December is just around the corner, and the Willmar Lakes Area is gearing up for a festive month filled with sparkling lights, heartfelt performances, community traditions, and cozy winter fun. Whether you’re searching for family activities, holiday shopping, live entertainment, or a cheerful night out, you’ll find something special happening all month long.

Bundle up, grab a warm drink, and explore all the joyful events waiting for you this December!

December 1-January 2 – Kandi Kane Lane
Join the fun at this year’s Kandi Kane Lane at the Kandiyohi County Historical Society! Create an ornament to take home, vote for your favorite decorated Christmas tree, write a letter to Santa, and take part in a festive scavenger hunt. Kandi Kane Lane is open during regular business hours (Monday–Friday, 9am–4pm) with select extended hours. Click the event title for full details.

December 2 – Home for the Holidays Benefit Concert
Enjoy an evening of incredible music for a great cause. This cozy, festive concert at Foxhole Brewhouse brings together outstanding local talent for a heartwarming holiday night.

December 3, 10, 17 – Sperry House Candle Light Tour
Step back in time with a candlelit tour of the historic Sperry House. Explore beautifully decorated rooms, listen to holiday stories, and enjoy a nostalgic glimpse into Christmases past.

December 6 – Holiday Boutique at the Willmar Community Center
Find unique holiday gifts, crafted items, and seasonal treats at this one-stop boutique—perfect for checking off your holiday shopping list.

December 6 – Willmar’s Winter Craft & Gift Expo
Shop local and support area makers while browsing handmade goods, décor, treats, and more. It’s the perfect place to discover thoughtful gifts for friends and family.

December 6 – Atwater Passport to Christmas
Make a day of holiday fun in Atwater! Start with kids’ activities and the Christmas Market at ACGC Elementary School, enjoy a chili soup supper, and don’t miss the beloved Santa Parade at 5:30pm. Afterward, head to Centennial Park for s’mores, sleigh rides, fireworks, and festive cheer. Visit participating businesses to fill your passport for a chance at prizes!

December 6 – CatPac Series “An Elvis Christmas”
Get ready to shake, rattle, and roll into the holidays! This Elvis tribute brings timeless holiday classics and toe-tapping entertainment to the stage.

December 4-7, 11-14 – The Barn Theatre Presents “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer”
Join Rudolph, Hermey, and the whole crew in this delightful, family-friendly holiday production filled with laughter, music, and classic Christmas spirit.

December 11-14 – GLLM 2025 Dinner Theater
Enjoy a delicious four-course meal paired with an evening of theatre and music at Green Lake Bible Camp. This cherished Advent tradition supports the GLLM Annual Fund, helping provide Christ-centered camping and retreat opportunities for all ages. Tickets sell quickly, so don’t wait!

December 13 – 4th Annual Lakes Area Paddle Battle Pickleball Tournament
The competition heats up even in winter! Watch or participate as players bring their best to this energetic and exciting pickleball event.

December 13 – Kandi Kane Lane Holiday Fun Day
Celebrate the season with free admission to the Historical Society and fun for all ages! Enjoy a holiday bake sale, participate in a make-and-take craft, hunt for candy canes across the grounds, and say hello to Santa when he stops by at 10am.

December 13 – Vegas 131 Bull Ride & Cowgirl Christmas Vendor Market
Get ready for a high-energy night at Smilin’ D Arena & Events! The Vegas 131 Bull Ride sets the tone from 5–8pm, with the main bull ride at 7pm. Shop the Cowgirl Christmas Vendor Market from 5–11pm, enjoy the NFR Watch Party at 9pm, and dance the night away with live music by Kentucky Thunder until midnight. Try your luck at poker and blackjack, and come dressed to impress for VEGAS Best Dressed—it’s a night you won’t want to miss!

December 14 – Willmar Area Symphonic Orchestra Presents “Sounds of the Season”
Celebrate the holidays with an afternoon of beautiful music at the Willmar Education & Arts Center. Enjoy festive favorites and special chorus collaborations that will fill your heart with seasonal joy.

December 19-21 – ATLAS Presents “City Sidewalks”
Travel back to Brooklyn in 1959 for this touching holiday production. A struggling theatre custodian reconnects with an old army friend as the troupe prepares a heartfelt Christmas show. With tensions bubbling backstage, the story asks whether friendship and forgiveness can bring everyone together in time to share a message of peace.

December 20 – Intuition Brewing’s 2nd Birthday Party
Celebrate two years of craft brews and good vibes! Enjoy special releases, live music, a competitive trivia tournament, and a festive party atmosphere at Intuition Brewing.

December 27 – Nog Night at Intuition Brewing
Indulge in delicious spiked eggnog all day long! Stay for an evening performance by sister duo Donna Nelson and Deb Fischer as they play a variety of hits from 5–8pm. It’s the perfect night to gather with friends and enjoy festive drinks and music.

December 31 – NYE Bingo
Ring in the New Year with a fun-filled afternoon of family-friendly bingo! Enjoy a variety of prizes, light refreshments, and a festive close to 2025.

And the Fun Continues All Month Long!

Willmar WarHawk Home Games
Cheer on the home team all December long as the WarHawks bring energy, excitement, and community spirit to the ice.

Festival of Trees
Stroll through The Barn Theatre and admire dozens of beautifully decorated trees—each one a true work of holiday art.

Celebrate the Light of the World
Drive through this breathtaking holiday light display and feel your heart glow with the magic of the season.

With so many events happening throughout the Willmar Lakes Area, December is truly one of the most magical times of the year. More events are added regularly, so be sure to check our Events Calendar for the latest updates.

Happy holidays, and we hope to see you out celebrating all month long!