WI. Local parks like Como Park and Lake Phalen also feature walkable displays, many of which are free.
Can I find a map of all the Christmas lights?
No single official map covers all Minnesota light displays, but community resources like the “Twin Cities Holiday Lights” Facebook group and websites like Give Me The Mike offer crowd-sourced lists and maps. For major events, check official websites for location details, parking information, and directions.
Are there free Christmas light displays in Minnesota?
Absolutely! Free displays include Bentleyville Tour of Lights in Duluth (donations encouraged), Holidazzle in Minneapolis, Kiwanis Holiday Lights in Mankato, and neighborhood displays like Summit Avenue in St. Paul and Linden Hills in Minneapolis. Park displays at Como Park, Lake Phalen, and Centennial Lakes Park are also free.
What are the best drive-through light shows?
Top drive-through displays for 2025 include Sever’s Holiday Lights in Shakopee, Magic of Lights in Eagan, Kiwanis Holiday Lights in Mankato, and Miracle at Big Rock in St. Croix Falls, WI (select nights). These events offer vibrant lights and music, perfect for enjoying from the comfort of your car.
Are there kid-friendly activities at these displays?
Many displays offer kid-friendly activities. Bentleyville provides free hot cocoa and Santa visits, Glow Holiday Festival features a snow slide and zip line, and Holidazzle includes face painting and crafts. Kiwanis Holiday Lights offers a scavenger hunt, and the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum hosts Family Nights with storytelling and cocoa.
How can I stay warm while visiting outdoor displays?
Minnesota winters can be cold, so dress in layers, including thermal clothing, hats, gloves, scarves, and waterproof boots. For walk-through displays, consider hand warmers or portable heaters. For drive-through displays, bring blankets and hot drinks like cocoa or coffee to stay cozy in your car.
Conclusion: Make Your 2025 Holiday Season Sparkle
Minnesota’s 2025 Christmas light displays offer a magical way to celebrate the holiday season, with something for every visitor—whether you’re seeking the grandeur of Bentleyville’s 5 million lights, the interactive fun of Glow Holiday Festival, the cozy drive-through experience of Sever’s Holiday Lights, or the community charm of Summit Avenue’s historic homes. These displays capture the joy, warmth, and togetherness of the holidays, set against Minnesota’s stunning winter landscapes. Use this guide to plan your visits, from major events to hidden neighborhood gems, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Have a favorite light display or a tip to share? Let us know in the comments below, and happy holidays from Minnesota!
