Outdoor Candlelight Events in Minnesota

Spend an evening outside and make the best of winter with these outdoor candlelight events in Minnesota! Walk, snowshoe or ski through candles, luminaries or lanterns.

We thought we would share several fun outdoor candlelight events coming up throughout Minnesota. The common thread is that each of them includes some sort of luminary or candlelight.

Some are hiking or walking, while others include snowshoeing or cross country skiing. Each event is unique with different scenery offered. Several are free, however some have a small admission or advance registration required to participate.

We have provided links to each event for more information. It’s also important to mention that the weather does not always cooperate, so check with the individual event if there’s no snow or bad weather conditions.

We are sharing this list a little early so you can plan ahead but also so we can get a longer list. If you know of others that we have not mentioned, please let us know as we would love to include them in our roundup.

December 2024

Thursday, 12/19: Prior Lake – Cleary Lake Regional Park – Luminary Labyrinth & Winter Solstice Bonfire

We invite you to enjoy winter’s quiet beauty to prepare for the longest night of the year. Walk our softly lit Luminary Labyrinth, then gather by a warm bonfire with tea & hot cocoa. All ages welcome.

Saturday, 12/21: Dayton – Eastman Nature Center – Winter Solstice Luminary Walk

Celebrate the winter solstice and experience the beauty of the longest winter night by walking along a luminary lit trail. 

Saturday, 12/21: St. Louis Park – Westwood Hills Nature Center – Be The Light Winter Solstice Walk

Follow the luminary walk through the forest guided by visual messages from the community. Discover artist created lantern sculptures expressing the peace of wild things. Light a candle in honor or memory of someone who struggles with or struggled with mental health. Gather around a fire in the glowing winter light while surrounded by a dreamy winter soundscape.

Saturday, 12/28: Becker – Sherburne History Center – Candlelight Walk

Experience the beauty of the trails on the Oak Savannah by candlelight! Hike, ski, or snowshoe the candlelit trail and then warm up with some holiday treats, hot chocolate, and apple cider inside the History Center lobby. You don’t want to miss this once-a-year unique experience!

Tuesday, 12/31: Richfield – Wood Lake Nature Center – Candlelight and Ice

Follow hundreds of candle-lit luminaries on a walking trail through cattails, forest, and prairie. Warm up from the brisk winter evening with roasted marshmallows and hot cocoa by a crackling fire back at the amphitheater. Please note you must buy tickets ahead of time ($8/person).

Tuesday, 12/31: Eagan – Lebanon Hills Regional Park – Family New Year’s Eve Party by Candlelight

Celebrate all things winter with candlelight ice skating, walking, hiking, and snowshoeing. Stay for the famous ball drop at 7:59 pm. 1,000+ candle luminaries! Snowshoe rental available, s’mores and hot cocoa provided. Tickets are $8/person and are on sale beginning December 1st.

January 2025

Friday, 1/3: Fridley – Springbrook Nature Center – Lantern Light Hike

Bundle up and get ready to hike at Springbrook using the light of glowing lanterns to guide your way. Listen for owls hooting, keep your eyes peeled for elusive nocturnal animals, and warm up by the fire along the way. If snowpack allows, snowshoe rental will be available. Please check in at Springbrook’s front desk when you arrive for the Lantern Light Hike. $5/person, children 5 and under are free.

Friday, 1/3: Plymouth – Luce Line State Trail – Candlelight Walk

Winter wonderland and flickering candles come together for a magical experience on the Luce Line State Trail during the candlelight hike! This self-guided, self-paced trail is two miles round trip, out and back. Refreshments will be at the east end of the candle lit portion near Vicksburg Lane.

Friday, 1/10: Brooklyn Park – Historic Eidem Farm – Luminary Snowshoe

Explore the farm at night on snowshoes under the full moon! Walk the back loop and warm up by the campfire with hot chocolate and s’mores. This is a pre-registration event, limited quantities of snowshoes are provided. Feel free to bring your own if you have them. $8/person.

Saturday, 1/11: Carlos – Lake Carlos State Park – Candlelight Event

Come enjoy an evening in the park by candlelight and moonlight. Walk the trail where you will be guided by the full moon, candles and lanterns. Then come warm up by the wood stove or enjoy snacks and refreshments in the Lakeview warming shelter.

Saturday, 1/11: Carver – Minnesota Valley Wildlife National Refuge – Light and Seek Luminary Walk

Enjoy a family-friendly and peaceful night out that includes crafts and activities indoors and a full moon luminary hike on the trails! Please leave flashlights and dogs at home.

Saturday, 1/11: Park Rapids – Itasca State Park – Lantern Light Event

Please join us for the annual Lantern Light Event at Itasca State Park! Bundle up to walk, snowshoe, or ski at your leisure as the glow of candlelight guides your way through towering pines. Total trail length out-and-back is 3.5 miles following the South Entrance Road. It is a well-defined path with minimal elevation change. Adjust the distance to suit your fitness level.

Saturday, 1/18: New London – Sibley State Park – Luminary Hike

Enjoy the evening on a self-guided, lantern lit hike. Along the trail you’ll see luminaries decorated by members of the community. The Pond View Interpretive trail will be illuminated for the evening. It is a 0.7-mile loop with a maximum grade of 7 percent over 190ft. Before or after the trail, drop by the campfire to socialize. Light refreshments will be available in the Trail Center.

PS – If you’re local to the area, consider participating in the Luminary Decorating event a week prior.

Friday, 1/24: Stillwater – Gateway State Trail Candlelight Walk

This walk along Gateway State Trail will be lit with hundreds of candle luminaries – from near Wildwood Elementary school to one mile down the trail (roundtrip will be a 2 mile walk). Enjoy bonfires for warmth and roasting marshmallows on both ends of the lit trail section; hot chocolate, cider and marshmallows will be available at the Stillwater Rd end. Come and enjoy a walk along this Minnesota State Trail!

Friday, 1/24: West St. Paul – Thompson County Park – Trails by Candlelight

Enjoy parks by flickering candlelight. A variety of cross-country ski, snowshoe, hiking and walking trails​ will be lit with hundreds of candles. Warm up with hot cocoa and crackling bonfires. Hot cocoa provided. $8/person, children 5 and under are free. Tickets go on sale December 1, 2024.

Saturday, 1/25: Bemidji – Lake Bemidji State Park – Glow in the Snow Candlelight Snowshoe

Step into a winter wonderland on a twilight snowshoe adventure lit by the soft glow of candlelight. Follow the paths through snowy landscapes, experiencing the peaceful serenity of nature in the stillness of night. Stop by the Lavinia Group Camp to warm up around a cozy campfire and at the Visitor Center for live music, hot cocoa and other refreshments.

Saturday, 1/25: Duluth – Hartley Nature Center – Hartley Candlelight 2025

Luminaries will light the night sky as you Ski or snowshoe a candlelit loop. Explore the trails by headlamp on a fat tire bike or kicksled, or go for a trail running adventure on a pair of Hoka demo shoes. Warm up with hot cocoa in the nature center and you have the makings of a wonderful winter night. Pre-registration required; tickets start at $15.

Saturday, 1/25: Luverne – Blue Mounds State Park – Candlelight Hike

Discover the beauty of Blue Mounds State Park on a winter night by the glow of candlelight. Enjoy a self-paced hike along a path lit by hundreds of luminaries starting at the picnic shelter. Need a break from the cold? Head inside the picnic shelter for a cup of piping hot cocoa or soak up the warmth of a toasty campfire.

Saturday, 1/25: Mankato – Minneopa State Park – Candlelight Hike

Experience the beauty of Minneopa State Park at night with a candlelight hike through the scenic Minneopa Creek River Valley. Hike along a 1-mile loop illuminated by hundreds of candles, creating a magical winter wonderland. The self-guided hike is available anytime between 5 to 8 p.m., with potential additional trails depending on the weather and snow conditions.

Saturday, 1/25: Maple Lake – Robert Ney Regional Park – Lantern Ski

Join us at Ney Park for a night of Cross-Country Ski fun! The trails will be groomed and lit with lanterns to help guide you through the winter wonderland of Ney Park. Inside the Nature Center, there will be sweet treats and warm drinks to enjoy. Once you have your treats and drinks, you can head outside to sit fireside to warm your toes. Optional ski rental is $5.

Saturday, 1/25: Mora – Nordic Center Ski Area – Lantern Loppet

Come out for a beautiful night to ski by lamp light! Events will start at dusk. There will be fires, friendship, marshmallows, hot chocolate, and of course some skiing. The Lantern Loppet will be held at the Nordic Center ski area in Mora. There will be a beautiful course through the woods lit by lanterns. Come and enjoy. Join us as the sun goes down and ski into the night.

Saturday, 1/25: Nerstrand – Nerstrand Big Woods State Park – Candlelight Event

Grab your cross-country skis, snowshoes, or warmest winter boots to experience the beauty of Nerstrand Big Woods State Park by candlelight! Complete your night by warming up next to a bonfire with cider and cookies. A limited number of snowshoes are available to rent on a first come-first served basis. Ski trails will be dependent on snow conditions. This event is held outside, so dress for winter weather.

Saturday, 1/25: Owatonna – Brooktree Golf Course – Luminary Hike

Join us for a magical evening stroll through Brooktree Golf Course, lit by hundreds of glowing luminaries. Your journey will take you along winding pathways through snow-covered trees, past frozen streams, and under twinkling stars. Along the way, you’ll enjoy a storybook, warm winter refreshments, and opportunities to enjoy the natural world around you.

Wednesday, 1/29: Bloomington – Richardson Nature Center – Lantern-lit Kicksledding

Try out a Scandinavian-style kicksled on a lantern-lit pond under the light of the stars. Bring your own s’mores to enjoy by a campfire. The nature center will stay open during the program to warm up and check out the exhibits. No reservations needed. Drop in anytime. Free.

Thursday, 1/30: Faribault – River Bend Nature Center – Luminary Snowshoe Hike

Enjoy the quiet of winter with a luminary hike through River Bend. Trails are packed snow, participants are welcome to bring their own snowshoes. Hot chocolate provided. Pre-register for an entry time. Rentals available.

February 2025

Saturday, 2/1: Duluth – Boulder Lake Environmental Learning Center – Candle Light Ski and Snowshoe

Join us for a fun-filled, tiki-lit evening at Boulder Lake’s Wolfski Ski Welcome Center on Saturday, February 1st! Ski the 1.5-mile Bear Paw Trail, perfect for both skate and classic skiing, winding through gentle rolling slopes. Snowshoe 0.5 miles on our scenic trails to the Britton Lodge, where you’ll enjoy a cozy fire, hot chocolate, and s’mores! Hawaiian shirts are optional! Adults $10, kids $5, kids 5 and under free.

Saturday, 2/1: Eyota – Chester Woods Park – Candlelight Hike

Candlelight hike around the Chester Lake Trail. This runs from 5:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m. Dress for the outdoors, no indoor warming station available.

Saturday, 2/1: Hastings – Afton State Park Candlelight Walk

This walk through Afton State Park will be lit with hundreds of candle luminaries for 3 mile loop trail. Enjoy bonfires at the visitor center and half way point. Leashed dogs are welcome. Ice traction devices are always recommended when walking in winter.

Saturday, 2/1: Lake City – Hok Si La Park – Hok Si La by Moonlight

Join us for our annual luminous winter walk/snow shoe/ski event and experience enchantment at Hoksila Park under the (almost) full moon! Flickering candlelit paths will guide you through an evening of warmth and connection. The tranquility of the park by moonlight is sure to create memories that glow forever.

Friday, 2/7: Hastings – Spring Lake Park Reserve – Trails by Candlelight

Enjoy parks by flickering candlelight. A variety of cross-country ski, snowshoe, hiking and walking trails​ will be lit with hundreds of candles. Warm up with hot cocoa and crackling bonfires. Hot cocoa provided. $8/person, children 5 and under are free. Tickets go on sale December 1, 2024.

Friday, 2/7: Fridley – Springbrook Nature Center – Lantern Light Hike

Bundle up and get ready to hike at Springbrook using the light of glowing lanterns to guide your way. Listen for owls hooting, keep your eyes peeled for elusive nocturnal animals, and warm up by the fire along the way. If snowpack allows, snowshoe rental will be available. Please check in at Springbrook’s front desk when you arrive for the Lantern Light Hike. $5/person, children 5 and under are free.

Saturday, 2/8: Bemidji – Lake Bemidji State Park – Twilight Trails Candlelight Ski

Join us for an enchanting evening of skiing under a canopy of stars and the gentle glow of candlelight. Experience the beauty of the snow-covered landscape as you glide along our beautifully lit trails. After your ski, gather around a campfire at the Dining Hall to warm up and roast marshmallows and stop by the Visitor Center for live music by Louis Samsa from 7-8 p.m., hot cocoa and refreshments.

Saturday, 2/8: Carlos – Lake Carlos State Park – Candlelight Event

Come enjoy an evening in the park by candlelight and moonlight. Walk the trail where you will be guided by the full moon, candles and lanterns. Then come warm up by the wood stove or enjoy snacks and refreshments in the Lakeview warming shelter.

Saturday, 2/8: Carlton – Jay Cooke State Park – Candlelight Ski, Snowshoe, Walk Event

Ski, snowshoe, or hike on trails lit by luminaries. Warm up by the fire afterwards with some hot cocoa. Stop in anytime during this ongoing event. Adult and children’s snowshoes are available to rent. Meet at the River Inn Visitor Center.

Saturday, 2/8: Center City – Wild River State Park – Candlelight Ski/Snowshoe/Hike

Five miles of winter trails will be illuminated by candles to guide you through an annual winter tradition at Wild River! Snowshoers, skiers and walkers are welcome to take to the trails. Warm yourself next to an enormous bonfire and participate in activities throughout the park.

Saturday, 2/8: Fairfax – Fort Ridgely State Park – Candlelight Trails

Get outside this winter and see the wonders of Fort Ridgely State Park at night, with hundreds of candle luminaries to light your way through some of the most scenic trails. There will be two loops to choose from to create your own adventure for a truly unique winter experience! Warm up and spend time with friends and family over campfires and enjoy free hot chocolate available at the Chalet.

Saturday, 2/8: Frontenac – Frontenac State Park – Candlelight Event

Come enjoy an evening in the park by candlelight! Snowshoe, ski, or hike the trail along the bluff top with beautiful views of the Mississippi River Valley, lit by dozens of luminaries and the light of the full moon. Warm up at campfires at either end of the trail or enjoy some light refreshments by the wood stove in the warming shelter. Refreshments provided by the Frontenac State Park Association volunteer group.

Saturday, 2/8: Minneapolis – Luminary Loppet

Come to the Luminary Loppet to experience a walk around Lake of the Isles. The trail is lit up by over 1,200 luminaries and unique ice features including the ice pyramid and more – all in the heart of Uptown! Find refreshments such as hot cocoa and s’mores along the trail and then head over to the party area for food trucks, Utepils Brewing beer and music! Tickets start at $15 for youth and $25 for adults.

Saturday, 2/8: Onamia – Mille Lacs Kathio State Park – Candlelight Event

Enjoy snowshoeing (skiing or hiking if conditions permit) by the light of the moon, with candle luminaries to help guide the way. Ski and snowshoe rental is available on a first-come, first-served basis. After exploring the trails, visitors can warm up while they enjoy hot cider and cookies at the Interpretive Center.

Thursday, 2/13: Faribault – River Bend Nature Center – Date Night Luminary Snowshoe Hike

Enjoy the quiet of winter with a luminary hike through River Bend. Trails are packed snow, participants are welcome to bring their own snowshoes. Hot chocolate provided. Pre-register for an entry time. This is an adults-only date night (18+).

Saturday, 2/15: Albert Lea – Myre-Big Island State Park – Candlelight Event

Park in the picnic grounds parking lot to enjoy a candlelit path through the woods. Enjoy a cookie and cider by a toasty fire in the picnic shelter after.

Saturday, 2/15: Bloomington – Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge – Candlelight Trail & Community Night

Enjoy the warmth of community on a winter evening at the refuge! Take a walk on our candle lit luminary trail and get cozy in the Visitor Center as we celebrate the season. Activities for all ages include Winter Storytelling with Hope Flanagan, sharing stories of Indigenous culture & traditions, a screening of the ‘Bold North’ documentary, nature crafts and more!

Saturday, 2/15: Henderson – Ney Nature Center – Candlelight Event

Free event! Enjoy this beautiful winter night snowshoeing, hiking, or skiing by candlelight along our peaceful trails. Stop in the education building to say hi and grab a cup of cocoa or a s’mores ticket to take with you to the S’more Stop next to the pond.

Saturday, 2/15: Norwood Young America – Baylor Regional Park – Candlelit Night at Baylor

Glide through candlelit trails on cross country skis, or throw on a pair of snowshoes to check out the luminaries. Climb aboard the hayride for a trip to the Eagle Lake Observatory and view the stars with the Minnesota Astronomical Society. Slide around on some kicksleds, and then warm up with hot cocoa, cider, and s’mores, or grab a bite to eat at the Pizza Karma food truck! Cost is $7-$12/person.

Saturday, 2/15: Park Rapids – Itasca State Park – Lantern Light Event

Please join us for a Lantern Light Event at Itasca State Park this holiday weekend! Bundle up and let the glow of candlelight guide you on an enchanting stroll to the headwaters of the Mississippi River. Sit quietly under twinkling stars and listen to the mighty river as it continues to flow across the frozen landscape. The total length of this loop trail is a 1/2 mile.

Saturday, 2/15: Two Harbors – Gooseberry Falls State Park – Candlelight Event

Join us for a special evening of winter fun at Gooseberry Falls State Park for an unforgettable experience skiing, snowshoeing, or hiking. Begin at the Visitor Center and follow glowing luminaries along the trail. A bonfire and marshmallows await at the Lady Slipper Amphitheater and hot beverages and cookies are available at the Visitor Center.

Saturday, 2/15: Watson – Lac Qui Parle State Park – Lake Which Speaks Candlelight Hike

Less than a mile of a hike on packed snow or mowed trail lit with ice luminaries and real candles to reach the historic WPA warming shelter for a treat of hot cocoa and smores’. Parking is at Group Camp 2 (Lac qui Parle Group Camp on Google Maps). Please also bring a flashlight as there may be some candles that go out. Wear clothing for the weather and boots with good support. The moon will be up during the event though just past full moon.

Saturday, 2/22: Norwood Young America – Baylor Regional Park – Candlelit Night at Baylor

Glide through candlelit trails on cross country skis, or throw on a pair of snowshoes to check out the luminaries. Climb aboard the hayride for a trip to the Eagle Lake Observatory and view the stars with the Minnesota Astronomical Society. Slide around on some kicksleds, and then warm up with hot cocoa, cider, and s’mores, or grab a bite to eat at the Pizza Karma food truck! Cost is $7-$12/person.

Saturday, 2/22: Pelican Rapids – Maplewood State Park – Candlelight Trek

Maplewood State Park is a winter wonderland and this popular event is a must-do! Join us on a one-mile trek around Cataract Lake, lit by 150 candles. Ski, walk, snowshoe, or just chat around the campfire with friends, enjoy hot chili, smores, bars, and hot drinks. Chili will be ready to serve by 5:00 p.m., and candles will be lit from 6:00-8:00 p.m. Location is the Trail Center.

Saturday, 2/22: Waskish – Big Bog State Recreation Area – Winter’s Glow Candlelight Snowshoe

Experience the magic of a winter evening on a serene snowshoe walk along the Old Caribou Camp Trail illuminated by the soft glow of candlelight. Wander in peace under the starlit sky, surrounded by the quiet beauty of nature in winter. This enchanting woodland experience is perfect for all skill levels, providing a unique way to enjoy the season’s tranquility.

March 2025

Friday, 3/7: Fridley – Springbrook Nature Center – Lantern Light Hike

Bundle up and get ready to hike at Springbrook using the light of glowing lanterns to guide your way. Listen for owls hooting, keep your eyes peeled for elusive nocturnal animals, and warm up by the fire along the way. If snowpack allows, snowshoe rental will be available. Please check in at Springbrook’s front desk when you arrive for the Lantern Light Hike. $5/person, children 5 and under are free.