For Minneapolis, the arrival of the holiday season translates into an abundance of shows and bows. Whether you like comedy, dance or dramatic plays, the city’s theater scene comes alive with shows you’ll enjoy during the holiday season. If you’re struggling to find the perfect gift for that someone special, the city’s many shops are the place to look. Many Minneapolis retailers have unique items that you simply can’t find anywhere else, making them the perfect place to shop any time of year, especially around the holidays.

Can’t-Miss Holiday Activities

Whether you’re looking for family-friendly holiday activities or you want to enjoy the city’s holiday nightlife, you won’t be disappointed with what Minneapolis has to offer. Here are just a few of the holiday activities in Minneapolis you shouldn’t miss in 2017:

• Julglädje: The Swedish word, “Julglädje,” means “Christmas joy” in English. And that’s exactly what you’ll experience at this annual holiday event — pure, unadulterated happiness. Hosted by Ross Sutter, this family-friendly event gives kids of all ages the chance to enjoy holiday tunes from the United States and Sweden. You can also listen to stories told by Rose Arrowsmiht-Decoux. Be prepared to sing, share tales and laugh heartily at this event, which starts at 2 p.m. on Nov. 26 and 1 p.m. on the 27th. Julglädje takes place at the American Swedish Institute, which is located at 2600 Park Avenue in Minneapolis.
• A Christmas Carol: When’s the last time a holiday season passed you by without you watching A Christmas Carol? Don’t settle for watching this perennial favorite on television. Head over to the Guthrie Theater and see a captivating live performance from November 14 through December 30.
• The Hip Hop Nutcracker: The Hip Hop Nutcracker is back this year after a run that was almost completely sold out two years ago. One of our favorite family-friendly holiday activities, you can catch this show at the Ordway Center for the Performing Arts November 21 and 22.
• The New Standards Holiday Show: While this show certainly honors the holiday season, the blatant, hysterical irreverence for which it’s become known over the years makes it inappropriate for younger audience members. So, book a sitter and make plans to catch this show with your adult friends
• Pop-Up Shopping: The holidays are when several merchants literally pop-up in Minneapolis, bringing even more variety to the city’s already wide selection of retailers. From the Linden Hills Holiday Market to Holidazzle, the Northeast Farmers Market and much, much more, you’ll enjoy an authentic experience no matter where you decide to shop in Minneapolis around the holidays.

What do you like to do in Minneapolis during the holiday season? Head over to our social media pages and let us know.