Midwest Holiday Festivals

Discover the magic of the holiday season. Make memories to last a lifetime.

Hop on a sleigh, explore European style markets, or spectacular Christmas light displays. A winter wonderland awaits in the Midwest. We’ve got a list of some of the best festivals to make this holiday season one to remember.

Christkindlmarket Chicago, Aurora, Chicago, Wrigleyville-November 18-December 31-The most authentic traditional holiday market of its kind outside of Europe, offers a unique experience for the whole family. Modeled after 16th-century holiday market in Nuremberg Germany, the market has become so popular, it expanded to three locations. Activities and hours vary by location. Admission is free.

New Glarus Christkindli Market, New Glarus, WI-December 2-4-Enjoy horse drawn sleigh rides, live caroling, a visit with Santa and more in the charming Swiss village. Locally sourced food and drink vendors, including, New Glarus Brewing Co..

European Christmas Market at Union Depot, Saint Paul, MN-November 25-December 18, weekends. Discover old world elegance at Minnesota’s largest European inspired open-air market. The historic Union Depot provides the perfect backdrop for a variety of family fun activities all season. Learn more about holiday happenings in Saint Paul to keep you busy all winter long!

Excelsior Christkindlsmarkt, Excelsior, MN-November 25-27 weekends. Ride an old fashioned streetcar and visit with Father Christmas on your way to the European style market, filled with something for everyone to get into the holiday spirit.

Stillwater Hometown for the Holidays,Stillwater, MN-December2-17, weekends. Take a stroll through the historic streets of Stillwater, the birthplace of Minnesota. A Twinkle Weekend kicks of the festivities intros picturesque village complete with Victorian carolers.

Holiday Tree Lighting & Holiday Open House, Madison, WI-November 25-December, weekends. Explore the charming capitol city to find family fun all season long! Enjoy carolers, night markets and lakeside ice skating. Visit the state capitol building to see the festive holiday tree and watch the 98th annual Capitol Christmas Pageant Sunday, December 4th at 4:15 or 5:15.

Bentleyville Tour of Lights, Duluth, MN-November 19th-December 26th-What began as a home light display by Nathan Bentley in Esko, MN grew and eventually moved the display to Duluth in 2009. Each year since, it’s become bigger and brighter, shining on the shores of Lake Superior.

Minnesota Landscape Arboretum Winter Lights, Chaska, MN-November 17-January 1st-Roast s’mores after exploring the spectacular lights and live music on select nights. Discover more links to winter fun in the gopher state at Explore Minnesota.

Ice Castles-Building of the magnificent Ice Castles is already underway due to the cold temperatures here in the Midwest. Explore ice slides and caves after taking a sleigh ride to the castle. Tickets go on sale November 28th for locations in New Brighton, MN and Lake Geneva, WI. Event dates and hours depend on weather. Bundle up for this activity!