1. Our Very First Christmas Tree

There's nothing else quite like this option for me this year. It simply has to be at the top of the list. Our very first tree together. Memories are being made that I only dreamed about when I was younger and I can't believe they're actually mine. I'm so in love with all of it, so yeah, definitely number one. Here's to appreciating everything happening to me right now.

2. A Tradition Making Its Way Back

Tradition has made a significant impact on me this year and I'm thrilled to find a past one coming back to hopefully stay. The nostalgic factor is HEAVY on this one - for your consideration, the Dayton's Santa Bears have made a comeback after 15 years! My fellow Minnesotans and Midwesterners, this one is for you! Does anyone else remember these adorable stuffed animals that were sold in Dayton's department store in Downtown Minneapolis? So many memories here, my mom started collecting before my sister was born and they slowly became a part of both of our childhoods. This is such a happy memory. 

3. Korean-Inspired Macarons Here At Home

The final thing I'm looking forward to loving this Christmas comes from a Minnesota-owned bakery called K-Town Macarons! How excited was I when I came across this small-owned patisserie while attending The Northern Express last year?! I am always looking for unique, fresh, and local versions of these tasty treats that could live up to my favorite version from Ladurée Macarons. While it's been a challenge, I'd say these French + Korean-inspired macarons are some of the most scrumptious sweets I've come across so far! My absolute favorite reason to love these macarons is simply knowing that they're homemade here in Minnesota and crafted with love by the very sweet owner - Jolynn Wilkinson. We love a woman-owned local business over here! *snap, snap*

While I'm so ecstatic I get to try these again this year, I'm even more thrilled to share that one of my lovely readers will be able to as well! That's right - Jolynn has so graciously offered to give away one of her SOLD-OUT large Christmas Variety Packs to one lucky participant. Please read below for instructions on how to enter. Good luck! 🎄

GIVEAWAY CLOSED

CONGRATULATIONS GO TO MARIANNA 

To enter, you must follow the steps below:

1. Comment on this post below with what flavor from the large Christmas Variety pack you're excited to try! The vanilla almond sounds mighty tasty. 
2.  Follow me and my friends at K-Town Macaron on Instagram
3. For an extra entry, share the associated 'More to Love' highlight on Instagram and tag myself and Jolynn!

The winner will be announced in this blog post on Wednesday, December 21st, 2022 at 11:59PM CST. This giveaway is open to residents of the United States only. Please note, the winner will be announced on my page and I will never ask for any personal payment. 

I adore traditions - they've been a big part of my life since I can remember, most being ones that my parents perfectly handed down to my sister and I. -sigh- Just thinking of my favorites; like setting up a weekend to bake Christmas cookies with my mom and sister, having dad's homemade pizza for Christmas Eve dinner, and my particular favorite - always knowing I would be getting one pair of holiday-appropriate socks from mom as the last gift to open on Christmas morning. What a way to make a girl feel special! 

Now it's time to add one more tradition to my list..

A Few of My Favorite Christmas Markets to Visit This Holiday Season

As much as I love traditions, these unique Christmas events around the Twin Cities are starting to get much higher in ranking! While these types of events are not new to anyone who lives in Minnesota, or even in the Midwest, I've noticed there has definitely been a bigger interest in them over the past couple of years. I'm not actually surprised about that, to be honest. With that being said, here is a small list of a few of them - ones I've even attended, so you can trust my opinion - and keep reading for a very special SURPRISE!

1. Winter Lights 2022 

'Stroll through the Arboretum gardens decked out in Winter Lights. Enjoy fresh air as you explore outdoor light displays, highlighting flowers, trees and the beauty of nature, on a .75-mile walking route. See the new 16-foot weepinIg willow tree and walk through the giant apple, which pays tribute to our Horticultural Research Center’s apple research.'

If the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum during the holidays is anything like their Autumn displays, I can tell you now that it will be spectacular! This year they are doing various themes including; Family Nights, Date Nights, and even a Photography Night. A unique fact about this being it's all outside! Truly looking forward to this! Weekends vary during December. 

2. European Christmas Market

'The European Christmas Market in St. Paul is the most authentic traditional holiday market of its kind in Minnesota, offering a unique shopping experience, family-friendly entertainment & intercultural activities.'

Fröhliche Weihnachten!! I had the chance to attend this traditional holiday market for the first time last year and I'm so thrilled that it is back for another one. Want a true view of how I'm not the only one in Minnesota who loves tradition, make sure to head to the Union Depot! Last weekend in November – 25-27, and the first 3 weekends in December – 2-4, 9-11 & 16-18.

3. Yuletide Cinema at The Parkway

'Bring the family to The Parkway for Yuletide Cinema matinees! There’s something for everyone!'

What's Christmas without the classic + essential holiday movies that you've either grown up with or have the slightest knowledge of. This event caught my eye just for one movie showing though - The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992) // Sunday, December 11, 2022. So please, roll the tape! 

4. Sam's Christmas Village

'A MUST SEE CHRISTMAS LIGHT TOUR of 8 million lights & displays, vendor market, concessions, Santa, live reindeer, restaurant (Wed-Sun), smores cabins and more.'

Technically not in the Twin Cities, but it's just a quick 1-hour jaunt to Somerset, WI! You'll be glad you did as you'll come across one of the coolest light-show attractions in the Midwest! The sparkle and glow of so many lights can be overwhelming, but they've made sure to make it inviting and special for anyone who attends. I never took as many great night photos as I did while attending this, glow, baby, glow! November 25-January 1. Closed Dec 24–Open Dec 25.

5. The Northern Express

'The Northern Express is a winter festival for all, dreamt up by local moms and small business owners, that embraces the spirit of the holidays. Inspired by the blissful magic we grew up believing, this immersive holiday experience will surely bring cheer to the whole family.'

After just starting last year, this amazing event has already become my must-have Christmas Market to attend in the Twin Cities!! I was so impressed with how quickly the people behind this were able to pull everything together, along with the help of the community, - they created something super magical. I cannot wait to attend it again this year and with so much anticipation to see what is going to be new this time around. I'm thrilled to add such a perfect addition to my list of traditions, and speaking of... I think I have another giveaway to do this year with T.N.E., so hope you keep reading!

*DRUMROLL PLEASE*

For the second year in a row, The Northern Express has so kindly offered a FREE Family Pass for one of my lucky readers to win, and what perfect timing - the first week is coming right up! 🎄 ✨🎄  Read below for the ability to win a FREE family season pass of tickets to the Excelsior location for the weekend of your choosing. Weekends in December (12/3/22-12/4/22, 12/9/22 - 12/11/22, 12/16/22-12/18/22)

To enter, you must follow the steps below:

1. Must be following me and The Northern Express on Instagram
2. Like the matching IG post and comment your favorite Holiday tradition
3. Tag a friend you want to go with! 

The giveaway ends on 12/2/22 at 12:00am CST. Please note, the winner will be announced on my page and I will never ask for any personal payment.