Bundle up in your puffiest parka and head out to the Dakota Nature Park for your own snowy adventure. Take a walk on the trails and see if you can spot some of the local wildlife or strap on some snowshoes and wander off the beaten path. If you’re looking for a new ice fishing spot to try, you can rent out equipment and test your luck on the pond.

After your fun outdoors, it is time to find a cozy spot to warm up! Kool Beans Coffee & Roasterie is the perfect spot to hunker down and recharge before the evening’s festivities. Enjoy a Paul Bunyan latte and a homemade pastry and relax in one of the seats by the window looking out to Main Avenue.

If you are in the mood for something a little stronger, head next door to Mosaic Wine Bar & Small Plates. Enjoy a curated selection of wine, craft beer, hard seltzers and craft soda.

Festival of Lights

December 6th is the Festival of Lights parade! Bring your blankets, hot chocolate, and enjoy this holiday parade. The route begins down Main Avenue to 3^rd Street, up 5^th Avenue, across 6^th Street, and back to Mian Avenue. The parade will be announced from the Cubby’s Rooftop, so be sure to secure the best viewing spot early!

Garden Glow

300,000 twinkling holiday lights combined with the joyous energy that courses through McCrory Gardens creates memories that will last a lifetime! Enjoy a warming cup of hot chocolate as you adventure through the formal gardens with your friends, family, or that special someone. There are plenty of opportunities to snap the perfect festive picture, so be sure to bring along a camera.

Garden Glow opens December 7th and runs through January 6^th from 5pm-9pm, excluding 12/24, 12/25, and 1/1. Tickets are sold in advance here.

Let it Glow

Bring out your inner Clark Griswold at the 2023 Let it Glow Holiday Lights Competition. There is no better way to end a frosty night than seeing thousands of holiday lights throughout the community.  From the extravagant displays to fun ornate lawn ornaments, follow along the community map to stop by all participating homes! The competition starts on December 6 and goes through January 3.

Looking to get the perfect picture with Santa while you’re in town? Follow our Santa Sightings calendar to plan when you can tell Santa what is on your wish list this December!