Nov 30, 2023 - Things to Do
Twin Cities weekend events: Nordic Julemarket, "The Nutcracker"
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Illustration: Maura Losch/Axios
This weekend in the Twin Cities, check out Santa's village at the European Christmas Market, the "Nutcracker" ballet and more.
1. 🎅 Shop and see Santa
Missed snagging tickets to the American Swedish Institute's sold-out Julmarknad Handcraft Market & Festival?
- You can still get your Scandinavian holiday fix at the annual Nordic Julemarket at Utepils Brewing Company.
What to expect: Nordic-inspired art from over 25 local artists.
Details: The market runs Friday 4pm–8pm, Saturday 12pm–8pm and Sunday 12pm–6pm. Admission is free, though we suggest buying a pint to sip while you shop.
Of note: There are plenty of other holiday markets across the Twin Cities this weekend, including many that are free (besides what you spend shopping, of course).
- For example, the European Christmas Market at Union Depot in St. Paul continues, with over 70 vendors and a Santa's village.
2. 🩰 "Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet"
- Enjoy a Christmas classic by an international cast Thursday–Saturday at the Orpheum Theatre in Minneapolis. Tickets start at $34.
- 7pm Thursday and Friday, 1pm and 5pm Saturday.
3. 🤘 56Mas Market & Punk Rock Christmas Show
- Shop from 25 local makers and enjoy food trucks, photo-ops, craft beer and a punk rock party, 1–11pm Saturday at 56 Brewing in Minneapolis. Free.
4. 🚵 Global Fat Bike Day
- Cycle along the Minnesota River and then enjoy a bonfire, donuts, hot chocolate and coffee from Northern Coffeeworks, 10am–noon Saturday. Free.
- Join bikers between the Sibley House in Mendota and the 494 bridge.
5. ⛪ "Black Nativity"
- Watch the musical performance written by Langston Hughes, running this week through Dec. 24 at Penumbra Theatre in St. Paul. Tickets start at $20 and vary by date and time.
