Minnesotans are a quirky bunch. Our way of speaking alone proves that we’re just a bit different from even our closest neighbors. And when it comes to the holidays, we don’t stop showing our quirks. From food to shopping to entertainment, our Minnesota Christmas traditions set us apart from others. Here’s our list of 11 offbeat holiday traditions you might run into in Minnesota this year.

1. You'll spend some time outside - no matter the weather.
Brian Dewey/Flickr
Christmas is one of the best times of year, so why stay inside? Hardy Minnesotans take the opportunity to spend some time outside to do some shopping or even go sledding. And we don't stop even if the weather is frigid.
2. You'll make a stop at the biggest mall in America.
Jim Moore/Flickr
Even if we complain about it, so many of us venture out to Mall of America during the Christmas season. It's just so much more convenient to have that many stores to choose from. Plus, the holiday decorations are always on point.
3. If you're lucky, you'll eat lefse.
caren litherland/Flickr
This delicious treat is a staple on many Christmas tables in Minnesota. Whether with cinnamon and sugar or fruit, it's a winner.
4. And if you're not so lucky, you'll eat lutefisk.
mtcarlson/Flickr
Fish with lye. Most Minnesotans will try it at least once - and most will regret it. Still, it's definitely a strange tradition here in Minnesota.
5. You'll take in Holidazzle.
Holidazzle/Facebook
How many other states has such a gorgeous festival that operates warm or cold, snow or sunshine? Every year, Minnesotans gather in droves to celebrate the season at this true state tradition. Lights, movies, and holiday vendors make this a tradition for the whole family.

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6. You might eat tater tot hotdish.
moleofproduction/Flickr
Or any hotdish, really. As long as you don't call it a casserole, you're adhering to the basic rules of being a Minnesotan. If you're celebrating in the Land of 10,000 Lakes, you're bound to see hotdish on the dinner table this Christmas.
7. You might join the crowd lining up to see the lights.
Bentleyville USA/Facebook
Not to mention the droves of cars pressing north to see them. Minnesotans take our holiday lights so seriously that we're willing to make the drive to Duluth - for some of us a long trip - to see the most spectacular display in all the land. To see Bentleyville, it's worth it.
8. You'll get a stocking stuffed with Minnesota candy.
Pearson's Candy Company/Facebook
Or maybe you'll just buy some for yourself to enjoy. Either way, Pearson's Mint Patties, Nut Goodies, or Salted Nut Rolls are Minnesota classics. And during the holiday season, they're especially festive.
9. Everyone will search for a pickle in the tree.
Donna Pool/Flickr
And depending on your family tradition, you might get an extra present if you find it! This quirky tradition is definitely a keeper.
10. You'll sit down to watch A Charlie Brown Christmas.
Bill Couch/Flickr
Sure, people in other states do this too. But because Charles Schulz is one of Minnesota's native sons, doesn't that make the tradition a little more ours?
11. You'll eat so many bars.
J. Annie Wang/Flickr
But hey, who's complaining? Pumpkin bars, fruit bars, even Rice Krispy bars - all staples of the Minnesota potluck, and thus all staples of a Minnesota Christmas.

Does your family have any special traditions? Let us know in the comments! And if you’re looking for more ways to enjoy Christmas in Minnesota, take a peek at our previous article about the 11 Most Enchanting, Magical Christmas Towns In Minnesota.

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More to Explore

Minnesota Christmas Traditions

Melanie J. | November 04, 2022

What are some more Minnesota Christmas traditions?

We love Christmas in Minnesota, and each year, we go above and beyond to celebrate the holiday. While we enjoy eating sweet treats during the season, we also like indulging in a warm adult beverage. That beverage is called Tom and Jerry and it’s made with similar ingredients as eggnog. In fact, this cocktail is like warm eggnog spiked with dark rum. It’s absolutely delicious and if you haven’t tried it, then you’re missing out. We also enjoy hot cocoa from local coffee shops. Another tradition that we love is taking a Christmas themed train to a nearby city. This tradition is timeless and will always bring joy to Minnesotans' hearts. Afterall, everybody loves a good train ride. Baking together is also another Christmas tradition that you’ll find in many homes in Minnesota. We love baking holiday sugar cookies in the shape of Santa, Christmas trees, Rudolph, and more. And here’s a previous article with another Christmas tradition in Minnesota. 

What is the best part about Christmas in Minnesota?

As you already know, Christmas in Minnesota is a big deal. We love seeing Christmas lights, eating traditional foods, spending time with our loved ones, and more. Speaking of spending time with the family, one of the best parts about Christmas in Minnesota is the togetherness. And a favorite activity that we enjoy as a family is to visit a Christmas tree farm and pick out our tree each year. We enjoy this tradition because we spend the day at our favorite tree farm, Pinestead Tree Farms located in Isanti. Besides cutting down our Christmas tree, there is lots to do at this farm. They offer hayrides, photo ops, petting zoos, and more. The kids love seeing Santa and the animals. It’s the perfect way to get ready for Christmas in Minnesota. And if you would like to read about more Christmas tree farms in our state, check out our previous article These 11 Lovely Christmas Tree Farms In Minnesota Are Picture Perfect For A Winter Day.

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