December in Minneapolis is a festive and vibrant time of year. The city transforms into a winter wonderland, with twinkling lights, festive decorations, and a lively holiday atmosphere.
The first highlight of December in Minneapolis is the annual Holidazzle Parade and Festival. This festive event features over 180 lighted and animated floats, giant balloons, marching bands, and live entertainment, bringing a sense of wonder and enchantment to the city streets.
Another major attraction is the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden, which hosts the Northern Spark Art Festival. This event showcases contemporary art installations, light projections, and interactive experiences, transforming the city into an outdoor art gallery.
In December, Minneapolis offers a variety of holiday-themed events, including:
- The Downtown Holiday Market, featuring local vendors, artisans, and food stalls.
- The Loring Park Wintertime Wonderland, with ice skating, holiday lights, and a carousel.
- The Basilica Block Party, with live music, food, and a festive atmosphere.
- The Twin Cities Winter Jam, featuring snow and ice sculptures, live music, and family-friendly activities.
Weather In Minneapolis During December
During December, Minneapolis, United States has cold, dry weather with occasional snowfall.
Average Temperatures:
- High: 29°F (-1.7°C)
- Low: 16°F (-8.9°C)
Precipitation:
- Average snowfall: 10.7 inches (27.2 cm)
- Average number of days with precipitation: 10
Other Weather Conditions:
- Sunny days: about 10
- Cloudy days: about 10
- Windy days: about 5-7 days with winds exceeding 20 mph
Tips for Staying Warm:
- Wear layers of clothing, including a warm base layer, an insulating mid-layer, and a waterproof outer layer.
- Cover your head, ears, hands, and feet with hats, gloves, and warm socks.
- Avoid spending long periods of time outdoors, especially during the evening and early morning hours.
- If possible, stay in heated areas or use public transportation to minimize exposure to the cold.
Things To Do In Minneapolis In December
December Festivals and Celebrations in Minneapolis:
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Holidazzle: (Late November - Late December) A festive holiday market and light display in Loring Park featuring vendors, live music, and ice sculptures.
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Minneapolis Holiday Market: (Early November - Late December) An indoor market in the IDS Center with over 100 vendors selling unique gifts, decorations, and food.
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Saint Paul Winter Carnival: (Held in Saint Paul, a neighboring city) The largest winter carnival in the United States, featuring ice sculptures, snow carving competitions, live music, and family-friendly activities.
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Nordic Christmas Bazaar: (Mid-December) A celebration of Scandinavian culture at the American Swedish Institute, with traditional food, crafts, and performances.
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Santa Land: (Late November - Late December) A holiday-themed experience at the Mall of America, featuring a visit with Santa Claus, a Christmas village, and light shows.
December Attractions and Activities:
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Visit the Stone Arch Bridge: This historic bridge offers stunning views of the Mississippi River and skyline, especially when illuminated with holiday lights.
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Explore the Guthrie Theater: The Guthrie Theater stages world-class plays and musicals throughout the year. Check their production schedule for December performances.
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Attend a Minnesota Orchestra Concert: The Minnesota Orchestra offers live performances of classical music at Orchestra Hall in downtown Minneapolis.
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Go Ice Skating at the Oval: The Oval is a large outdoor skating rink in downtown Minneapolis, perfect for a festive holiday outing.
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See a Performance at the Hennepin Theatre Trust: This historic theater hosts a variety of live performances, including plays, musicals, and dance shows. Check their website for December offerings.
Tourism In Minneapolis, United States During December
In the heart of the Midwest, Minneapolis transforms into a winter wonderland during December, captivating visitors with its festive charm. Holiday markets and festive events fill the streets, exuding a spirit of warmth and cheer.
The vibrant Mall of America, the largest shopping mall in the United States, offers a dazzling array of holiday shopping experiences. From twinkling lights to snow-covered displays, the mall transforms into a festive paradise.
The city’s cultural institutions embrace the season with special exhibitions and performances. The Walker Art Center showcases seasonal artworks, while the Guthrie Theater stages enchanting holiday productions.
In the historic Mill District, visitors can explore the Stone Arch Bridge and marvel at the frozen beauty of the Mississippi River. Along the riverfront, festive pop-up shops offer unique gifts and treats.
For an immersive holiday experience, the Winter Village at the Commons offers ice skating, cozy fire pits, and holiday-themed entertainment. The city also hosts a variety of outdoor markets featuring local vendors selling handcrafted gifts, delicious food, and festive décor.
As darkness descends, Minneapolis illuminates its streets with festive lights and projections. The Holidazzle parade showcases vibrant floats and marching bands, while the mesmerizing Northern Lights display transforms buildings into a captivating canvas of colors.