Series

The Nutcracker is playing on many stages across the Twin Cities from professional productions to studio shows, but only one has been on stage for 60 years. ?Nutcracker Fantasy? was choreographed by renowned Minnesota choreographer and founder of Minnesota Dance Theatre, Loyce Houlton. This year, the production features more than 100 dancers from several studios paired with professional dancers. They are accompanied by a 44-piece orchestra. The show runs from December 14th through the 22nd at State Theatre. Tickets can be purchased through Ticketmaster or the State Theatre box office.

Come for the lights, stay for the crafts! Roger Schmidt grew up loving his neighbors light display. They even handed out candy. And that inspired him to do something similar. His light display started coming together in 1998. Now it fills the entire front and back yard and he has plans to spill over into two neighbors yards, who have given him permission. He created a walk-through experience that includes a stop in the garage where there are several tables set up with crafting supplies for kids, plus cookies, hot cocoa, and coffee. It is free to visit. Lights turn on at 5pm nightly through the 31st and crafts begin at 5:30pm. Some nights Santa appears in the Santa hut they built off the front porch. The home is located at 921 Shakopee Avenue East and there?s a Facebook page called ?Shakopee Winter Wonderland.?

The countdown is on to finish your holiday shopping, and we are getting some help. Stephanie March shares her favorite markets and pairs them with places to stop and grab a bite or a drink. Plus, she shares some of her favorite items for the foodie in your life. We also get some tips for not avoiding difficult conversations during the holidays but having them respectfully. Chenue also gives us the details on Dayton's Holiday Market.

On this cold day warm up with some music, the Piano Brothers play some holiday music ahead of their special concerts. And we get a look at some of the baby names that could be trendy next year. Plus, Dale K highlights a non-profit that is helping bring new life to flowers used for weddings and other events.

Macaroons, gingerbread houses, and salted caramels are on the menu in this holiday episode of Taste Buds.

Sauna season is in full effect, and there?s some unlikely spots to get a steam session in. Pryes Brewing has opened sauna cabanas on their patio, with four Nordic saunas from Superior Sauna & Steam that are available to rent for private parties as well as community steam experiences. The cabanas also include cold showers and private bonfire lounges, while an "event sauna" can also hold 20 people. To pair with the steam, Pryes has created a sauna beer called Kallio and a hydrating NA option called Hop Water.

It's cold! We have you covered with some cozy gifts perfect for the holidays. Also, Hannah Flood breaks down some new laws going into effect in the new year. Plus, we get some etiquette reminders ahead of the holidays and tips for your New Year's resolutions.

Garden Guy Dale K. offers his easy advice to care for your seasonal holiday plants.

Childcare issues are causing more parents to miss work, or stay out of the workforce. Plus, Garden Guy Dale K. offers his useful tips to keep your holiday plants looking their best. Also, beauty stocking stuffers that won't break the bank.

Ahmad Hicks breaks down the viral Vikings dance from Sunday's game. Plus should you add your run times to your resume? A psychologist offers some tips for dealing with holiday stress and the winter blues. Katie Heruth from Minnesota Parent shares some of her favorite indoor playgrounds for the cooler temperatures. And we get some tips for simple stretches at home that can help you stay active in the winter months.