Holiday shopping, twinkling lights, visits with Santa and… waterslides? Yes, please!
If you’re looking for family-friendly holiday activities near the Twin Cities, Maple Grove is the place to be this season. From festive shopping and Christmas celebrations to an exciting indoor waterpark getaway, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
The best part? You can turn a fun holiday outing into a whole weekend of memories with a stay at Holiday Inn & Suites Maple Grove–Arbor Lakes, home to Venetian Indoor Waterpark.
Here are some holiday happenings you won’t want to miss.
1. Santa, Shopping & Sparkle at The Shoppes at Arbor Lakes
Saturday, December 5, 2026 | 3–6 p.m.
Cost: FREE
Get ready for one of Maple Grove’s most festive holiday celebrations!
Santa at The Shoppes at Arbor Lakes brings holiday cheer to the heart of Maple Grove with an afternoon full of activities for the whole family.
Enjoy:
- Visits with Santa and festive photo opportunities
- A holiday market and Christmas shopping
- Live carolers and entertainment
- Holiday crafts and activities for kids
- The Parade of Lights at 4:30 p.m.
- Christmas tree lighting at 5 p.m.
2. Skate, Celebrate & Visit Santa at the Loop
Saturday, December 12, 2026 | 4–7 p.m.
Cost: FREE, bring your own skates or rent a pair on-site
There’s something magical about enjoying the outdoors in Minnesota during the holidays, especially with colorful Christmas lights and Santa nearby!
Head to Maple Grove’s Central Park for Santa at the Loop, a festive evening featuring holiday music, seasonal cheer, the Maple Grove Rotary holiday lights and free photos with Santa.
It’s a great opportunity to bundle up, enjoy some winter fun and make a few holiday memories.
3. Discover Local Gifts at Maple Grove’s Indoor Holiday Markets
November 24, December 10 & December 22 | 3–6 p.m.
Looking for thoughtful holiday gifts or delicious treats for your holiday gatherings?
The Maple Grove Indoor Farmers Market at the Maple Grove Community Center is a wonderful place to shop local this season.
Browse seasonal favorites, artisan breads, locally produced foods, specialty treats and unique finds from area vendors.
It’s an easy way to check a few names off your holiday shopping list while supporting local businesses.
And if you’re planning a weekend getaway, don’t forget to explore the many shopping and dining options throughout the Arbor Lakes area!
4. Shop ‘Til You Drop at Arbor Lakes
Between the holiday parties, gift lists and family gatherings, finding time to shop can feel like a holiday challenge of its own.
Why not make it part of the fun?
Maple Grove’s Arbor Lakes shopping district offers a fantastic mix of popular retailers, specialty shops, restaurants and seasonal activities.
Spend the afternoon checking off your Christmas shopping list, grab a bite at a nearby restaurant and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
Here’s an idea the kids will love: Make holiday shopping part of a family getaway by adding an overnight stay at Holiday Inn & Suites Maple Grove. After the shopping is done, reward everyone with some splash time at Venetian Indoor Waterpark!
5. Make a Splash Over Winter Break — Extended Holiday Hours!
December 25, 2026 – January 3, 2027
School’s out, holiday excitement is running high and Minnesota winter weather is officially here.
Looking for something fun to do with the kids during Christmas break?
Pack the swimsuits and head to Venetian Indoor Waterpark!
Located inside Holiday Inn & Suites Maple Grove–Arbor Lakes, our 25,000-square-foot indoor waterpark offers plenty of excitement for the whole family.
Kids will love:
- Two thrilling four-story waterslides
- The Bambini Piscina zero-entry play area for little swimmers
- Lily pad water challenges and basketball hoops
- An arcade for even more fun
Parents can enjoy the relaxing spa and the convenience of having shopping, dining and family entertainment nearby.
Even better, Venetian Indoor Waterpark is offering extended holiday hours!
The waterpark will be open during Christmas break, including select weekdays when the waterslides typically aren’t operating.
It’s a fantastic time to plan a Minnesota winter staycation without the hassle of traveling far from home.
Check our holiday waterpark hours before booking your stay.
6. Give the Gift of Memories This Holiday Season
Still searching for the perfect gift for the kids or grandkids?
Sometimes the best presents aren’t things you can wrap!
A family getaway filled with swimming, laughter, shopping and quality time together can create memories that last long after the decorations come down.
Whether you’re planning a holiday weekend, celebrating Christmas break or simply looking to escape the winter blues, Maple Grove makes it easy to enjoy a little getaway close to home.
And with Venetian Indoor Waterpark right inside the hotel, the fun doesn’t have to stop when the holiday festivities are over.
Ready to make a splash this holiday season?
BOOK YOUR HOLIDAY WATERPARK GETAWAY
Please note: Venetian Indoor Waterpark is exclusively available to registered hotel guests. Water slides and lily pads generally operate on weekends and during designated extended holiday hours. The pool and spa are open daily. Please review hours before planning your visit.
Happy Holidays from all of us at Venetian Indoor Waterpark!