Things To Do In The Twin Cities: Handel’s Messiah, Who’s Holiday & More
Looking for the best things to do in the Twin Cities? This guide covers the top events in Minneapolis and St. Paul this weekend and the upcoming week, from December 15th to December 22nd. Whether you are searching for festive holiday concerts, captivating theater, or thrilling sports action, the area is buzzing with activity. We’ve curated a list of can’t-miss happenings to help you plan your week.
Holiday-Themed Events & Concerts
Get into the festive spirit with these holiday events happening across St. Paul and Minneapolis. From classical music to bustling Christmas markets, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Classical Holiday Performances
Handel’s Messiah Concert
Celebrate the season with a timeless classic. The Ordway Center for the Performing Arts in St. Paul presents a beautiful performance of Handel’s Messiah. This powerful oratorio is a holiday tradition for many and a wonderful way to experience classical music.
- Date: Thursday, Dec 18, 2025, at 7:00 PM
- Location: Ordway Center, St. Paul
9th Annual Christmas Together with Steven C & Friends
Join multi-platinum artist Steven C Anderson for his annual Christmas concert at the stunning Cathedral of Saint Paul. He will be joined by guest musicians and choirs for an evening of heartwarming holiday music.
- Dates: Thursday, Dec 18, 2025, at 7:00 PM & Friday, Dec 19, at 2:00 PM
- Location: Cathedral of Saint Paul, St. Paul
Festive Markets and Family Fun
European Christmas Market
Experience the charm of an authentic open-air Christmas market at the Union Depot East Plaza. Stroll through vendor stalls offering unique gifts, enjoy traditional food and drinks, and soak in the festive atmosphere. This market is one of the premier holiday events in St. Paul this weekend.
- Date: Opens Friday, Dec 19, 2025, at 3:00 PM and runs through the weekend.
- Location: Union Depot East Plaza, St. Paul
Santa’s Train Shop
Bring the family to the Minnesota Transportation Museum for a day of holiday fun. Santa’s Train Shop features intricate model train displays, opportunities for pictures with Santa, and holiday crafts for the kids.
- Date: Saturday, Dec 20, 2025, at 10:00 AM
- Location: Minnesota Transportation Museum, St. Paul
Indigenous Holiday Market & Benefit Concert
Support local artisans and a great cause at the Indigenous Roots Cultural Arts Center. Shop for unique gifts from over 20 local vendors and stay for a benefit concert that supports youth development programs.
- Date: Saturday, Dec 20, 2025, at 12:00 PM
- Location: Indigenous Roots Cultural Arts Center, St. Paul
A Misfit Christmas!
Enjoy a family-friendly musical that celebrates the quirky side of the holidays. Art House North presents this delightful show featuring offbeat Christmas stories and caroling. It’s a perfect, lighthearted outing for all ages.
- Date: Saturday, Dec 20, 2025, at 3:00 PM
- Location: Art House North, St. Paul
Arts & Entertainment
The Twin Cities’ arts scene is vibrant, offering a diverse range of performances. From classic ballet to holiday blues and electronic music, there are plenty of entertainment events in Minneapolis and St. Paul this weekend.
Live Performances and Theater
Twin Cities Ballet – A Minnesota Nutcracker
See the holiday classic with a local twist. The Twin Cities Ballet performs A Minnesota Nutcracker at Northrop auditorium. This beautiful production is a must-see for ballet lovers and a magical experience for families.
- Date: Wednesday, Dec 17, 2025, at 2:00 PM
- Location: Northrop, Minneapolis
Cornbread & Friends – Holiday Blues Show
For a more intimate and soulful holiday experience, head to the Hook & Ladder Theater. Legendary bluesman James Samuel ‘Cornbread’ Harris, Sr. and friends will perform a cozy holiday blues show.
- Date: Thursday, Dec 18, 2025, at 7:30 PM
- Location: The Hook & Ladder Theater, Minneapolis
Who’s Holiday
Looking for some adult-oriented humor? The Hive Collaborative presents Who’s Holiday, an irreverent comedy that catches up with a grown-up Cindy Lou Who. This one-woman show is sharp, funny, and definitely not for kids.
- Date: Friday, Dec 19, 2025, at 10:00 PM
- Location: The Hive Collaborative, St. Paul
Major Concert Events
Excision – 2-Day Pass
Electronic music fans, get ready for a massive show at The Armory. Canadian DJ Excision brings his signature heavy dubstep and spectacular visuals for a two-day concert event. This is one of the biggest music events in Minneapolis this weekend.
- Date: Friday, Dec 19, 2025
- Location: The Armory, Minneapolis
Sports
Catch live professional basketball action right in the heart of Minneapolis.
Minnesota Timberwolves vs. Oklahoma City Thunder
Cheer on the home team as the Minnesota Timberwolves take on the Oklahoma City Thunder. Experience the excitement of an NBA game at the Target Center. It’s a great way to spend a Friday night with friends or family.
- Date: Friday, Dec 19, 2025, at 8:30 PM
- Location: Target Center, Minneapolis
Summary
The Twin Cities are packed with fantastic events this week. You can enjoy holiday traditions like Handel’s Messiah or the European Christmas Market, experience world-class entertainment like the Minnesota Nutcracker or Excision’s concert, or catch an exciting Timberwolves game. Whether you’re looking for family fun, a night out, or a unique cultural experience, you’ll find plenty of events in Minneapolis and St. Paul to fill your calendar.
For those interested in more local stories and cultural narratives, you can explore further content on community events at thenarrativematters.com.
To discover even more events and purchase tickets for various shows and attractions in the area, a great resource is the official tourism site, Explore Minnesota.
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