Christmas Markets Minnesota 2024: A Festive Guide for Shoppers

Looking for a magical holiday experience in Minnesota this year? You’re in luck. Minnesota’s Christmas markets for 2024 are set to bring joy and festive cheer to everyone.

With vibrant stalls, traditional treats, and unique gifts, you can feel the holiday spirit in every corner.

So, where do you find the best Christmas markets? From the well-known European Christmas Market in St. Paul to charming pop-up markets featuring local artisans, there’s something for everyone.

These markets not only offer delightful shopping but also family-friendly entertainment and cultural activities that capture the essence of the holiday season.

1) Minneapolis Christmas Market

If you’re hunting for holiday cheer, the Minneapolis Christmas Market is the place to be. The market offers a blend of festive sights, sounds, and tastes that will surely get you into the holiday spirit.

Held at Nicollet Mall, the Winter Maker’s Market features 78 independent vendors.

These vendors showcase everything from handmade crafts to delightful holiday treats.

You’ll find gift shopping a joy here, with numerous heritage brands from across Minnesota.

It’s the perfect spot to pick up unique, handcrafted items that you won’t find anywhere else.

Throughout the market, you can also enjoy live entertainment. This includes music performances that add to the festive atmosphere, making it a memorable outing for the whole family.

Market Details

Dates	Address	Times	Prices	Links
Now – Dec 30	Nicollet Mall	Mon-Sat: 10am-6pm, Sun: 11am-5pm	Free Admission	Minneapolis Holiday Markets

2) European Christmas Market

At the European Christmas Market in St. Paul, you’ll find a magical holiday experience that combines the charm of European traditions with local flair.

Located at Union Depot’s East Plaza, this market offers an array of vendors. You can shop for unique gifts, savor delicious European-style foods, and enjoy live entertainment.

Kids will love Santa’s Village. It features activities like gingerbread decorating and ornament painting.

There’s also a holiday carousel and a train ride, making it perfect for families.

Parking at Union Depot is convenient with lots C & D nearby. Parking costs $10, so plan accordingly.

This market spans four weekends, starting after Thanksgiving and ending just before Christmas. Be sure to mark your calendar and bring the whole family for a festive outing.

Dates	Address	Times	Prices	Links
Nov 29 – Dec 22, 2024	East Plaza at Union Depot	Varies	$10 parking	European Christmas Market

3) Christkindlsmarkt Excelsior

Christkindlsmarkt Excelsior is a must-visit if you’re in Minnesota around Thanksgiving weekend. Think cozy stalls, twinkling lights, and festive cheer. This German-style market has been charming visitors since 1990.

It kicks off with a Grand Parade led by the Golden Angel, Christkind, and Miss Minnesota.

You can expect a fun day filled with music from the Minnetonka High School Choir, live reindeer, and more.

Booths offer a range of goodies. From handmade ornaments to unique toys, every corner has something special.

And, of course, there are plenty of yummy treats like roasted nuts and warm cider.

Families will love seeing Santa, going on pony rides, and enjoying a ride on the North Pole Trolley. The market makes sure there’s plenty of holiday spirit for everyone.

Don’t forget to grab a pretzel or bratwurst while you browse. The German influence really shines through the food and drink options.

Make sure to check the schedule so you don’t miss any of the special events or performances. It’s a great way to start your holiday season.

Dates	Address	Times	Prices
Nov 29 – Dec 1	Excelsior East Public Parking	Fri-Sat: 10 AM – 7 PM	Free entry
Visit Site

4) Union Depot Holiday Market

The Union Depot Holiday Market in Saint Paul is a must-visit event this season. Located at the historic Union Depot, it offers a magical atmosphere.

You can explore a variety of stalls featuring local artisans and makers. There’s a wonderful mix of handcrafted goods, unique gifts, and festive decorations.

You’ll also find delicious food and drinks. Try traditional European treats, hot cocoa, and more.

It’s a great place to bring family and friends. The holiday spirit is contagious, with live music and entertainment.

Kids will love the Holiday Train and Carousel. There are also craft activities for them to enjoy.

The market runs for four weekends starting after Thanksgiving. Each weekend promises something special.

Plan your visit and enjoy everything this holiday market has to offer. You’ll find something for everyone on your list. Don’t miss out on this festive event in Saint Paul.

Dates	Address	Times	Prices
November 24 – December 17, 2024	214 4th Street East, Saint Paul, MN 55101	10:00 AM – 4:00 PM	Free entry

Visit the Union Depot Holiday Market for more details.

5) Linden Hills Holiday Market

The Linden Hills Holiday Market is a must-visit in Minneapolis. It transforms Sunnyside Gardens into a festive wonderland.

This market runs every Sunday from November 4 to December 23. You’ll find over 60 rotating food and craft vendors.

With tasty treats and unique gifts, it’s perfect for holiday shopping. You can even bring your dog!

Enjoy the holiday spirit with winter decor and a Christmas tree lot.

Dates	Address	Times	Prices	Links
Nov. 4 – Dec. 23	3723 44th St. W., Minneapolis, MN	9 am – 2 pm	Free	Linden Hills Holiday Market

6) GLOW Holiday Festival

If you’re in Minnesota around the holidays, you can’t miss the GLOW Holiday Festival. This event is packed with over a million twinkling lights.

It takes place at CHS Field in St. Paul. Each year, it draws in crowds from all over.

You and your family can stroll through the Enchanted Forest. It’s full of beautiful lights and fun surprises.

Don’t forget the Selfie Plaza where you can snap holiday photos.

The festival is cashless, so bring your credit or debit card.

Entry times are reserved every hour starting at 5:00 PM each night. This helps to manage the crowd and make your visit more enjoyable.

GLOW Holiday Festival also gives back to the community. Since 2020, it has donated nearly $350,000 to local charities.

It’s a festive way to get into the holiday spirit while supporting a good cause.

Dates	Address	Times	Prices	Links
Nov. 16 – Dec. 31, 2023	360 N. Broadway St., St. Paul, MN 55101	Starting at 5:00 PM	Varies, check website	GLOW Holiday Festival

7) Holidazzle

Holidazzle is a beloved holiday market held in downtown Minneapolis. It brings together people of all ages to celebrate the winter season with local food, art, and entertainment.

You’ll find plenty of free activities, including ice skating and live music. Local vendors offer unique gifts, perfect for holiday shopping.

Established in 1992, Holidazzle is a longstanding tradition.

You can expect fireworks, festive light displays, and even visits from Santa Claus. It’s a great event for families, friends, and anyone looking to enjoy the holiday spirit in Minneapolis.

Dates	Address	Times	Prices	Links
November 22-24	Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis	5 PM – 9 PM	Free	Holidazzle

Visit the Holidazzle Minneapolis website for more details.

8) Duluth Winter Village

Duluth Winter Village is a must-visit for anyone in Minnesota during the holiday season. This festive event takes place at the Duluth Entertainment Convention Center (DECC), offering an outdoor experience filled with holiday cheer.

You can stroll through a charming village setup, complete with festive greens and local shops. Enjoy hot drinks while you explore the various vendors.

The event’s backdrop includes stunning views of Lake Superior and the iconic Lift Bridge.

Fire pits are strategically placed throughout the village to keep you warm. Skating is available from 3-5 pm, adding to the magical atmosphere. This event is not just for shopping; it’s a full holiday experience.

With 1.2K people interested and many planning to attend, Duluth Winter Village is definitely a highlight. Best of all, there’s no admission fee. Whether you’re looking for unique gifts or just want to soak in the holiday spirit, this event is perfect.

Dates	Address	Times	Prices	Website
December 7, 2024	DECC, Duluth, MN	10 am – 5 pm	Free	Duluth Winter Village

9) Rice Park Winter Skating Rink

Breathe in the cold, crisp air as you glide across the ice at Rice Park Winter Skating Rink in Saint Paul. This outdoor rink sits in the heart of the city, right next to the historic Landmark Center.

Skating is free, and you can rent skates for just $2 each. Wells Fargo customers can score free skate rentals by showing their check or credit card.

Twinkling lights and the beautiful Rice Park surroundings add a magical touch to the experience. After skating, warm up with a cup of hot chocolate from the nearby warming house.

Rice Park Winter Skating Rink is easily accessible from Hwy 94 or 35E via the Kellogg Blvd exit. This makes it a convenient spot for both locals and visitors. Enjoy the festive atmosphere and make some winter memories.

Dates	Address	Times	Prices	Links
November 2024 – February 2025	Rice Park, Saint Paul, MN	Varies, check the website	Free skating, $2 skate rental (free for Wells Fargo customers)	Rice Park Winter Skating Rink

10) Bachman’s Holiday Ideas House

At Bachman’s Holiday Ideas House, you can explore unique holiday decor and design ideas. The house is beautifully decorated to offer inspiration for your own home.

You can tour this festive house to gather fresh ideas for your decorating. Each room has a different theme, making it an exciting experience.

The Holiday Ideas House is open daily from November 10 to December 18. Time slots for self-guided tours are available in 30-minute increments.

Tickets can be purchased online or by phone. A portion of the ticket sales is donated to a local charity, making your visit meaningful.

Schedule and Details

Dates	Address	Times	Prices	Links
Nov 10 – Dec 18	6010 Lyndale Ave S, Minneapolis, MN	Mon-Wed, Fri: 10 AM – 5:30 PM Thur: 10 AM – 6:30 PM Sat-Sun: 10 AM – 3:30 PM	Purchase required	Bachman’s Holiday Ideas House