What's Blooming in Minnesota in December?

You'll Want to See This!

By Diana Pierce, Dec. 17, 2025

Credit: Como Conservatory Webcam

After the holiday meals are cleared and packages put away, you might be up for adventure—before you settle in for your long winter’s nap.

In a recent poll, you told me what you wanted: Minnesota nature ideas, seasonal inspiration, and garden destinations. So here are adventures happening right now, whether you’re entertaining grandkids, meeting up with friends, or exploring solo.

Shhh... there’s learning tucked in, but don’t tell the kids. Just call it “adventures!"

Holiday Flower Show at Como

A warm winter escape filled with hundreds of poinsettias, colorful foliage, and festive blooms. A beloved tradition since 1925. 🗓 Runs through Jan. 4, 2026.

🎥 Watch it LIVE: See the Sunken Garden blooming in real-time on Como’s GardenCam https://comozooconservatory.org/mmc-sunken-garden-live/

Special events:

• Storytime with Santa — Wed., Dec. 17 at noon (today).

• Little Explorers — Thurs., Dec. 18, 10 am–noon (Santa visits at noon; ASL storytime at 10:30 am).

  
  

MN Landscape Arboretum

Winter Lights (Free for ages 15 & under)

Winter Lights at The Arb. Photo: Diana Pierce

The Arb Poinsietta Tree. Photo: Diana Pierce

• Family Night — Thurs., Dec. 18, 4:30–9 pm

• New Year’s Eve — Wed., Dec. 31, 4:30–9 pm

  
  

A bright way to welcome 2026—no midnight required. Perfect for multigenerational gatherings or a festive outing with friends.

🎨 Free Botanical Coloring Book (PDF): https://arb.umn.edu/sites/arb.umn.edu/files/2021-12/Botanical%20Coloring%20Book.pdf

Three Rivers Parks

Cardinal. Photo: Scott Bemman

Christmas Bird Count — Dec. 20, 9 am Lowry Nature Center · Free (registration required) Ages 11+ with adult

Winter Solstice Luminary Walk — Dec. 21, 5–8 pm, Eastman Nature Center · Free; optional donation to CROSS Food Shelf. All ages welcome.

Free Download: Winter Nature Detective Card

Turn winter walks into adventures—no prep required. I created this one-page, printer-friendly activity card for ages 4–7.

Perfect for parks, backyards, or neighborhood strolls during the holiday break.

👉 Download free: https://www.dianapierce.com/bloom-with-kids

What’s your favorite winter outing with family or friends?

Hit reply—I’d love to hear.

#bloomwithme

Diana