Colorful string lights, enchanted snowfalls, holiday goodies and waiting for Santa. That magical time of the year is approaching, and what better way to celebrate the holiday season than with events in the White Bear Lake area? From music concerts to winter festivals, there are plenty of jolly happenings nearby for people of all ages. Whether you’re a holiday enthusiast, or even a Scrooge, here are a few of the many fun events around town that everyone will enjoy, no matter what the festive preference.
Tree of Lights and Remembrance
With all the hustle and bustle that comes during the holiday season, it can be easy to forget about those important to us. This December marks Mahtomedi’s 17th annual light ceremony to commemorate or honor a loved one. Each year, the Mahtomedi Area Food Shelf organizes this special event to acknowledge those close to our hearts while donating to a good cause. Attendees may purchase a light to remember an individual either online or through the food shelf. All proceeds will go toward the Mahtomedi Area Food Shelf.
Date December 1 Time 6:30 p.m.
Location Triangle Park, Mahtomedi
Cost $10 per light
Visit the website here for more information.
Nicki Stiepan speaks at the lighting ceremony.
Pjs with Santa
Get out your favorite PJs! Vadnais Heights Parks and Recreation Department continues its longstanding tradition of providing kiddos with quality time with Santa. Meant for all ages, the event includes holiday games, balloon animals, face painting and time with Santa himself. The No Nose for Rudolph Show is a great way to get young audiences in the holiday spirit, with two showings at 6:15 and 7:15 p.m. Cookies and refreshments will also be provided.
Date December 1 Time 6–8 p.m.
Location Vadnais Heights Commons
Cost $10/family (residents), $20/family (non-residents); registration deadline is November 27.
Visit the website here for more information.
Breakfast with Santa
Christmas is a magical time for kids, and part of that magic has to do with the man in red. So, for the fifth year in a row, Rudy’s Redeye Grill is offering their Breakfast with Santa, a time where your littles can feast of a veritable smorgasbord of delectable food, not to mention have their picture taken with Santa and Mrs. Claus. This well-attended event also offers holiday treats, a Christmas sing-along, coloring books and much more.
Date December 2 Time Two seatings: 8:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Location Rudy’s Redeye Grill, 4940 Highway 61 N., White Bear Lake Cost Adults $15, children $9, which includes tax and gratuity; reservations required. Visit the website here for more information.
Holiday Tours at the Historic Fillebrown House
This event is perfect for history lovers of all ages. Since the late 1970s the White Bear Lake Area Historical Society has been giving tours of the beautiful Fillebrown House. This holiday season, come see the memorable residence embellished in all its festive décor. Tour guides will lead you through the house telling stories of the Fillebrown family in the place they called home. Munch on holiday treats as you take in all the history. The holiday tours are only available for one day, so be sure to take advantage of this opportunity.
Date December 2 Time 1 p.m., 2 p.m.,
3 p.m., tours last approx. one hour
Location The Fillebrown House, White Bear Lake
Cost $5 general public, free to WBLAHS members; reservations required.
Visit the website here for more information.
Winterfest
The holiday season isn’t complete without family and friends. Winterfest in White Bear Lake is the perfect community event to gather with loved ones, whether you are from the area or visiting. The winter celebration features shops and restaurants with tasty cuisine. Youngsters will have the opportunity to visit with Santa and pose for a memorable photo. For a picturesque view of the town, climb aboard the trolley rides that go around White Bear Lake. Winterfest is sponsored by Downtown White Bear Lake Main Street Inc., Medicine Chest Pharmacy and Sun Color Photo.
Date Saturdays, December 2, 9, 16
Time Photos with Santa from 11:00 a.m.–2 p.m., horse-drawn trolley rides from 11 a.m.–2:45 p.m.
Location Downtown White Bear Lake
Cost Photos with Santa and trolley rides are free with a non-perishable food item.
Visit the website here for more information.
Nachito Herrera and His Trio
Looking for music concerts that don't include the usual holiday songs? The Wildwood Artist Series proudly presents the mesmerizing sounds of Cuban pianist Nachito Herrera and his fantastic trio.The talented group plays at the Dakota Jazz Club on numerous occasions, and is excited to grace the stage in Mahtomedi. Known for captivating audiences with his dexterous fingers on the keyboard, Herrera’s lively tunes will leave you wanting more. The concert is suitable for middle- and high-school students, and adults of all ages.
Date December 10 Time 3 p.m.
Location Chautauqua Fine Arts Center, Mahtomedi
Cost Adult $25, senior (62+) $20, student $15
Visit the website here for more information.
