Best Bets: Nov. 17-23

Things to do around Minnesota this week: Christmas City of the North parade, Gingerbread Wonderland, Pentatonix on tour, and more

Romance at the Ordway

What: “The Notebook” Musical
When: Nov. 18-30
Where: Ordway—345 Washington St., St. Paul

The cult favorite Nicholas Sparks novel and film finds a new life on stage, with Ordway’s musical rendition of “The Notebook.” Opening Nov. 18, watch Noah and Allie’s epic romance unfold to the tune of original songs by multi-platinum singer and songwriter Ingrid Michaelson and expressive choreography by Katie Spelman.

Photo by Roger Mastroianni

Winter Glow

What: Winter Lights at the Arboretum 
When: Nov. 20, 6-9 p.m.
Where: Minnesota Landscape Arboretum—3675 Arboretum Drive, Chaska

Winter is nearly here—and the University of Minnesota Landscape Arboretum is prepared to light the way through the dark season. The arboretum’s annual Winter Lights spectacle returns Nov. 20, with an opening ceremony including cookies, hot cocoa, and festive displays. Open on select evenings through Dec. 31, guests can wander through the ethereal gardens to admire a one-mile trail of festive holiday lights, depicting the wondrous flora and fauna of Minnesota.

Minnesota Landscape Arboretum Winter lights

Photo by Norbert Lucas

Holiday Serenade

What: Pentatonix: Christmas in the City Tour
When: Nov. 20, 7 p.m.
Where: Grand Casino Arena—199 W. Kellogg Blvd., St. Paul

The world-famous a capella group known for their transcendent holiday covers brings their seasonal magic to St. Paul for the Christmas in the City Tour. Sway to spiritual favorites like “Hallelujah,” “Mary, Did You Know?,” and “Amazing Grace,” as well as upbeat classics like “12 Days of Christmas” and “Feliz Navidad.” As the group’s layered, harmonious vocals fill the stadium, you’ll understand why the Grammy Award-winning artists have become synonymous with Christmas cheer.

Northern Spirit

What: Christmas City of the North Parade 
When: Nov. 21, 6:30-8 p.m.
Where: Superior Street, Duluth

Experience one of Minnesota’s most magical holiday celebrations in a city that feels like it was made for Christmas: Duluth. The holiday-themed parade that has been running for more than six decades will return to Superior Street this weekend with marching bands, colorful floats, dance performances, and appearances from Mr. and Mrs. Claus, all set against the running backdrop of the North Shore.

Christmas City of the North Parade, Duluth

Provided by Visit Duluth

Gingerbread Village

What: Gingerbread Wonderland Kicks off 
When: Nov. 21- Jan. 3
Where: Norway House—913 E. Franklin Ave., Minneapolis

What better way to get into the holiday spirit than wandering through a village of 250 hand-built gingerbread houses? Inspired by the Pepperkakebyen—the world’s largest gingerbread city located in Bergen, Norway—Norway House recreates the magic each season in Minneapolis, calling professional bakers and gingerbread enthusiasts to craft replicas of familiar community landmarks that spread holiday cheer. Come visit the tasty village starting Nov. 21, on display through Jan. 3.

Gingerbread Village 2024

provided by Norway House

Makers on Sixth

What: Miracle on 6th Street Market
When: Nov. 22, 12-6 p.m.
Where: Fulton Beer Taproom—414 N. Sixth Ave., Minneapolis

Brews, makers, and holiday cheer converge at Fulton Brewery’s Miracle on 6th Street market event. Ring in the holidays early by shopping festive creations from 16 local makers and artists, including Apothecary 19, Beck’s Books, Moxie Designs, and more.