2025 Apple Valley Holiday Guide: Lights, Festive Fun & Good Cheer

The holiday season has arrived in Apple Valley, bringing twinkling lights, cheerful events and plenty of ways to make memories close to home. From light displays to beloved local traditions, here are the hometown holiday highlights you won’t want to miss.

Please note: Dates and details are subject to change, so be sure to check with each organizer before you go — many events require tickets or reservations in advance.

Ray’s Holiday Light Show

When: Now–Jan. 3, 2026 | 5–10 PM Mon-Thurs, 5–11 PM Fri–Sat (closed Sunday)
Where: 12845 Eveleth Ave, Apple Valley, MN

This beloved neighborhood light display features more than 12,000 synchronized lights that guests can tune into on their car radio. The free, drive-by show lets you cruise through with hot cocoa, take in the festive music on 87.9 FM and enjoy the experience without leaving your vehicle. It’s an easy, family-friendly outing that you can take at your own pace.

More info: facebook.com/raysholidaylighshow

Magic of Lights at Viking Lakes

When: Now–Jan. 3, 2026 | 5:30–9 PM Mon–Thurs, 5:30–10 PM Fri–Sun
Where: Viking Lakes, 2685 Vikings Cir., Eagan, MN

Enjoy a drive-through journey filled with towering light tunnels, oversized holiday displays, festive dinosaurs and even a giant illuminated monster truck. This ticketed experience offers a colorful mix of whimsy and wonder, perfect for families or groups. One ticket covers an entire carload, making it a convenient and budget-friendly outing.

More info: magicoflights.com/locations/viking-lake-mn

Making Spirits Bright - Synchronized Light Display

When: Dec. 1–Jan. 2, 2026 | 5 PM–1 AM
Where: Making Spirit Bright, 12728 Durham Way, Apple Valley, MN

This Apple Valley home features a playful mix of synchronized lights, classic blow-molds and giant inflatables like Santa, Bumble and the Grinch. The display blends nostalgic charm with over-the-top whimsy, making it a standout stop for holiday light hunters. The show runs late each night, offering plenty of time to swing by after dinner.

More info: givemethemike.com/mn-holiday-lights-2025

Santa’s Magic Visit to Pahl’s Market

When: Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025 | 10 AM–12 PM
Where: Pahl’s Market, 6885 160th W, Apple Valley MN

Stop by Pahl’s Market for a warm and festive visit with Santa, complete with a special mailbox for kids and pups to drop off their letters to the North Pole. Little ones can whip up their own magical reindeer food to help fuel Santa’s team on Christmas Eve. The cozy atmosphere makes it an easy holiday stop for families, and everyone can enjoy a sweet seasonal cookie before heading back into the winter wonderland.

More info: pahls.com/santas-magical-visit

Post 1776 Children’s Christmas Party

When: Sunday, Dec. 14, 2025 | 1–3 PM
Where: Apple Valley American Legion Post 1776, 14521 Granada Dr, Apple Valley, MN

Celebrate the season with a kid-friendly Christmas party at the American Legion, complete with festive activities and plenty of holiday cheer for local families. This indoor, community-focused event offers a cozy space for little ones to enjoy seasonal fun without worrying about the weather. It’s a great pick for Apple Valley parents looking for an easy, low-key way to get into the holiday spirit.

More info: allevents.in/apple-valley

Velvet Tones Choir Christmas Concert

When: Sunday, Dec. 14, 2025 | 2 PM
Where: Grace Lutheran Church, 7800 150th St. W, Apple Valley, MN

Enjoy an afternoon of classic carols and holiday melodies performed by the Velvet Tones, a beloved senior community choir with a long local history. This family-friendly concert offers a warm, relaxed way to soak in the traditional Christmas spirit without traveling far. Guests can expect a festive mix of nostalgic favorites and joyful harmonies perfect for all ages.

More info: velvettones.org/calendar

CastleCo Theater: A Christmas Carol

When: Saturday and Sundays, Dec. 20–28, 2025 | 1 PM and 4 PM showings
Where: Lakeville Area Arts Center, 20965 Holyoke Ave, Lakeville, MN

Head to nearby Lakeville for CastleCo Theatre’s family-friendly production of A Christmas Carol, which runs at a concise 70 minutes. It’s a great way to introduce kids (or re-introduce adults) to Dickens’ classic, further brought to life by a chorus of carolers dressed in Victorian clothing. Advance tickets are required.

More info: castlecotheatre.org/shows

Enjoy the season, make a few memories close to home and have a happy holiday, Apple Valley!

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