Find Your Festive Spirit at Winter Markets & Holiday Events

The air is crisp, the lights are twinkling, and the holiday season is just around the corner! There’s no better way to get into the festive spirit, find one-of-a-kind gifts, and make lasting memories than by visiting the charming winter markets and community celebrations right here in the Twin Cities Gateway.

From bustling craft fairs filled with local artisans to magical tree-lighting ceremonies, our communities are lighting up with holiday cheer. Grab your stocking cap and a warm drink—here’s your guide to the must-visit holiday happenings this season.

For the Perfect Handmade Gift: Holiday Craft Markets

Skip the big box stores and find something truly special from hundreds of local makers, crafters, and artisans.

• Shoreview: Indoor Market
  • When: Tuesday, Nov. 18 & Saturday, Dec. 13
  • Where: Shoreview Community Center (Fireside Lounge)
  • What to Expect: An extension of the beloved farmers market, this cozy indoor event is perfect for stocking up on local goods. Find artisan foods like soups and breads, handmade jewelry, cozy sweater mittens from Season’s Traditions, and beautifully crafted wooden items from Sandberg Woodshop.
• Ramsey: 5th Annual Holidazzle Craft & Gift Expo
  • When: Saturday, Nov. 22 & Sunday, Nov. 23 (10:00 AM – 3:00 PM daily)
  • Where: Lord of Life Church
  • What to Expect: This is a shopper’s paradise! This huge two-day event features over 100 boothsoverflowing with handmade crafts, artisan goods, and unique boutique finds. Look for everything from seasonal décor and woodwork to laser-engraved gifts, gourmet chocolates, jams, pet apparel, and personalized treasures.
• Blaine: 2nd Annual Light Up The Night Outdoor Christmas Market
  • When: Saturday, Nov. 29 (2:00 PM – 8:00 PM)
  • Where: Twin Cities Harley-Davidson
  • What to Expect: Bundle up for a magical outdoor evening market! Browse unique gifts, handmade crafts, and festive décor under the glow of holiday lights. Vendors light up their own booths, creating a sparkling atmosphere. Grab a bite from a food truck and enjoy a truly unique shopping experience.
• Fridley: Holiday Maker’s Market at Forgotten Star Brewing
  • When: Saturdays, Dec. 6, 13 & 20 (12:00 PM – 6:00 PM)
  • Where: Forgotten Star Brewing
  • What to Expect: Sip while you shop! This festive market inside a popular brewery features dozens of local vendors and artisans. It’s the perfect place to find a unique gift while enjoying a craft beer, hot chocolate, or the cozy tradition of “beer poking” by the fire.
• Anoka: Christmas Market
  • When: Saturday, Dec. 20
  • Where: Green Haven Golf Club
  • What to Expect: Discover treasures from more than 40 vendors at this festive market. It’s the perfect place to find cozy knitted goods, handmade jewelry, woodworking, bakery treats, and so much more.

For Community Cheer: Tree Lightings & Family Fun

Experience the magic of the season with these heartwarming community celebrations, perfect for the whole family.

• New Brighton: Winter Park Discovery Night – Santa Edition
  • When: Thursday, Dec. 4 (5:00 PM – 8:00 PM)
  • Where: Freedom Park
  • What to Expect: Parks aren’t just for summer! This free event proves it. Gather for a community bonfire, visit with Santa, see a live reindeer exhibit, and enjoy a petting zoo. There will also be crafts, hot chocolate, cookies, and a toy drive for Operation Joy.
• Mounds View: Inaugural Holiday Tree Lighting
  • When: Friday, Dec. 5 (4:00 PM – 7:00 PM)
  • Where: Mounds View City Hall Park
  • What to Expect: Be a part of a brand-new tradition! This festive event includes a visit from Santa, hot cocoa, roasting s’mores by the fire, and hot dogs from the Mounds View Police Foundation. The official countdown to light the tree begins at 6:00 PM!
• Anoka: 35th Annual Tree Lighting
  • When: Saturday, Dec. 6 (3:00 PM – 7:00 PM)
  • Where: Anoka City Hall River Plaza
  • What to Expect: This is a hallmark holiday event! The festivities include visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus, live reindeer, a petting zoo, horse-drawn trolley rides, carolers, and cozy bonfires. The whole community counts down to the official tree lighting at 5:55 PM.
• Ham Lake: Hometown Holiday
  • When: Saturday, Dec. 6 (3:00 PM – 6:00 PM)
  • Where: Ham Lake Lions Park & Senior Center
  • What to Expect: Get ready for an afternoon of pure holiday joy. This event features visits with Santa, ornament decorating, hot chocolate, caroling, and the official community tree lighting to ring in the season.
• Coon Rapids: Tree Lighting Festival
  • When: Saturday, Dec. 13
  • Where: Boulevard Plaza
  • What to Expect: A classic holiday celebration! This free event is packed with family fun. Enjoy hot cocoa and cookies, listen to live music, cozy up by a bonfire, and, of course, get a photo with Santa. The evening culminates with a spectacular fireworks display at 5:30 PM.

For a Unique Holiday Adventure

Looking for something a little different? These events offer a fun twist on holiday traditions.

• Anoka: Stocking Stroll
  • When: Saturday, Dec. 13 & Sunday, Dec. 14
  • Where: Downtown Anoka
  • What to Expect: This ticketed event is a shopper’s dream! For $40, you get a “Stroll Bag” and visit 15 participating downtown boutiques. At each stop, you’ll receive a special gift (with a total value of over $100!) to fill your bag. It’s a wonderfully unique way to explore the charming shops of historic downtown Anoka.
• Shoreview: Holiday Tea
  • When: Wednesday, Dec. 17 (1:00 PM – 3:00 PM)
  • Where: Shoreview Community Center
  • What to Expect: Join a delightful afternoon of socializing over an assortment of tea and desserts. The event features a special performance by the North Suburban Chorus. (Note: Pre-registration is required for this popular event!)
• New Brighton: Winter Gnome Search
  • When: Thursday, Dec. 18 – Tuesday, Jan. 6
  • Where: Silver Oaks Park
  • What to Expect: Get the family outdoors for a whimsical scavenger hunt! Search for 15 gnomes hidden throughout Silver Oaks Park. It’s a fun, free activity to keep everyone active this winter. Snap a photo with a gnome and post it with #newbrightongnomes for a chance to win a prize!
• Anoka: Merry Grinchmas
  • When: Thursday, Dec. 19 (4:00 PM – 7:00 PM)
  • Where: Downtown Anoka
  • What to Expect: Keep your eyes peeled for a little bit of mischief! The Grinch himself will be roaming the streets of downtown Anoka. It’s the perfect, quirky photo opportunity and a fun way to add some spirited fun to your evening shopping.

No matter which event you choose, you’re sure to find warmth, joy, and the unique spirit of our Twin Cities Gateway communities. Happy holidays!