Experience the magic of the holidays in Rochester, MN! This season, our city is brimming with joyful celebrations, delightful performances, and free family-friendly fun for all ages. Whether you're seeking cozy traditions or vibrant community events, there's something to make your holiday season truly special. Here are five festive activities in Rochester, MN this year:

Judy Collins at Mayo Civic Center December 18

Experience a merry evening of live entertainment.

Sit back, relax, and enjoy a variety of entertainment in Rochester! Judy Collins: Holiday & Hits Tour comes to Mayo Civic Center December 18. You can also get tickets to see Rochester Civic Theatre’s production of A Christmas Carol: The Musical through December 21, That Theatre Company's production of Jeff on The Shelf: An R-Rated Christmas Comedy through December 21, and many more shows and concerts that can be found on Experience Rochester’s Events Calendar.

Chanukah Extravaganza 2022Chanukah Extravaganza

Enjoy free family activities and movies

Round up the entire family and enjoy FREE holiday activities this season.

Chateau Theatre is hosting a free Winter Workshop on Sunday, December 15 from 11am-2pm with crafts, games and more. Later in the day, Chateau Theatre and Pop’s Art Theater are teaming up to bring a free showing of The Polar Express. The movie starts at 4pm, but get there by 3:30 for storytime with a special surprise guest! 

Celebrate Chanukah with Chabad of Southern Minnesota on December 26 at 5pm at Peace Plaza. Chanukah Extravaganza is free and open to all, and will feature a gelt drop, latkes and donuts, music and more.

Oxbow Park and Zollman Zoo’s annual Zoo Dazzle event is free to attend. The event on December 13 and 14 features visits with Santa, games and crafts, amazing light displays at the zoo, and more. 

Don't forget to ring in the New Year at Experience Rochester's annual "Celebrate Rochester! New Year's Eve" free family event at Mayo Civic Center on December 31, 2024 from 11am-8pm. This huge celebration has indoor roller skating, games for the whole family, a balloon drop at 6pm and local food and beverages.

Jolly Trolley Holiday Lights Tour

Jolly Trolley Holiday Lights Tour | Photo Courtesy Rochester Trolley & Tour Co.

Light up the night on a trolley tour.

If you love looking at Christmas lights, you’ll want to hop aboard the Rochester Trolley and Tour Company’s Jolly Trolley Holiday Lights Tour, which takes passengers around the city of Rochester to view some of the most impressive holiday lights displays in the area. 

Chappies Consignment for DudesChappie's Consignment for Dudes

Find the Perfect Gift.

Rochester has many shopping opportunities all year long. From handmade crafts to locally sourced delicacies, you’re sure to discover something for everyone on your list. Check out our guide to Holiday Gifts You Can Only Find in Rochester, MN or head to some special holiday markets this season, such as the Holiday Craft and Gift Show at Mayo Civic Center December 13-15 or Handmade Holiday Market at The Bench Arts December 13 and 14.

Visit Santa Claus.

Santa Claus will be busy this season visiting the children and pets of Rochester! Legacy Toys will host Santa December 21 from 10am-5pm (appointment required) and he'll be at Apache Mall through December 24 (walk-ups and appointments available.) Pets can have their chance to meet Saint Nick at Apache Mall daily through December 17 from 4-7pm, or at both Rochester PetSmart locations on December 14 and 15 from 2-6pm.

Looking for more? View Experience Rochester’s Events Calendar for more things to do this holiday season or find more winter fun and inspiration here.