Our Favorite MN Holiday Light Displays of 2025

January 9, 2026

The Twin Cities truly outdid themselves this year, transforming the long, cold nights into a dazzling panorama of festive light. As your local holiday lighting experts, we at Rainbow Holiday Design toured the best designs of the Minneapolis and St. Paul area to bring you our favorite displays from the 2025 season. Whether you like synchronized shows, intricate changing colors, or charming classic Holiday light displays, there is something for everyone.

The Synchronized Spectacle: Lights on Fresno Street

This year’s clear winner for technical brilliance was the legendary “Lights on Fresno Street” display in Elk River. What started as one homeowner’s elaborate vision has now spread to six neighboring houses, all perfectly synchronized to a 20-minute loop of holiday music broadcast on a low-power FM radio station (106.5 FM). The sheer scale and precision of the color-changing LED display were breathtaking. From the leaping reindeer silhouettes to the cascading icicle effects, it was a masterful blend of old-school charm and modern technology.

Address: 18016 Fresno ST NW Elk River, MN 55330

The Classic Festival: St. Paul Winter Carnival

For those who prefer a more traditional winter festival experience, the Saint Paul Winter Carnival is the oldest winter festival in the U.S. Established in 1886 to celebrate Minnesota’s winter, based on a legend of King Boreas (winter) battling Vulcanus Rex (spring). Large, perfectly wrapped trees, window outlines in warm white C9 bulbs, and the subtle sparkle of delicate net lights on evergreens. The event features parades, family activities, and ice attractions, including the building of ice palaces. Organized by the Saint Paul Festival and Heritage Foundation, this vibrant tradition highlights community pride and the unique appeal of winter in the Twin Cities. Sometimes the most beautiful displays are those that honor the classic heritage of Christmas festivals.

The Drive-Thru Delight: Sever’s Holiday Lights

The annual Sever’s Holiday Lights has expanded this year to include over 2,500,000+ holiday lights that can be enjoyed from the comfort of your car. Utilizing string lights, animated vignettes, and archways, the experience offered a safe, warm way to enjoy a massive display. Our favorite part? The displays dance in time to the best songs of the season. Plus, there are food and drink vendors that are sure to make everyone in the car happy.

The Homeowner Hero: Candy Cane Lane

Every year, a few dedicated homeowners go above and beyond, and 2025’s standout was a private residence in Roseville known as “Candy Cane Lane.” This homeowner transformed their entire yard into a whimsical, walk-through winter wonderland complete with hand-crafted props, playful animal scenes, and, of course, thousands of lights. They strategically used colored spotlights on trees and bushes to create depth and drama, proving that thoughtful design can make a big impact. They also partnered with Every Meal, blending community spirit with holiday cheer.