Friday, December 15
Swedish Feast
What: Julbord—Swedish Christmas Feast
Where: American Swedish Institute, 2600 Park Ave., Minneapolis
When: 6:30–8:30 p.m.
More commonly known as a Christmas smorgasbord, the Scandinavian Julbord is a great way to engage with family, friends, and lots of food. Christmas ham with mustard, pickled beets, and delicious desserts only name a few of the items on the evening’s menu. If you come early to dinner, take time to peruse the museum as well. Learn more.
Reminiscing down Summit Avenue
What: Christmas Traditions Guided House Tour
Where: James J. Hill House, 240 Summit Ave., St. Paul
When: 10 a.m.–3:30 p.m.
Go back in time to the 1890s this holiday season. Here, you will learn how Summit Avenue celebrated Christmas and New Year’s in the time of railroad mogul James J. Hill—through stories, family letters, journal entries, and old pictures in his mansion. Each tour lasts approximately one hour. Learn more.
Saturday, December 16
Décor and Dining Perfection
What: Holiday Hosting Class
Where: FireLake Grill House & Cocktail Bar, 31 S. 7th St., Minneapolis
When: 1–3 p.m.
As Christmas parties pile up, you’ll be glad you attended this class. Not only will you gain insight from executive chef Keven Kvalsten’s cooking mastery, but you will also enjoy a glass of wine while eating his three-course meal. There will be time to tuck away tips on décor and drinks, and you’ll bring recipes home with you, too. Learn more.
Last Call!
What: The Procrastinator’s Market
Where: The Former Brentwood Village Shopping Center, 1300 Rhode Island Ave. NE, Minneapolis
When: 10 a.m.–8 p.m.
It’s not too late to start shopping for your loved ones this season. Featuring local merchants and food trucks, shop tent to tent outside. You’ll enjoy live entertainment, the holiday-card making station, and a chance for your family to write and mail a letter to Santa. Remember to wear your ugly holiday sweater for a chance to win prizes. Learn more.
Sunday, December 17
Sipping Cider
What: MN Cider Tasting: MN Cider Guild Open House
Where: Birchwood Café, 3311 E. 25th St., Minneapolis
When: 4–6:30 p.m.
While chatting with cider enthusiasts like yourself—including the makers behind some of our local cideries—nibble on snacks and learn all you’ve never thought to learn about craft cider. You’ll also be able to sample some apple goodness from Milk & Honey Ciders, Urban Forage, Sweetland Orchard, Yellow Belly, and more. Learn more.
BYOD(og)
What: Holiday Market
Where: Inbound Brewco, 701 N. 5th St., Minneapolis
When: Noon–6 p.m.
Whether a friend or a pet is left on your holiday shopping list, local vendors will have something for you. For just a $5 donation to 4 Pits Sake Rescue, a dog rescue and rehabilitation non-profit, you and your dog can have your photo taken with Santa. Didn’t get enough puppy love? Check out the adoptable dog-kissing booth. Learn more.
