Local Holiday Fun – Check out these local festive activities to bring in the new year!

As the season of lights and togetherness comes to an end,, we’ve curated a list of magical

activities and events for your family in and near Inver Grove Heights. Whether you’re looking

for dazzling holiday lights, snowy fun, or festive dining, there’s something for everyone!

1. Sledding Hills for Winter Fun

Make the most of the snow by exploring some of the best sledding spots in the Twin Cities area!

• North Valley Park (Inver Grove Heights): A local favorite with spacious hills and

plenty of room to play.

• Thompson Park (West St. Paul): A smaller, family-friendly hill perfect for little ones.

For a full guide to Twin Cities sledding hills, check out this blog.

2. Ice Skating Adventures

Enjoy gliding across the ice at local rinks! Many locations offer free or low-cost options.

• Veterans Memorial Community Center (Inver Grove Heights): Indoor rinks for a

warm skating experience.

• Mendota Heights Outdoor Rinks: Beautiful outdoor setting for classic winter vibes.

Find more ice rinks and details in this guide.

3. Holiday Lights & Christmas Villages

The magic of the season comes alive with twinkling lights and holiday displays.

• Sever’s Holiday Lights (Shakopee): A drive-thru experience with over 2 million lights

set to music.

• GLOW Holiday Festival (Saint Paul): Walk through larger-than-life illuminated

displays.

• Christmas in Color (Valleyfair): Another fantastic drive-thru light experience.

Explore more holiday light locations in this holiday guide.

4. A Special Dining Experience: Kindred Hearth Christmas Dinner

Treat your family to a festive feast at Kindred Hearth in Eagan!

This holiday-themed dinner combines a cozy atmosphere with seasonal flavors, creating an

unforgettable dining experience. Make your reservation early, as spots fill quickly!

5. Noon Year’s Eve Celebration

Ring in the New Year with a family-friendly event at the Veterans Memorial Community Center

in Inver Grove Heights. On December 31, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, enjoy swimming, music,

and crafts, culminating in a countdown to noon. This event is perfect for families with young

children who want to celebrate the New Year without staying up late. Pre-registration is

recommended.

New Years Eve is one of my FAVORITE holidays! I have a tradition of having some yummy

food and doing a balloon drop for my son. Check out how to set up a balloon drop for your

family here: https://youtu.be/NPxms6ldbng?si=Gv92ayePSGkUo5X3

Make the Most of the Season

Embrace the magic of winter and the holidays with these local treasures. Whether you’re

sledding, skating, or enjoying a cozy meal, these activities are a perfect way to create lasting

memories.