Finals may be lurking around the corner, but that’s no excuse to stay inside and act like the Grinch. Relieve stress and ring in the holiday season by checking out all the events that the Twin Cities metro area has to offer.
With two holiday markets, a cappella showcases and cult movie showings, you’re sure to find an event to fit your schedule.
December Improv Show
If you have the entire “Saturday Night Live” Christmas special memorized already, give the local improv scene a chance. The University of Minnesota’s Long-Form Improv team will host its monthly performance on the first of the month. Long-Form Improv deviates from the traditional, short sketch format to build a longer story.
Where: Bell Museum, 10 Church St SE, Minneapolis
When: December 1, 7-9 p.m.
Cost: $3/person, $5/two people
CSE Winter Light Show
A step up from the string lights many students hang in their dorms and the average yard display, the annual College of Science and Engineering Winter Light Show features over 250,000 LED lights and original music. Most of the light design and music is composed by students, making the show a fun, flashy way to start your weekend.
Where: Civil Engineering Building, 500 Pillsbury Drive SE, Minneapolis
When: December 1, 2, 7, 8 and 9, 5:30-6:30 p.m.
Cost: Free
Holiday Flower Show Opening Weekend
Get ready to snap all the festive Instagram posts you want. The Como Park Zoo will transform its conservatory into a pink, red and white wonderland of holiday poinsettias. If you’re looking to get the best photos, the conservatory also offers early hours for photographers on December 2, 9, 10 and 17 for $5 per person.
Where: Como Park Zoo & Conservatory
When: December 2 and 3, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Cost: Free, voluntary donation encouraged
Linden Hills Holiday Market
The winter months are filled with shopping opportunities, and the Linden Hills Holiday Market gives you the chance to support local businesses by combining the shopping options of the Minneapolis Craft Market and the Linden Hills Farmers Market. Pick up handmade gifts for family (or yourself), and enjoy snacks ranging from paella to waffles.
Where: Sunnyside Gardens, 3723 44th St W, Minneapolis
When: Every Sunday through December 17, 9 a.m.-2 p.m.
7Days A Cappella Presents: Ugly Sweater Weather
Many of the on-campus a cappella groups host December showcases, but how many encourage you to wear your favorite ugly holiday sweater? 7Days A Cappella plans on spreading its holiday musical cheer while donning everyone’s favorite holiday look, so be sure to head to Goodwill beforehand to pick up a new ugly sweater for the occasion.
Where: Coffman Memorial Union, 300 Washington Ave SE, Minneapolis
When: December 16, 7-8:30 p.m.
Cost: $3 for students, $5 for non-students
Strange Girls Holiday Night Market
A Conspiracy of Strange Girls, a local artist collective, combines the best parts of a night out and holiday shopping. With DJs and 30 local artists, their Holiday Night Market is the ideal way to get into the holiday spirit while immersing yourself in the Twin Cities art scene.
Where: Modist Brewing Company, 505 N 3rd St, Minneapolis
When: December 16, 6-11:59 p.m.
Cost: Free
