Is it already that time of year? Thanksgiving is here, and if burning off the turkey through Black Friday shopping isn’t your cup of tea, no worries. There are plenty of alternatives to get you into the holiday spirit (that are less hectic and allow you to sleep in!)
Minnesota Wild vs. Winnipeg Jets
Cheer on the Wild as they take on the Winnipeg Jets. The puck drops at 3 p.m. at the Xcel Energy Center.
Where to go: 199 W. Kellogg Blvd., St. Paul
For more info: 651-265-4800, info@xcelenergycenter.com
A Victorian Christmas at the Ramsey House
The staff at the Alexander Ramsey House invites you to travel back in time and discover how the Ramsey family and servants celebrated the holiday season during the Victorian era. Special holiday tours include original family ornaments, gifts, holiday music played on an 1875 Steinway piano and fresh cookies, baked in the home’s wood stove.
Where to go: 265 Exchange St. S., St. Paul
For more info: Minnesota Historical Society at 651-259-3000, mhs.org
Hmong New Year
Celebrate Hmong culture at the St. Paul RiverCentre from November 27-29. The annual cultural event features traditional dance, music, food, crafts and dress. Tickets are available at RiverCentre.
Where to go: 175 Kellogg Blvd., St. Paul (park in the RiverCentre parking ramp)
For more info: RiverCentre Hmong New Year
Imperial Black Friday
SW Craft Bar in St. Paul presents a night of Imperial Stouts for its fourth annual “Imperial Black Friday.” Head to Lowertown St. Paul and try some of the 20 different stouts available on tap. A few of the most highly sought-after imperial stouts are making an appearance this night, as well as new brews, such as Insight Brewing’s “Double Barrel-Aged Gravity Well.”
Where to go: 111 E. Kellogg Blvd., St. Paul
For more info: 651-224-2019, eatdrink@swcraftbar.com
Holidazzle
It may not be the Holidazzle we remember, with an illuminated night-time parade through downtown Minneapolis’ Nicollet Mall, but this new tradition of Holidazzle will be just as merry and bright. The celebration will take place at Loring Park this year, with Friday, November 27 as the Ceremonial Opening, featuring a fireworks display, music by the Minnesota Chorale, a tree lighting, and the fun (and funny) movie, Elf.
Where to go: Loring Park, Minneapolis (southwest corner of downtown Minneapolis)
For more info: 612-376-7669, holidazzle@downtownminneapolis.com
Excelsior Christkindlsmarkt
The Excelsior Christkindlsmarkt three-day Christmas festival is scheduled to kick off Black Friday with an Opening Parade in the morning. There are plenty of activities for the kids at Kinderworld, including crafts, storytelling, facepainting and visits from Father Christmas. Adults can enjoy themselves as well, with a visit to the open-air market and beer garden.
Where to go: 180 George St., Excelsior
For more info: Myrle Mackenzie at 952-292-8898, myrlemac@aol.com
