Thanksgiving is over and the holiday season is finally here! Whether you plan on spending your time with a loved one, family or friends, here are some great ways to spend your Christmas season in the beautiful state of Minnesota! Bundle up, and head to these fun spots to spend the chilly and snowy winter!

1. Holidazzle at Loring Park - Minneapolis, MN

Holidazzle has been an iconic event in the Twin Cities for years. They used to hold a giant parade in downtown Minneapolis, but the city has since changed the celebration a bit by now putting up an ice-skating rink and food and retail stalls in Loring Park. Holidazzle will be open to guests Thursdays - Sundays from November 24 -December 23, 2017. For a complete schedule and a list of participating vendors, check out their website!

2. Bentleyville - Duluth, MN

If you love Christmas lights, then Bentleyville is the place for you. This walk-through light display showcases more than four million lights, right next to Lake Superior. Taking a road trip to see America's largest light display will be fun for the whole family.

3. North Pole Express at Union Depot - St. Paul, MN

A great event for the whole family is the North Pole Express at the Union Depot. Nothing like a train ride and a visit with Santa to put the family in the Christmas mood!

4. Holiday Flower Show - St. Paul, MN

If you love the Como Zoo and Conservatory, you should definitely check out the Holiday Flower Show. Take a stroll through the conservatory during the first weekend of December to see beautiful flower displays for the holiday season.

5. Glensheen Mansion - Duluth, MN

To get out of the Twin Cities, head to Duluth and stop by the Glensheen Mansion. There are many different tour options, from the traditional one to nighttime flashlight or even kayaking tours. There are more than 25 Christmas trees throughout the house--just in time for Christmas.

6. Ice Skating at The Depot - St. Paul, MN

Ice skating at The Depot is a great event during the holidays! Grab some friends or a significant other and take them to the Union Depot to skate!

7. Ordway Theatre - St. Paul, MN

If you're looking for a great play to see, try visiting the Ordway Theatre. This year, "Annie" is being featured until December 31, 2017. There are also lights surrounding the building that will put you in the holiday spirit.

Bonus: St. Paul Winter Carnival

As an added bonus, try heading to the St. Paul Winter Carnival. Although it takes place after the holiday season, it is a festive weekend to enjoy the remainder of winter. There are parades, a royalty coronation, and many other events to try!

As Christmas approaches, try out any of these great experiences to get yourself into the holiday spirit. Plan out some weekends or evenings with family, friends or a significant other that'll help you enjoy your December in Minnesota and ease the pain of below-freezing temperatures.