12 Days Of Cheer In Eagan: Making This A December To Remember

The holiday season is officially here, and there’s no shortage of ways to soak up the magic in and around Eagan. To help get you in the spirit, we’ve rounded up a dozen festive ideas you can enjoy throughout the month — each one a fun, joyful way to celebrate the season close to home.

From twinkling light displays and holiday markets to cozy treats, local shopping spots, winter activities and seasonal shows, these 12 picks highlight what makes Eagan feel especially merry this time of year. Whether you check off one or all twelve, it’s all about slowing down, supporting local businesses and making memories.

1. Drive through the shimmering displays at Magic of Lights.

Experience a bright winter tradition at Magic of Lights, open through January 3 at Viking Lakes in Minneapolis. This drive-through event winds guests through LED installations, animated scenes and familiar seasonal characters, all viewed from the comfort of your car. Tickets are available online and are valid anytime within your purchased time frame.

2. Schedule a personalized visit at The Santa Experience.

Plan a more intimate Santa visit at The Santa Experience, open through December 24 at the nearby Mall of America. Families can book timed appointments for a private interaction with Santa, complete with photo opportunities, video options and Christmas merchandise available for purchase. There are also sessions designed specifically for pets and for children with special needs.

3. Glide, spin, and ride at Eagan Civic Arena.

Open year-round but especially fun in the winter season, the Eagan Civic Arena is a great place for family fun (and burning some energy on school breaks). The arena offers Skate Eagan sessions, open hockey and skate school classes, along with ice bumper car rides that spin 360 degrees across the rink. Visitors can join open skate or book bumper car time, with partial-ice availability during select sessions; check the website before you go for the most up-to-date times.

4. Savor a winter evening at Kyndred Hearth.

Enjoy wood-fired dishes and familiar favorites at Kyndred Hearth, located on the first floor of the hotel at Viking Lakes. With chef Ann Kim’s take on comforting classics, the menu spans burgers, pizzas, and pastas, complemented by a full selection of beverages. Guests can settle in for dinner Tuesday through Saturday from 4:30 to 10 p.m., with drinks served until 11 p.m. Reservations are recommended, especially for groups.

5. Warm up with inventive drinks at Curiouser Coffee and Elixirs.

Down the road in Apple Valley, stop into Curiouser Coffee and Elixirs for an all-day café experience that blends creativity and comfort. The shop offers morning coffee, afternoon cocktails and seasonal specialty drinks served in a cozy, imaginative setting. Open daily, Curiouser invites guests to settle in, stay curious and explore flavors ranging from lavender-infused lattes to spiced espresso creations.

6. Treat yourself to freshly made pastries at DC Donuts Dream Cafe.

Drop by DC Donuts Dream Cafe on Diffley Road for fresh donuts and breakfast sandwiches in a relaxed, local setting. The café offers seating for up to 28 guests, making it an easy stop for a sweet break or a quick morning visit. With a rotating selection of fresh pastries, DC Donuts provides a simple, cheerful winter treat for a pick-me-up or your next casual holiday gathering.

7. Wander through glowing gardens at Winter Lights at the Arboretum.

Less than half an hour from Eagan, explore an illuminated landscape at the University of Minnesota Landscape Arboretum’s Winter Lights. Open select evenings through December 31, this walking tour leads guests through botanical-themed displays, glowing tunnels, and indoor exhibits highlighting plant life in winter. New features include a forest of decorated evergreens, along with food offerings, a cozy Warming House and live music on select nights. Purchase your tickets in advance to reserve your spot, especially for themed events like Adults’ Night Out, Family Night and New Year’s Eve.

8. Join an open skate session at Apple Valley Sports Arena.

Looking for a winter weekend activity to get moving and burn energy? Visit the nearby Apple Valley Sports Arena for public skating on Sundays, running through February 22 from 3:30 to 5 p.m. Skaters can take to the ice for $5, with skate rentals available for $3. The arena also hosts seasonal learn-to-skate programs for all ages, following the Learn-to-Skate USA curriculum.

9. Cruise past synchronized lights at Porter’s Holiday Light Show.

While you’re in Apple Valley, stop by Porter’s Holiday Light Show, running November 28 through January 1 at 13596 Hollins Court. More than 20,000 synchronized lights illuminate the neighborhood, with visitors tuning to 87.9 FM to listen along. The display runs nightly from 5 to 9 p.m. (closes 10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays), offering a simple, family-friendly outing close to Eagan.

10. Browse handcrafted gifts at the European Christmas Market.

If you’re headed into Saint Paul, explore the European Christmas Market at Union Depot, open Fridays through Sundays November 28 through December 21. Modeled after traditional European markets, this free event features more than 60 kiosks selling handcrafted ornaments, wool goods, jewelry and seasonal treats. Enjoy festive foods like Glühwein and roasted nuts as you browse the charming venue.

11. See ‘Loyce Houlton’s Nutcracker Fantasy’ at the State Theatre.

Round out an evening in Minneapolis with a classic holiday performance with “Loyce Houlton’s Nutcracker Fantasy,” presented on weekends December 13–21. This local tradition features imaginative choreography and Tchaikovsky’s iconic score, all performed by a cast of student and professional dancers. Purchase your tickets online to secure your seat for this classic holiday show.

12. Step into a historic holiday setting at Christmas in the Village.

Experience early-1900s holiday traditions at Christmas in the Village, held December 6–14 at Dakota County Fairgrounds. The event fills a historic village with lights, music, horse-drawn trolleys and hands-on demonstrations of winter chores. Visitors can warm up with soup or cocoa, shop at the General Store and visit St. Nicholas after mailing a letter at the village post office. Tickets can be purchased online or at the gate; children under 5 years attend free!

Stay warm, shop local and enjoy every twinkling moment — happy holidays, Eagan!

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