10 Small Minnesota Towns With Halloween Lights Worth The Trip

Ah, Minnesota! Land of lakes, loons, and legendary Halloween light displays. As you prepare for a hauntingly delightful road trip, let me be your ghostly guide. These ten small towns transform into enchanting wonderlands, with lights that twinkle like mischievous spirits. Buckle up for a journey filled with spooktacular sights!

1. Anoka

First up, we have Anoka, known as the “Halloween Capital of the World.” Yes, you read that right! Every year, this town goes all out with a light display that would impress even the most discerning ghosts. Picture streets aglow with jack-o’-lanterns smiling back at you. Now that’s something to write home about!

Anoka’s Halloween history dates back to 1920, making it one of the oldest celebrations in the country. A stroll downtown feels like stepping into a Tim Burton movie, where every corner is a new scene of ghoulish delight. It’s a parade of lights that dance along with the autumn breeze.

And if you’ve got little goblins in tow, Anoka’s community embraces them with open arms. The family-friendly atmosphere ensures that everyone leaves with a bag of treats and a heart full of Halloween magic. Now, who wouldn’t want to join in on such a storied tradition?

2. Stillwater

Next stop is Stillwater, where history and Halloween collide in a symphony of spooky lights. Perched on the banks of the St. Croix River, Stillwater offers an enchanting backdrop for its haunted festivities. Imagine cobblestone streets lined with lantern-lit buildings casting eerie shadows.

Stillwater knows a thing or two about setting the stage for spooky delight. The historic lift bridge becomes a canvas of light, turning into a beacon for all things mysterious. Wander along the river and let the shimmering reflections guide your way.

But don’t let the old-world charm fool you! Stillwater’s Halloween scene is as lively as a dancing skeleton. With a quaintness that invites exploration, this town ensures your Halloween experience is both chilling and charming. It’s a place where the past meets the present in a thrilling embrace!

3. Wabasha

Venture to Wabasha, a town with heartwarming charm and a touch of Halloween magic. As the home of the National Eagle Center, Wabasha takes flight with lights that transform it into a bewitching wonderland. Picture scarecrows standing sentinel along the riverbanks.

Wabasha’s Halloween lights create an inviting glow, wrapping the town in a cozy, festive hug. The streets, decorated with pumpkins and twinkling lights, reflect the community’s spirit and warmth. It’s a scene that feels straight out of a storybook.

Join the locals as they celebrate with a variety of events that make the town come alive. The neighbors’ friendly smiles and welcoming gestures assure you’ll feel right at home. If ever a town embodied the essence of community and Halloween cheer, it’s Wabasha!

4. Lanesboro

In Lanesboro, the artsy heart of Minnesota, Halloween becomes a masterpiece of lights and creativity. This picturesque town nestled in the bluffs is a canvas painted with vibrant hues of autumn and Halloween cheer. Local theater and shops join in the luminous festivities.

Every corner of Lanesboro is a brush stroke of imagination. The town’s vibrant arts community weaves Halloween magic effortlessly, turning ordinary streets into extraordinary displays. It’s a dazzling performance of lights that captivates the audience.

Engage with the lively community events that encourage creativity and connection. In Lanesboro, Halloween is not just a celebration; it’s an expression of art and life. So put on your best costume and join in the pageantry of light and laughter.

5. Grand Marais

Grand Marais, where the wilderness meets the water, offers a Halloween display as grand as its name. Imagine lights shimmering like stars on the shores of Lake Superior. It’s a hauntingly beautiful sight that captures the wild spirit of the North.

The harbor area becomes a focal point, with lights reflecting off the waves, creating an ethereal dance. The lighthouse, adorned with festive decor, stands as a beacon of Halloween joy, guiding locals and visitors alike.

While the surroundings are rugged, the community’s warmth and creativity shine through. From local shops to cozy cafes, Grand Marais’s Halloween spirit is as refreshing as the lake breeze. It’s a blend of nature and festivity that leaves a lasting impression on the soul.

6. Red Wing

Red Wing, known for its iconic shoes, steps up its Halloween game with lights that dazzle the senses. Historic buildings become storytellers in a town where every flicker of light adds to the narrative. The Red Wing Shoe store becomes the centerpiece of a spooky yet welcoming scene.

As you wander, the town’s rich history intertwines with the Halloween spirit, creating an atmosphere that’s both thrilling and nostalgic. It’s like walking through a tale where the pages are lit by the glow of ghoulish lights.

Join in the community’s festive events, where fun and fright come together in perfect harmony. In Red Wing, you’ll find Halloween is a celebration of tradition and togetherness, inviting all who visit to be part of the story.

7. Winona

Winona, a town brimming with academic charm, dresses up for Halloween with lights that illuminate its stately buildings. Nestled along the Mississippi, Winona’s streets are filled with pumpkins, creating an ambiance of festive delight.

The college campus becomes a living gallery, where creativity knows no bounds. Students and locals alike join in to light up the town, turning Halloween into a community art project. It’s an intellectual twist on the traditional celebration.

Wander through the historic districts, where every corner offers a new discovery. Winona’s Halloween lights are more than decoration; they’re a celebration of history, education, and community spirit. It’s a scholarly symphony of light that resonates with all who visit.

8. New Ulm

In New Ulm, Halloween takes on a Bavarian twist, where German heritage meets Halloween spectacle in a delightful dance of lights. With its charming clock tower standing guard, the town becomes a festival of glowing colors.

Bavarian-style buildings, normally rich with tradition, embrace the spooky season with flair. The Halloween lights add a playful touch to the picturesque setting, making it a visual treat for all visitors.

Join in the celebrations where culture and festivity intertwine seamlessly. New Ulm’s Halloween lights are not just about illumination; they’re a celebration of heritage, community, and the joy of the season. It’s a unique blend that enchants all who wander its streets.

9. Alexandria

Alexandria, where Viking legends meet Halloween lore, offers a light display that’s as bold as its heritage. The iconic Big Ole statue becomes the centerpiece, dressed in festive decor, commanding attention with its playful grandeur.

Downtown Alexandria sparkles with Halloween cheer, where local shops and eateries join in the fun. It’s a scene that blends history and modernity, creating a vibrant atmosphere that’s hard to resist.

Explore the lively streets filled with spooky surprises and friendly faces. Alexandria’s Halloween lights are an invitation to experience the town’s unique blend of tradition and playfulness. It’s a celebration that promises adventure and delights around every corner.

10. Ely

Ely, where wilderness whispers and Halloween lights twinkle, offers a breathtakingly unique experience. Nestled in the heart of nature, Ely’s Halloween display is a tribute to its serene surroundings, where lights dance like stars in the sky.

The town’s cozy shops and streets become canvases of creativity, each adorned with spooky decorations. It’s a celebration that embraces the wild spirit of Ely, where nature and festivity intertwine seamlessly.

Join the friendly locals as they share stories and warmth, creating a sense of community that resonates deeply. Ely’s Halloween lights are more than just a display; they’re a celebration of the harmony between nature and human creativity. It’s a magical blend that beckons all to explore its wonders.