Twinkling lights dancing to the tune of holiday music can be found near and far this year.
Festivities include new events such as themed nights at Miracle at Big Rock that will admit dogs and “Winter Woods” at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum that will feature a camp scene with glowing tents. And familiar favorites such as Glow Holiday Festival is back at CHS Field in St. Paul.
Being that this is the season of giving, most light destinations and city tree lighting events are accepting nonperishable food items and new/unused toy donations. So, whether it’s a caroling session, tree lighting ceremony or a million-plus light production, each event is sure brighten your holiday spirit.
Light events
Glow Holiday Festival: An illuminated extravaganza with attractions that include the Enchanted Forest, Giant Snowy Slide, Penguin Playground, Santa’s Shed and sElfie Plaza. 5-9 p.m. select evenings through Jan. 5. $12.75-$21.75. CHS Field, 360 Broadway, St. Paul. glowholiday.com.
Magic of Lights: Stay cozy and warm in your vehicle for this drive-through light display with holiday scenes and characters using LED technology and digital animations. 5:30-9 p.m. Mon.-Thu.; 5:30-10 p.m. Fri.-Sun through Jan. 5. $25-$75 per vehicle. 2685 Vikings Circle, Eagan. magicoflights.com.
The Spirit of Winter: With the grapes hibernating for the winter, Sovereign Estate Winery has been transformed into an illuminated treasure. Stroll the grounds and enjoy attractions including a snow maze, boot hockey arena and Santa’s sleigh. 4-8 p.m. Sun., Tue.-Thu. & Dec. 23; 4-9 p.m. Fri.-Sat. through Dec. 29. $15, ages 5 and under free. 9950 North Shore Road, Waconia. sovereignestatewine.com.
Winter Lights: The Minnesota Landscape Arboretum is transformed into a woodland-themed wonderland of light displays inspired by nature. New this year is “Winter Woods,” a camp scene with glowing tents, campfires and a twinkling moose and deer. Runs through Jan. 5. $20. Minnesota Landscape Arboretum, 3675 Arboretum Drive, Chaska. arb.umn.edu.
Sever’s: Holiday vignettes are along a half-mile display with more than 2.5 million lights. Wander through the Woods Walk, where trees come to life with light. 5-9 p.m. through Dec. 29. $10-$60 per vehicle. 3121 150th St. W., Shakopee. seversfestivals.com.