Guide to 2025 Holiday Events in Greater Mankato
Mankato’s 2025 holiday season is set to be a magical wonderland of festive events and cherished traditions. As the city shimmers under the glow of twinkling lights, residents and visitors alike are invited to immerse themselves in a heartwarming atmosphere of joy and wonder. From the iconic Kiwanis Holiday Lights illuminating Sibley Park to the classic Christmas at the Hubbard House, there’s an abundance of activities to delight every age and interest. Whether you’re seeking the perfect holiday gift, craving a taste of festive entertainment, or simply longing for the cozy ambiance of a winter wonderland, Mankato offers an unforgettable holiday experience.
Holiday Craft & Gift Show
Start your holiday shopping in Mankato with these festive weekend shopping experiences filled with handmade gifts, local vendors, and holiday cheer! Whether you’re shopping for loved ones or treating yourself, this event is your one-stop shop for all things creative and unique.
Date: November 21 – 23, November 28 – 30, December 5 – 7
Location: River Hills Mall
More Information: November 21 – 23, November 28 – 30, December 5 – 7
Let it Glow, Kato!
Downtown Mankato & North Mankato businesses are spreading holiday cheer with festive window displays. Join us for Let it Glow, Kato! and cast your vote for your favorite display to help determine the People’s Choice Award!
Date: Voting will be open Friday, November 29 – Sunday, December 14
Participating Locations: Stay tuned for a full list of participating businesses and how you can vote for your favorite storefront!
More Information: letitglowkato.com
Kiwanis Holiday Lights
Continuing Mankato’s holiday tradition since 2012, Kiwanis Holiday Lights transforms Sibley Park into a magical winter wonderland. This free holiday attraction offers a walking trail, driving loop, Santa, his reindeer, a skating rink, and more!
Date: Friday, November 28 – Wednesday, December 31
Time: Sunday – Thursday 5:00 – 9:00 pm & Friday – Saturday 5:00 – 10:00 pm
Location: Sibley Park
More Information: 2025 Kiwanis Holiday Lights
Shop Downtown
Join participating Downtown Mankato and North Mankato businesses as they celebrate Small Business Saturday. Start your day by being one of the first 15 shoppers at each participating business to collect a reusable shopping bag and visit multiple participating businesses for a chance to win!
Date: Saturday, November 29
Participating Locations: Arch + Cable, Becky’s Floral, Bonita! by Baubles & Bobbies, Bumbelou, Divine Echoes, Encore Consignment & Riverfront Bridal, Hazelkin & Co., Hotel Alexander, Julee’s Jewelry, Lakota Made, Lucky Trading Co., Nicollet Bike & Ski, Nolabelle Kitchen + Bar, Pagliai’s Pizza, Pond Road Market, Pulp Comics & Games, River City Quilts, River Rock Coffee & Tea, River Valley Running, Salvage Sisters Mercantile, The Dork Den, Tune Town, Whimsy & Weathered, Wild Sparrow, Wooden Spoon
More Information: shopsmallkato.com
Christmas at the Hubbard House
Celebrated by the Blue Earth County Historical Society (BECHS), Christmas at the Hubbard House takes you back in time to the Victorian Era with a Christmas twist. Kate’s sheet music has gone missing, and it’s up to you to solve it! Listen closely to your tour guide for clues, watch for red herrings, and solve the mystery of the missing sheet music!
Date & Time: Saturdays & Sundays 10:00 am – 4:00 pm, December 6 – 21
Location: Historic R.D. Hubbard House
More Information: Blue Earth County Historical Society
The Nutcracker
Join the Mankato Ballet Company as they bring Clara and her Nutcracker Prince to life on the stage as they adventure through the beautiful Land of the Snow and the magical Land of the Sweets.
Date: December 11 – 14
Time: December 11 & 12 at 7 pm, December 13 & 14 at 1 pm and 5 pm
Location: MSU Ted Paul Theatre
More Information: Mankato Ballet Company
Mankato’s 2025 holiday season promises a delightful blend of tradition and festivity. From the enchanting Kiwanis Holiday Lights to the heartwarming Christmas at the Hubbard House, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re seeking festive shopping experiences, captivating performances, or simply a chance to immerse yourself in the holiday spirit, Mankato offers a diverse array of events to make your season truly magical. So, gather your loved ones and explore all that this charming city has to offer this holiday season!