What to do in Minnesota: 4 things to do this weekend (Dec. 1-3)

Santa Claus rides his sleigh during 95th Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade on Nov. 25, 2021 in New York City. (Photo by John Lamparski/Getty Images)

Head to these events to kick off the holiday season.

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Christmas in Germany:

  • Germanic-American Institute, St. Paul
  • Dec. 2-3
  • Free admission

Stop by this event to celebrate Christmas the German way. Toast the season with a beer or warm up with some hot mulled wine, snack on a bratwurst or a pretzel, and finish your day with coffee and a slice of German cake. The Haus will be decorated and there will be music and festive goods for sale. Food and drink will be outdoors in a large heated tent.

Holidays on the Hill:

Head to the Gilded Age mansion of railroad titan James J. Hill to experience Christmas in 1910. Admission includes self-guided access to holiday-themed exhibits and a 60-minute guided tour highlighting holiday stories and memories from both the Hill family and their staff.

Santa's Sweet Celebration:

  • Woodbury Lakes, Woodbury
  • Dec. 2
  • Free admission

Visits with Santa, live reindeer, character meet & greets, holiday craft projects, carolers, trackless train rides and more. Help spread the joy this season by bringing a new, unwrapped toy to donate to Toys for Tots.

Small Business Holiday Passport Event:

  • Various locations, Hugo
  • Nov. 30-Dec. 3
  • Free admission

Knock out some holiday shopping at this event in Hugo's small businesses. Travel to the local businesses listed, get a stamp, collect all stamps and receive a free canvas bag. Participants will also be entered into a drawing for a gift basket valued at over $300.