Your Guide to Festive Holiday Events in Southeast Minnesota this Weekend

Once Thanksgiving is over and Friday the 25th hits it's officially the holiday season! At least for me, some people already started listening to Christmas music. But whether you've already been in the Christmas mood or you're waiting until after Thanksgiving to celebrate, this weekend is a great time to check out some festive holiday events in southeast Minnesota!

There are plenty of holiday events in the area throughout the holiday season but I know I'm really going to have the itch to kick off the holiday season this weekend by going to a festive event. Here are a few you can check out.

Festival of Trees - Rochester

Friday, November 25th 9 AM - 7 PM

Saturday, November 26th 9 AM - 10 PM
Location: J. Powers at the Hilton, Downtown Rochester

Holiday Stroll - Red Wing

Friday, November 25th 10 AM - 8 PM
Location: multiple businesses throughout Downtown Red Wing

Holiday Window Walk - Winona

Friday, November 25th - Friday, December 16th
Walk along Winona's Main Street to see businesses 'A Christmas Carol' themed window displays.

Kiwanis Holiday Lights - Mankato

*Not technically southeast Minnesota but I can't not include the Kiwanis Holiday Lights drive-thru.
Friday, November 25th - Saturday, December 31st
Sunday - Thursday: 5 - 9 PM
Friday and Saturday: 5 - 10 PM
Location: Sibley Park in Mankato

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Mayowood Christmas Tour - Rochester

Available now through Sunday, December 18th
Tour times:
Wednesday - Friday: 10 AM, 11:30 AM, 1 PM, 2:30 PM
Saturday: 10 AM, 11:30 AM, 1 PM, 2:30 PM, 4 PM
Sunday: 11:30 AM, 1 PM, 2:30 PM
Tickets: Adults (13+) - $25, Kids (3-12) - $10

Parade of Lights - New Ulm

*Ok, it's a little beyond southeast Minnesota but it looks like a cool event!
Friday, November 25th 6 - 7 PM
Location: through historic Downtown New Ulm

Here Comes Santa Claus - Rochester

Saturday, November 26th 2 - 5 PM
2 PM: Santa is reduced by the Rochester Fire Department from the top of Old City Hall
2:30 - 5 PM: Santa's Magical Workshop in Chateau Theater (activities and crafts)
2:45 - 4:15 PM: Photos with Santa (second floor of Galleria at University Square)
3, 3:30, and 4 PM: Storytime with Mrs. Claus in Chateau Theater
5 PM: Tree lighting ceremony at Peace Plaza

Riverwalk Winter Market - Northfield

Saturdays now through December 17th 10 AM - 2 PM
Location: 115 5th St. W in Northfield

Small Business Saturday - everywhere!

Support local small businesses all day during Small Business Saturday on the 26th. Also, you can enter to win a $200 Small Biz Saturday Prize Pack!