The Twin Cities Area in Minnesota has become somewhat of a household name to view some of the best Christmas light displays in the United States. There are both drive-through and walk-through illuminations to make your Christmas truly unforgettable. Since the pandemic started, it has put a major dampener on festivities of any kind, but humans are learning to adjust to life now. Christmas is something you simply cannot give up, even for COVID-19. With precautions and social distancing, there are ways to enjoy light displays, largely in open-air areas.
Just for the Love of Christmas
The people of Minnesota are awesome in this respect. They adore the holidays and put up these spectacular light displays, not for monetary benefit, but because they want to share the joy of Christmas with others. Some folks do raise money for charities of their choice, and it’s all a very “giving” affair in keeping with the spirit of the season. Every year, they get out in the cold of Minnesota (and it’s mighty cold) and, with great vigor and enthusiasm, put up those lights. Below you will find most of the superb light displays worth getting out in the cold for.
Lights at the Governor’s House
The Governor’s residence at St. Paul is the seat of Christmas, Twin Cities style. At the front of the house stands a tree, 25-feet tall, and a 400-foot garland. There are at least 15,000 multi-colored lights on display and the whole scene looks like a magnificent magical garden. You can take a self-tour, but small donations are welcome.
The Glow of the Holiday Festival
Aptly called “Glow”, the display of lights at the State Fairgrounds is something to take in. You can drive through the mile-long dozen or more scenes of the holiday, each featuring intricately woven-in lighting. There are a million lights here, no mistake. There is also a 100-foot illuminated Christmas tree, as well as unique icicle installations, a glorious gingerbread house and other must-see attractions. You can buy some great Christmas goodies at the end of your tour in a grand theme park of Christmas charm.
Home on Lyndale
Here, lights are put up by homeowners, and they are a sight to behold, as you wonder how these innovative light extravaganzas capture your attention.
https://holidaylightslynda.wixsite.com/holidaylightslyndale
Other Light Displays
Rice Park has some beautiful light walk-through areas and drive-through ones too. Explore more lights at the Union Depot, where the tree is lit (virtual viewing only) on December 4. After this, you can drive by the North Plaza to see one of the most popular Christmas light displays in Minnesota.
https://www.visitsaintpaul.com/blog/best-places-to-see-holiday-lights-in-saint-paul/
