The holidays have always been magical, but there’s something extra special about experiencing them as a parent for the first time. If you’re anything like me, the thought of creating new traditions with your little one—traditions that they’ll look forward to year after year—feels both exciting and a bit overwhelming. How do you make the holidays feel special without overcommitting or turning your December into a to-do list marathon?
Let’s keep it simple and meaningful. Here are some ideas for creating holiday traditions with your growing family, along with a list of Twin Cities holiday events to make the season extra memorable.
Start Simple: Easy Family Traditions for the Holidays
1. Create a Keepsake Ornament
Buy a blank ornament each year and let your baby leave their “mark”—literally. Use non-toxic paint to make a handprint or footprint on the ornament. As they grow, transition to letting them paint or decorate their own. Over the years, you’ll build a collection of ornaments that tells the story of your family.
2. Pick Your Tree Day
Choose a specific day or weekend every year to pick out your Christmas tree (or set up your artificial one). Add a little flair by making it an event: grab hot cocoa, play holiday music, and take a family photo next to the tree. Bonus points if you visit a local tree farm for the full experience!
3. Host a Pajama & Movie Night
Dedicate one evening each December to cozy up as a family in matching pajamas, complete with popcorn, hot chocolate, and a holiday movie. Start with classics like The Polar Express or Elf for the kiddos.
4. Make Giving a Tradition
Incorporate a family act of kindness into your holiday season. As your kids grow, they’ll learn that the holidays are about giving as much as receiving. Ideas:
Drop off toys for Toys for Tots.
Help pack meals at Feed My Starving Children.
Donate baby clothes or gear to a local shelter.
5. Celebrate the First Snow
Mark the first snow of the season with a mini celebration. Whether it’s building a baby-sized snowman or simply bundling up for a stroller walk in the snow, it’s a beautiful way to celebrate winter’s arrival.
6. Bake Something Together
Even if your little one is too small to help, let them sit nearby (or taste test!) while you bake holiday cookies or your family’s favorite seasonal treat. Snap a photo to capture the moment.
7. Visit Local Holiday Events
One of the best parts about living in the Twin Cities is the abundance of holiday events. Each year, pick a few favorites to attend as a family—many are perfect for little ones!
Twin Cities Holiday Events for Families
1. Holidazzle
📍 Loring Park, Minneapolis
This classic Twin Cities event features lights, music, food vendors, and even fireworks. It’s stroller-friendly and great for little ones who love the twinkling lights.
2. GLOW Holiday Festival
📍 CHS Field, St. Paul
A magical walk-through light show with larger-than-life displays. Bonus: It’s a fundraiser for local non-profits!
3. Bentleyville “Tour of Lights”
📍 Bayfront Festival Park, Duluth (a short road trip!)
This free outdoor light show is worth the drive and a great excuse for a winter getaway.
4. Winter Lights at the Arboretum
📍 Minnesota Landscape Arboretum, Chaska
An enchanting light display combined with festive music, perfect for family photos.
5. Union Depot’s North Pole Express
📍 St. Paul
Take your little one on a train ride to the “North Pole,” complete with holiday decorations and a visit from Santa.
6. Minneapolis Holiday Market
📍 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis
Browse local vendors while sipping hot cider or cocoa, and let your baby enjoy the sights and sounds of the bustling market.
7. Skate the Star at Mall of America
📍 Bloomington
If your baby isn’t quite skating yet, bundle them up and watch the fun while sipping cocoa by the rink.
8. Toys for Tots Donation Drives
Various Locations
Many organizations host donation events throughout the Twin Cities. Participating as a family is a great way to teach kindness and generosity.
Make It Yours
The best traditions aren’t about being elaborate—they’re about spending time together and creating memories. As your little one grows, these simple rituals will become the moments they look forward to every year.
And remember, the holidays are just as much about giving yourself grace as they are about making memories. Whether you check every box on your to-do list or just focus on snuggling under the tree with your baby, the magic of the season is already there.
If you try any of these ideas—or have traditions of your own to share—I’d love to hear about them! Here’s to a joyful, memorable holiday season for you and your growing family.
Warmly,
Lauren
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