Minneapolis Shines This Holiday Season
Minneapolis' holiday traditions include lots of local shopping with unique Minneapolis touches.
Dayton’s Holiday Market features more than 100 local makers and brands, nostalgic food and beverage options from Nov. 12 through Dec.24 inside the historic Dayton’s Project (former department store) building in downtown Minneapolis at 700 Nicollet. One highlight is the tradition of Santabear, a Dayton's staple of the holiday season in the past, that was brought back with a new theme each year. For 2026, along with the standard holiday themed bear, shoppers can purchase a limited-edition Mary Tyler Moore Santabear inspired by the beloved actress who brought the unforgettable Mary Richards to life on the classic TV sitcom based in Minneapolis, “The Mary Tyler Moore Show," and the outfit worn by Mary in the show’s opening credits – the infamous hat-tossing scene shot outside Dayton’s. Ten percent of the proceeds will benefit the Mary Tyler Moore Vision Initiative.
Shine on Minneapolis kicks off with a free block party on Nicollet Mall on Nov. 27, from 5 – 10 p.m. with an evening of activities, music, and community celebration featuring an artist-designed holiday tree, a Minneapolis Farmer's Market-hosted Christmas tree lot open on weekends and other events throughout the season.
Visitors can experience Four Seasons Hotel Minneapolis and its iconic Nordic Village for its 5-year anniversary. The hotel transforms their outdoor terrace into an enchanting Scandinavian-inspired destination for memorable dining, celebrations, and winter gatherings. With views of the city skyline, Nordic Village features boutique-decorated cabins and a cozy dining experience that's become an annual favorite for wintertime in the city.
Additionally, the hotel's annual Nordic Winter Market, features local artisans showcasing Minnesota-made, handcrafted art, jewelry, goods, apparel and more with a rotating lineup of vendors on Saturdays and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
