Kiwanis Holiday Lights in Mankato features 2 million LED lights plus lots more holiday fun in this free event in Sibley Park.
If you live in south central Minnesota or are up for taking a road trip from elsewhere, Kiwanis Holiday Lights in Mankato should definitely be on your list of holiday excursions! This is the 12th year for this event. It takes place at Sibley Park.
The event runs nightly from November 29 through December 31, 5 – 9 pm Sundays through Thursdays and 5 – 10 pm Fridays and Saturdays.
They have special events and attractions planned for nearly every night, and it’s all FREE!
They do accept cash and nonperishable food donations. You are able to drive through the park or walk.
My brother has been volunteering at this event since the start and it is really something! We previously drove through it after Christmas (December 28, to be exact) and the initial hubbub had died down by that point so we were able to take our time and not have to wait in line. Another tip is to visit during the week or go earlier in the evening to avoid the larger crowds.
This celebration of holiday lights for the Greater Mankato area and region builds on past traditions and promotes the communities we serve, while raising non-perishable food donations for those in need. (Last year they collected 11 tons of food!)
Admission is free for all vehicles and walkers. Food and cash donations are accepted and appreciated. *Please note we only collect cash and food donations within the lights display area in Sibley Park. No other organizations or individuals have been approved to collect donations on behalf of Kiwanis Holiday Lights.
Attractions include a display of over 2 million LED lights, animated lights, skating rink and warming house, horse-drawn wagon rides, Santa Claus, live reindeer, ice sculpting and more! Be sure to check out our Events page to learn what each day includes.
For more Christmas lights, see our BIG list of Minnesota Holiday Light Shows!
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Laura is a kindergarten teacher and a busy mom of six who loves finding smart ways to save. A former high school English teacher, Laura now balances her teaching career with family life, always on the lookout for deals that help stretch her budget while keeping things fun.
Originally from southern Minnesota, Laura has called the Twin Cities home for over fifteen years. On the off chance she gets some free time, you’ll find her with her nose in a book, spending time with family and friends, or enjoying a hot cup of coffee.
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