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!
'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.
'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.'
Fr̦hliche 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 Р25-27, and the first 3 weekends in December Р2-4, 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!
'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.
'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:
- Must be following me and The Northern Express on Instagram
- Like the matching IG post and comment your favorite Holiday tradition
- 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.
Mostly Lisa
🎄5 Unique Christmas Events Around the Twin Cities🎄
November 29, 2022 • christmas 2022, holiday 2022, holiday markets, mostly lisa, mostly lisa holiday, shop small, twin cities blogger, twin cities holiday
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!
'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.
'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.'
Fr̦hliche 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 Р25-27, and the first 3 weekends in December Р2-4, 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!
'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.
'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:
- Must be following me and The Northern Express on Instagram
- Like the matching IG post and comment your favorite Holiday tradition
- 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.
Mostly Lisa
Let's be honest, this year has not been "it" for absolutely anyone! The mood to celebrate anything this holiday season is very much out of my own frame of mind. I really just want to be able to survive and make sure everyone around me is doing okay for the rest of this year. I do feel kind-of gross putting together a gift guide right now, especially since money is going to be tight for so many people (THANKS GOVERNMENT) and there are many more important things to be saving for. That being said, I decided I wanted to do something that can hopefully help businesses that I've been following for awhile and essentially be the way of giving back. Maybe this can also put a smile on your face and give you something to look forward to in regards to the holidays. I always find joy in buying something special for a loved one.
This years Mostly Lisa Gift Guide is going to be all about shopping small, which is obviously extremely important every year, but just a little bit more so for 2020! So here is the only gift guide I'll be doing featuring 17 ideas from small businesses that I've had my eye on for awhile, shops that are local to MN, gifts in various price ranges and what's even more amazing? I'm pretty sure all of these are owned by women! Please do take the time to click each link (none of these are sponsored, I just think they're really neat) and take a look at their websites. I hope you can find something that will fit the people on your list, or something that may catch your own eye! Let me know what your favorite small shops are in the comments below. Love you all!
1. 'Versailles' Earrings - Serendipitous Project: $120
Serendipitous Project provides affordable and sustainable alternatives for trendy jewelry. I've loved seeing this brand grow over the past several months. All the designs are made with love by the owner - Sydney - and I have these gorgeous earrings on own list this year.
Truly, truly obsessed with this brand! Side Dimes combines art that sees through cultural norms and defines pop culture in society. These are so unique and will look great in any home.
7. Bakery Sampler - Cookie Cart: $12/dozen
This one absolutely means the most to me on this list, especially since it's based her in MN. Started in 1988, Cookie Cart provides teens ages 15 to 18 with lasting and meaningful work,life and leadership skills through employment and training in urban nonprofit bakeries. I truly recommend this for anyone on your list.
8. Saint Paul Neighborhoods Map Print - Art by Aleisha: $38
Love these prints made by Aleisha Nelson that feature neighborhoods all around the world. This one is my favorite, mostly because it's of my own neighborhood!
9. Handmade Jane Austen Teapot - The Jane Austen Centre: $89
This glazed ceramic Jane Austen Teapot features a stack of Jane Austen novels, topped with a lid designed to replicate a teacup and saucer (complete with silver spoon!) Buying anything from this historic landmark will help keep it open, which has been difficult this year for them, and retain a team of tour guides. Plus, how cute is this item?!
10. Cauldron Wax Melter Box - The Curiosity Society: $33
A beautiful glossy black cauldron oil or wax burner and two snap bars of wax melts in Moon Witch and Snow Witch perfumes that will be perfect for any home owner!
11. Bliss+ CBD Oil 1500mg - BLNCD Naturals: $80
A blend formulated to boost energy, increase mental focus and clarity and to uplift your mood – naturally. BLNCD Naturals creates award-winning, premium-quality beauty and wellness products inspired by the therapeutic properties of plant-based ingredients, including CBD. This will definitely help with any stress during this time of year, so sign me up!
A beautiful gift bundle to scent your home, bedroom and will give you the opportunity to pamper yourself. This gift includes the following:- 1 Skippy Cotton Black Lavender Moon Man- 1 Thistle Balsam Dumpling- 1 Sacred Sage Fizzy Bath Bomb- 1 handmade Bullion Star patch- 1 Peppermint/Sage Bundle.
13. Home for Christmas Candle - Howard Soap Co.: $24
Home For Christmas is a holiday + winter favorite. Top notes of icy peppermint with holly berry, a hint of spice and grounding balsam. All candles are handpoured in truly small batches with care using 100% soy wax (zero paraffin), cotton wick, always phthalate free high quality fragrance and cotton wick.
14. F A C E F O U N D R I É Gift Card: $50-$200
Need a facial? Located in Minnesota? Then a gift card to Face Foundrie may be a perfect gift or stocking stuffer! This salon is the perfect place to have a unique experience with a catered menu of services that will fit your busy lifestyle!
15. Quarentine Sticker Sheet - Sharee Miller: $7
Cute self-care, quarantine inspired sticker set. Decorate your planner, notebooks, or anything you want to stick a sticker on!
16. Coffee + Tea Create - Minny & Paul: $148
For the coffee and tea lovers in your life! Minny & Paul was established in 2016 with the vision to elevate gift-giving. Truly such a lovely company that cares about their customers and the brands they work with. Highly recommend!
17. Floral Bouquet - Moody Hues Floral: $50-$100
I simply love and adore Moody Hues Floral. Owned by two BFFS, they KNOW flowers and offer a wide range of beautiful bouquets that can fit your budget! Head to their website for their contact form and their IG always showcases ideas you can shop for.
MOSTLY LISA'S HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE: SHOP SMALL
November 23, 2020 • holiday 2020, holiday gift guide, local shopping, mostly lisa, mostly lisa gift guide, mostly lisa holiday, shop small, small businesses, twin cities blogger
Let's be honest, this year has not been "it" for absolutely anyone! The mood to celebrate anything this holiday season is very much out of my own frame of mind. I really just want to be able to survive and make sure everyone around me is doing okay for the rest of this year. I do feel kind-of gross putting together a gift guide right now, especially since money is going to be tight for so many people (THANKS GOVERNMENT) and there are many more important things to be saving for. That being said, I decided I wanted to do something that can hopefully help businesses that I've been following for awhile and essentially be the way of giving back. Maybe this can also put a smile on your face and give you something to look forward to in regards to the holidays. I always find joy in buying something special for a loved one.
This years Mostly Lisa Gift Guide is going to be all about shopping small, which is obviously extremely important every year, but just a little bit more so for 2020! So here is the only gift guide I'll be doing featuring 17 ideas from small businesses that I've had my eye on for awhile, shops that are local to MN, gifts in various price ranges and what's even more amazing? I'm pretty sure all of these are owned by women! Please do take the time to click each link (none of these are sponsored, I just think they're really neat) and take a look at their websites. I hope you can find something that will fit the people on your list, or something that may catch your own eye! Let me know what your favorite small shops are in the comments below. Love you all!
1. 'Versailles' Earrings - Serendipitous Project: $120
Serendipitous Project provides affordable and sustainable alternatives for trendy jewelry. I've loved seeing this brand grow over the past several months. All the designs are made with love by the owner - Sydney - and I have these gorgeous earrings on own list this year.
Truly, truly obsessed with this brand! Side Dimes combines art that sees through cultural norms and defines pop culture in society. These are so unique and will look great in any home.
7. Bakery Sampler - Cookie Cart: $12/dozen
This one absolutely means the most to me on this list, especially since it's based her in MN. Started in 1988, Cookie Cart provides teens ages 15 to 18 with lasting and meaningful work,life and leadership skills through employment and training in urban nonprofit bakeries. I truly recommend this for anyone on your list.
8. Saint Paul Neighborhoods Map Print - Art by Aleisha: $38
Love these prints made by Aleisha Nelson that feature neighborhoods all around the world. This one is my favorite, mostly because it's of my own neighborhood!
9. Handmade Jane Austen Teapot - The Jane Austen Centre: $89
This glazed ceramic Jane Austen Teapot features a stack of Jane Austen novels, topped with a lid designed to replicate a teacup and saucer (complete with silver spoon!) Buying anything from this historic landmark will help keep it open, which has been difficult this year for them, and retain a team of tour guides. Plus, how cute is this item?!
10. Cauldron Wax Melter Box - The Curiosity Society: $33
A beautiful glossy black cauldron oil or wax burner and two snap bars of wax melts in Moon Witch and Snow Witch perfumes that will be perfect for any home owner!
11. Bliss+ CBD Oil 1500mg - BLNCD Naturals: $80
A blend formulated to boost energy, increase mental focus and clarity and to uplift your mood – naturally. BLNCD Naturals creates award-winning, premium-quality beauty and wellness products inspired by the therapeutic properties of plant-based ingredients, including CBD. This will definitely help with any stress during this time of year, so sign me up!
A beautiful gift bundle to scent your home, bedroom and will give you the opportunity to pamper yourself. This gift includes the following:- 1 Skippy Cotton Black Lavender Moon Man- 1 Thistle Balsam Dumpling- 1 Sacred Sage Fizzy Bath Bomb- 1 handmade Bullion Star patch- 1 Peppermint/Sage Bundle.
13. Home for Christmas Candle - Howard Soap Co.: $24
Home For Christmas is a holiday + winter favorite. Top notes of icy peppermint with holly berry, a hint of spice and grounding balsam. All candles are handpoured in truly small batches with care using 100% soy wax (zero paraffin), cotton wick, always phthalate free high quality fragrance and cotton wick.
14. F A C E F O U N D R I É Gift Card: $50-$200
Need a facial? Located in Minnesota? Then a gift card to Face Foundrie may be a perfect gift or stocking stuffer! This salon is the perfect place to have a unique experience with a catered menu of services that will fit your busy lifestyle!
15. Quarentine Sticker Sheet - Sharee Miller: $7
Cute self-care, quarantine inspired sticker set. Decorate your planner, notebooks, or anything you want to stick a sticker on!
16. Coffee + Tea Create - Minny & Paul: $148
For the coffee and tea lovers in your life! Minny & Paul was established in 2016 with the vision to elevate gift-giving. Truly such a lovely company that cares about their customers and the brands they work with. Highly recommend!
17. Floral Bouquet - Moody Hues Floral: $50-$100
I simply love and adore Moody Hues Floral. Owned by two BFFS, they KNOW flowers and offer a wide range of beautiful bouquets that can fit your budget! Head to their website for their contact form and their IG always showcases ideas you can shop for.
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