ATTEND THIS DARK SKIES FESTIVAL TO SEE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS LIKE NEVER BEFORE
From Dec. 8 to 10, Cook County is hosting its third annual Dark Sky Festival. Cook County is home to some of the darkest skies in the world, and each year travelers from around the globe come to experience the northern lights. In 2020, the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness was named one of 13 certified International Dark Sky Sanctuaries in the world and, at over a million acres, it's the largest! With breathtaking views and activities for all to enjoy, this is one festival you won't want to miss.
There's no better place than the land of 10,000 Lakes to spend your winter holiday. Minnesota is home to a variety of winter activities – perfect for couples, friends or families to enjoy this chilly season. The state's cross-country ski trails are perfect for beginners to experts and everyone in between. Another fun way to get around is fat biking on two-wheelers with tires designed to provide traction in snow. Groomed fat biking trails can be found at scenic destinations throughout the state, including 50 miles to explore at Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area. Another unique opportunity for winter fun is dog sledding in the Boundary Waters. With options for both mushing the dogs yourself as well as riding in the sled, there are many ways to experience this once-in-a-lifetime activity. Also, the Riverbend Skate Path in Warroad, which was started by neighbors during the height of the pandemic and has since grown into the longest ice skating path in the U.S., is open to the public and free to use.
Make Merry at Mall of America®
At the largest shopping and entertainment center in North America, check out all the ways that MOA® is amping up the joy this holiday season, from the much anticipated $250 Holiday Rewards program, online shopping to get that list done, and a Black Friday weekend that's one for the ages. Don't forget, there is no sales tax on shoes and clothes! And for a truly special experience, visit Santa and his elves in the Candy Cane Institute at Mall of America (171 Central Parkway) where you can find out what merry mischief the elves are getting into as you take an elf guided tour through the experience.