Experience the Magic of the Season at These 5 Holiday Events in Rochester, Minnesota

We're officially in full swing with the holiday season, and there's no better way to experience the magic this time of year brings than to check out some of the fun holiday activities around Rochester.  Here are five family-friendly holiday events in you’ll want to mark on your calendar:

We've talked about the Mayowood Mansion on our blog before, and the holiday season gives you another reason to check out this historic Rochester landmark. The mansion is completely decked out in festive decorations, which is sure to give you some inspiration for your own apartment home. The tour provides a valuable history lesson to adults and children alike as the mansion has been home to three generations of the influential Mayo family.

This year's series of tours will run through Sunday, December 11. Admission for adults is $20 and $10 for children with free admission children age 5 and under.

This beloved Christmas story is a holiday classic for all and a guaranteed way to experience the magic of the season. The Charles Dickens performance will take place at the Rochester Civic Center through Sunday, December 18, and ticket prices are $31 for adults and $21 for students.

Are you looking for a fun way to encourage your family to be active? Look no further than this family-friendly, festive 5K run/walk. Registration is required, and all participants will receive their very own Santa suit to wear for the event. You can only imagine the hilarity of seeing hundreds of Santas in all sizes making a mad dash for the finish line! Stick around at the end of the race for caroling, s'mores, cookies, and hot chocolate.

Come hear the sounds of the season at this free, family-friendly holiday concert put on by the Choral Arts Ensemble. This annual event has become a favorite for Rochester residents and features some of the best music talent our community has to offer.

Want to experience the holiday lights throughout Rochester in a new and more exciting way? Take your family on a Jolly Trolley Holiday Light Tour, which offers evening tours to see the light displays in some of Rochester's most historic neighborhoods. Santa will be aboard most trolley rides through Friday, December 23, and the tours even include a visit to Santa's workshop. Tours sell out quickly, so reservations are recommended.

Are we missing any of your favorite Rochester holiday events? Share your recommendations in our comments section below!