ASI’s Holiday Exhibition: Secrets of the Season

One of Minnesota’s most anticipated holiday experiences is now open for the American Swedish Institute’s 72nd annual holiday celebration. Explore an immersive all-ages holiday installation within the historic Turnblad Mansion, festive holiday events, and educational classes and workshops—this year with a secret twist.

The familiar meets the unexpected in this one-of-a-kind holiday experience that brings secrets of the holiday season to life. Explore the Mansion’s galleries and immerse yourself in experiences co-created by guest curators representing local communities of Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Iceland, Finland, the Sami Culture Center, and ASI’s behind-the-scenes group of dedicated volunteers. Each of these seven groups contributed their own secret to the experience—from that ‘must have thing’ for winter to that traditional trinket that gets placed on the mantel every year. Visitors will find vibrant seasonal décor and unique surprises around every corner of the Turnblad Mansion and ASI campus.

Find the perfect holiday gifts from local artisans at Julmarknad, one of the region’s largest handcraft markets, featuring live music, festival foods, hands-on activities for all ages, and more than 50 regional handcraft vendors. Let out your pagan side and celebrate the longest night of the year around warm outdoor fires (and maybe pet a reindeer!) at the Winter Solstice Celebration. Dare your friends to try lutfisk for the first time at a Lutfisk Dinner. Find out why Lucia wears a crown of candles at the Lucia Celebration Concert.

The ASI Museum Store’s Jul Shop opens November 10, with a curated selection of handmade and imported items. Shop in person or shop online to find the perfect gift for everyone on your list.

Don’t miss the holiday menu at FIKA Café, voted one of the best restaurants by MSP Magazine, where you’re sure to find the seasonal flavors of lingonberry and cardamom alongside some of the best meatballs and gravlax around.