After cancellation last year, Holidazzle returning to Minneapolis in new location

After funding challenges led to its cancellation in 2023, Holidazzle is returning to downtown Minneapolis this festive season.

The Minneapolis Downtown Council announced on Thursday that Holidazzle will be held the week before Christmas, and it is moving from its recent home at Loring Park to Nicollet Mall.

In recent years Holidazzle has been held on long weekends starting in late November and lasting for a month, but this year’s event is being streamlined to just five days, starting Weds. Dec. 18 and ending Sun. Dec. 22.

It will take over five blocks of Nicollet Mall from 6th Street to Peavey Plaza, and will be free to attend.

Attractions promised to Holidazzle visitors include the following:

• Light & art installations

• Holiday shopping pop-ups featuring Minneapolis Craft Market, Dayton’s Holiday Market, Chameleon Shoppes featuring BIPOC women-owned vendors, and Minneapolis Vintage Market

• Local food trucks

• Two entertainment courses

• Free Roller Skating and Minne-Golf

• Visits with Santa.

“Holidazzle is the perfect way to bring people together to celebrate our beautiful city in our winter season,” says Adam Duininck, president and CEO of the Minneapolis Downtown Council.

“From Minnesota-made treats to community performances to families making their holiday memories, it’s a true showcase of the talent, creativity, and spirit that makes Minneapolis shine!”

While the event is free, the downtown council will be offering “Friends of Holidazzle” passes that will give buyers access to valet parking, a “fast-pass” to see Santa, a souvenir and access to indoor bathrooms.

Holidazzle will be held between 4 pm and 9 pm Wednesday to Friday; noon to 9 pm Saturday, and noon to 6 pm Sunday.

You can find more information and a schedule of events at Holidazzle.com.

Related: Holidazzle in Minneapolis canceled for 2023 due to funding shortage