For over 50 years, the holiday season in Minnesota was defined by a cherished tradition: a visit to the eighth-floor auditorium of Dayton’s department store. Each winter, this iconic space transformed into an enchanting wonderland, captivating families with dazzling displays, elaborate storybook themes, and festive charm. Twin Cities PBS (TPT) is bringing this beloved tradition back to life in a nostalgic new documentary, “Remember the Magic: A Look Back at the Dayton’s Holiday Shows.”
Photos provided by Twin Cities PBS
Set to premiere on Tuesday, Dec. 17 on TPT and the PBS App, the film offers a heartfelt journey through decades of holiday memories, celebrating one of Minnesota’s most extraordinary festive customs. Featuring rare archival footage, personal reflections, and interviews with the creative minds behind the shows, the documentary captures the artistry and dedication that made Dayton’s holiday displays an essential part of the season.
From intricately designed animatronics to meticulously decorated store windows, the Dayton’s holiday shows were a marvel of creativity and craftsmanship. For many Minnesotans, the annual visit to the eighth floor wasn’t just a shopping trip—it was a magical experience that brought families together and inspired awe in visitors of all ages. Millions of people flocked to see the displays over the years, creating lasting memories that continue to resonate with those who experienced their magic.
The film also delves into the behind-the-scenes creativity, spotlighting the ingenuity and hard work of the artists, designers and craftspeople who brought these displays to life. Viewers will gain an inside look at the meticulous process of creating the animatronics and set pieces that turned the eighth floor into a world of wonder. Through interviews with longtime contributors like Constance Crawford, who worked on the displays for over four decades, the documentary highlights the dedication and love poured into every detail.
Beyond looking back, “Remember the Magic” celebrates ongoing efforts to preserve this treasured history. The documentary features initiatives to restore and preserve the original animatronics, ensuring that these pieces of Minnesota’s cultural heritage can enchant future generations.
“Dayton’s holiday shows were a masterpiece of imagination and tradition that brought the community together in shared wonder,” says Executive Producer Daniel Bergin. “This documentary is both a celebration of those memories and a tribute to the magic makers who inspired so many with their creativity and dedication.”
For those who grew up marveling at Dayton’s displays or those hearing about this tradition for the first time, “Remember the Magic” offers a chance to reflect on the power of shared holiday experiences. As Crawford poignantly notes in the film, “You don’t erase something this dear to people’s heart.”
Don’t miss the chance to revisit—or discover for the first time—the timeless magic of this Minnesota tradition in “Remember the Magic: A Look Back at the Dayton’s Holiday Shows.”
