The holidays are coming up fast, and while it’s easy to get swept up in shopping, decorating, and checking off your to-do list, it’s important to remember what truly matters. Goal #1 should always be creating amazing memories with your family and friends.

For more than ten years, my family has made it a tradition to visit Minnesota’s longest drive-thru Christmas light show. This free event is something we look forward to every year. It's so much fun to grab some snacks at their concession stand, check out the Christmas lights and displays, and visit with Santa and the reindeer.

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One of the benefits of it getting dark early is being able to see the Christmas lights before dinnertime. Our tradition is to go see the lights and then go for pizza afterwards.

Plan Your Visit to Minnesota’s Longest Drive-Thru Christmas Light Show

The Kiwanis Holiday Lights experience is completely free (they do accept donations for local charities, so consider bringing canned goods or a few dollars to give).

This attraction features millions of sparkling lights, along with Santa, Mrs. Claus, and even live reindeer.

Here are some photos of this spectacular holiday light show, and below you'll find all of the info you need to know, including dates, hours and location, to make this one of your family's favorite holiday traditions.

Minnesota’s Longest Drive-Thru Light Show

The Kiwanis Holiday Light Display is free, but cash and non-perishable food donations are accepted. All money collected is given to area non-profits. Since opening in 2012 the event has raised nearly $1,00,000 for local charities.

Gallery Credit: troy dunken

Kiwanis Holiday Lights Hours and Location

  • Dates: November 27–December 31, 2026
  • Location: Sibley Park, Mankato, MN
  • Hours: Sunday–Thursday: 5:00–9:00 PM, Friday & Saturday: 5:00–10:00 PM
  • Parking: CHS lots, ball fields, limited in-park, or on-street
  • Donations: Cash & non-perishable food
  • Concessions available: Cocoa, cider, mini donuts, candy, and more
  • Dogs not allowed

Highest-Rated Free Things to do in Minnesota, According to TripAdvisor

Stacker compiled a list of the highest rated free things to do in Minnesota from Tripadvisor.

Gallery Credit: Stacker