About the Festival
The Winter Lights at Minnesota is an annual holiday lighting event hosted at the University of Minnesota Landscape Arboretum. It is a festival of lights that blends indoor and outdoor spaces, turning the arboretum into a canvas of vibrant colors and sparkling Christmas lights. In this event, the garden’s pathways and indoor spaces are transformed into glowing attractions that complement the holiday season.
Aside from that, this lighting event is made for all ages, making it a great choice for families and groups of friends. Visitors can spend time together exploring the Winter Village, enjoying warm treats at the S’mores Village, or taking an easy, leisurely walk through the displays. Overall, the festival offers the perfect occasion for everyone to celebrate the holidays with fun and good vibes.
Here are some of the lighting displays featured at the festival:
- Tunnel of Lights – This illuminated passage surrounds visitors with shifting colors, creating an immersive light show. It is one of the most popular spots and a favorite for photos.
- Fairy Lights – Delicate twinkle lights wrap around trees and garden features. These tiny lights add color and sparkle to the landscape.
- Light Trail – The light trail winds through garden paths with changing colors that keep the walk engaging.
- Light Sculptures – These glowing art pieces provide a creative and whimsical touch to the festival. Set throughout the grounds, they stand out beautifully against the winter setting, inviting a closer look.
When is the Winter Lights at Minnesota
The holiday lighting event kicked off last November 20 and will run until December 31, 2025, which means you still have time to experience this immersive lighting celebration. These dates are perfect for families and friends who wish to celebrate the holiday season in a fun, colorful way. Families with kids will especially enjoy the garden’s winter wonderland vibe.
If you don’t want to miss this amazing festival of lights this holiday season, mark your calendar and save the date.
Where It’s Located and How to Get There
Minnesota Landscape Arboretum, where the Winter Lights is taking place, is located at 3675 Arboretum Drive in Chaska, Minnesota, USA. The open space of the arboretum provides the perfect backdrop for the glowing pathways and colorful light displays. The garden’s spacious area also provides a convenient and easy way for visitors to explore the different attractions at their own pace, making the experience of the Winter Lights even more fantastic.
The closest major airport to the arboretum is the Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport (MSP), which serves travelers arriving from across the country and beyond. From MSP, the drive to the arboretum usually takes about 30 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic. Visitors can choose from several convenient transportation options once they land.
Getting from MSP Airport to the Festival Location:
- Car rental: Rental cars are available at the airport and offer the most flexibility, especially for evening visits.
- Rideshare services: Uber and Lyft operate throughout the airport and can take you directly to the arboretum.
- Taxi services: Airport taxis provide a straightforward, door-to-door option.
How to Reach the Festival Using Public Transit:
- From Minneapolis: Use Metro Transit buses or light rail to reach a SouthWest Transit Park & Ride in areas like Eden Prairie, then continue with a rideshare or taxi for the final 10–15 minute drive to the arboretum.
- From St. Paul: Take the METRO Green Line toward Minneapolis and connect to a SouthWest Transit bus heading toward Chaska. Exit near East Creek Transit Station, then finish the trip with a short rideshare ride.
- From Bloomington: Ride the METRO Blue Line to connect with regional bus services toward Eden Prairie or Chaska, then use a taxi or rideshare to reach the festival entrance.
If you liked this festival, you can also check out these other holiday lighting events:
Festival Hours
The Winter Lights festival is open daily from 4:30 PM to 9:00 PM. This late afternoon to evening schedule makes it easy for attendees to plan a visit to the arboretum, whether it’s after work or after dinner. Also, the five and a half hour run of the event offers guests the chance to explore the lights and different attractions at a more relaxed pace.
If you wish to make the most of the Winter Lights, take note of these festival hours.
How Much Does It Cost to Visit the Winter Lights at Minnesota
If you wish to experience the Winter Lights at Minnesota, you need to purchase an entrance ticket. Fortunately, the tickets are affordable and at a reasonable price. This ensures that everyone gets the chance to experience and enjoy the dazzling lights and breathtaking displays at the arboretum.
Below are the ticket prices for the Winter Lights:
- Members: $10
- Non-members: $25
- Children (15 and younger): Free
For more details on ticket prices, you can visit the festival’s official website and social media channels.
Weather and What to Wear
The weather in Chaska, Minnesota from November to December feels truly wintry, with steady drops in temperature and a landscape shaped by cold air and early snowfalls. November days usually hover between 2°C and 7°C, while December brings colder conditions, often settling between -10°C and 0°C, especially after sunset.
To enjoy the festival comfortably, here are some recommended clothing to consider:
- Insulated winter jacket – A warm, well-padded jacket helps trap heat and keeps the cold from creeping in during long walks. Styles that block wind add extra comfort on colder nights.
- Thermal base layers – Thermal tops and leggings provide warmth without adding bulk. They help your body stay comfortable when moving between heated spaces and outdoor paths.
- Warm trousers or lined pants – Pants with insulation or a soft lining protect your legs from the cold air. Regular jeans can feel chilly after a while, especially during slower strolls.
- Hat and gloves – Covering your head and hands helps prevent heat loss and keeps you comfortable longer. Gloves also make it easier to enjoy warm snacks or take photos.
- Winter boots or sturdy footwear – Boots with good grip offer better stability on snowy or icy paths. Comfortable shoes allow you to enjoy the lights without worrying about cold feet.
Where to Stay
If you’re planning to stay overnight near the Winter Lights at Minnesota, here are some hotels to consider:
- Super 8 by Wyndham Chaska – Located at 830 Yellow Brick Rd in Chaska, this hotel offers a stay that covers all the essentials. Guests can enjoy free Wi-Fi, complimentary breakfast, free parking, and an on-site restaurant for added convenience.
- Holiday Inn Express & Suites Chanhassen by IHG – This well-kept hotel provides a comfortable balance of modern style and practical amenities. A free daily breakfast, indoor pool, hot tub, and on-site parking make it a solid choice for travelers who want a little extra comfort.
- AmericInn by Wyndham Chanhassen – Known for its warm, welcoming atmosphere, this hotel offers a relaxed place to unwind after a busy evening. Guests have access to free Wi-Fi, a complimentary breakfast, and indoor pool and hot tub facilities, all designed for an easy, stress-free stay.
Where to Eat – Restaurants Nearby
For visitors looking to grab a satisfying meal before or after enjoying the lights, here are some of the dining spots you can check out:
- Southern Social Chaska – Found at 2880 Chaska Boulevard, this spot brings comfort food to the table with bold Southern flavors. Dishes like chicken and waffles, shrimp and grits, and fresh salads offer something satisfying without feeling heavy.
- The Bellows Bistro – Located at 232 Pioneer Trail, this casual bistro focuses on familiar favorites done right. Burgers, sandwiches, and classic salads fill the menu, making it a simple and reliable choice for a relaxing meal.
- Crooked Pint Ale House – Housed inside the Chaska Curling Center at 3210 Chaska Boulevard, this local pub keeps the mood laid-back and casual. Guests can enjoy craft beers, cocktails, and comfort dishes like burgers, tacos, and pot pies.
More Things to Do in the Area
Beyond the Winter Lights, the Chaska area offers a few relaxing attractions that can add variety to your visit. Here are some of the attractions you can check out:
- Firemen’s Park – This local park on Chaska Boulevard is a nice spot to enjoy some fresh air during the day. With picnic tables, playground swings, and cycling paths, it’s well suited for a relaxed break or a short walk.
- Minnesota Gardens – Tucked along Pioneer Trail, this garden center feels calm and creative from the moment you step inside. Visitors can browse plants, seasonal décor, and gift items while enjoying a slower, more peaceful pace.
- Paisley Park – Located in nearby Chanhassen, this former home and studio of Prince has been open to the public since 2016. The expansive estate now operates as a museum, offering guided experiences that highlight the artist’s life, music, and lasting influence.
A Sparkling Conclusion: Final Thoughts on the Winter Lights at Minnesota
Winter Lights at Minnesota brings the holiday season to life with glowing pathways, colorful displays, and a peaceful winter setting made for leisurely evening walks. This is the ideal event for you to spend a magical holiday celebration with your families and friends. With the vibrant sparkling lights as the backdrop, the festival is the perfect occasion for you and your loved ones to create new holiday memories.
The area surrounding the festival adds even more variety, with nearby parks, gardens, museums, and relaxed dining spots waiting to be explored. These options make it easy to extend your visit and enjoy more of what the region has to offer.
So what are you waiting for? Go get your tickets and experience Winter Lights at Minnesota for yourself.
FAQ
- Is the festival family-friendly?
- Yes, the event welcomes all ages and offers a fun, relaxed atmosphere for families, couples, and groups.
- Is parking available on site?
- Yes, free parking is provided for all visitors, with clear signs and staff to help guide you.
- Can I bring my pet to the festival?
- Only service animals are allowed on the grounds. Other pets are not permitted.
- Is smoking allowed during the event?
- Smoking and vaping are not allowed anywhere on the arboretum property.
- Can visitors take photos or videos?
- Yes, personal photography and video recording are allowed throughout the festival.
- Are food and drinks available?
- Yes, visitors can purchase snacks, warm drinks, and seasonal treats on site.
- Is the festival accessible for wheelchairs and strollers?
- Most paths are accessible, though snow or ice may affect certain areas.
- Are restrooms available?
- Yes, indoor restrooms are open in designated buildings along the route.
Sources: https://arb.umn.edu/winterlights
https://www.exploreminnesota.com/event/winter-lights-2025/10616
