For generations of Minnesotans, the holiday season wasn’t complete without a trip to Dayton’s 8th floor auditorium—an annual tradition where imagination, storytelling and artistry came together in spectacular fashion. This December, Twin Cities PBS invites audiences to rediscover that cherished wonder with a special broadcast of “Remember the Magic: A Look Back at the Dayton’s Holiday Shows,” airing on TPT 2 on Dec. 1 at 8:30 p.m. The film is also available to stream for free on the PBS App and the Twin Cities PBS YouTube channel.
Photos provided by Twin Cities PBS
“Remember the Magic” transports viewers into the heart of one of Minnesota’s most iconic holiday experiences. For more than 50 years, Dayton’s transformed its eighth-floor auditorium into an immersive storybook world, complete with handcrafted animatronics, elaborately designed sets, sparkling window displays, and memorable visits with Santa. Families returned year after year to see favorite characters brought to life, and to experience the joy and creativity that defined the season.
The documentary offers both a nostalgic journey through these dazzling displays and a deeper look at the innovation behind them. Through rare archival footage, personal reflections, and interviews with the artists who crafted each magical scene, viewers gain a behind-the-curtain perspective on the creative “magicians” who made the Dayton’s shows unforgettable. Their work blended engineering, artistry, and storytelling in a way that captured the imagination of millions.
Executive Producer Daniel Bergin describes the Dayton’s holiday shows as “a masterpiece of imagination and tradition that brought the community together.” The film embraces that spirit fully, celebrating not just the visual spectacle, but also the teamwork, passion, and craftsmanship that powered it.
The documentary also looks toward the future, highlighting efforts to restore and preserve the original animatronic figures that once enchanted visitors of all ages. These ongoing preservation projects are reconnecting Minnesotans with a beloved piece of cultural history, ensuring that the magic continues to inspire new generations.
One of the film’s most touching moments comes from Constance Crawford, who worked on the shows for more than 40 years. Reflecting on their enduring impact, she shares, “You don’t erase something this dear to people’s heart.” The documentary brings that sentiment to life, offering longtime fans a chance to relive treasured memories and inviting new viewers to discover a uniquely Minnesota tradition.
Whether you experienced the Dayton’s shows firsthand or are discovering them for the first time, “Remember the Magic” is a heartfelt celebration of community, creativity, and holiday wonder. Don’t miss the Dec. 1 broadcast on TPT 2 at 8:30 p.m.—or stream the film any time on the PBS App or on the Twin Cities PBS YouTube channel.
