The holiday season kicks off in Fargo with the annual Christkindlmarkt, a European-style open-air market, running from November 24 to 26 and again from November 28 to 30 at the Fargo Civic Center. This festive event promises to attract visitors with a variety of holiday gifts and goods, alongside a lineup of entertainment and activities.
Vendors will set up along the mall between the Civic Center and the Fargo Public Library, offering a range of products. Guests can enjoy marshmallow roasting over open fires and live blacksmithing demonstrations. Inside, there will be food and beverage options, as well as more vendors and performers scheduled throughout the event. A key highlight of the first weekend includes a tree lighting ceremony at 6 p.m. on Friday, coupled with previews of the beloved “Nutcracker” ballet. Admission is $10 for adults, while children aged 17 and under can enter for free.
Alongside the market, comedian Jamie Lissow will bring his family-friendly humor to the Fargo Theatre on Thursday, November 23. The performance is part of his Better Off Dad tour, with tickets priced at $37. Lissow has gained popularity as a regular on the late-night political satire show “Gutfeld!” on FOX News.
For those looking to complete their holiday shopping, the Pride of Dakota Showcase will take place on November 24 and 25 at Scheels Arena. This event features more than 150 regional vendors showcasing a diverse array of products, including arts and crafts, apparel, baked goods, and more. Admission to this showcase is free.
The Fargo-Moorhead Opera will also contribute to the holiday festivities with performances of “Amahl and the Night Visitors” at the Hjemkomst Center in Moorhead. The one-act opera by Gian Carlo Menotti tells the story of a poor boy and his mother as they encounter the three wise men. Showtimes are set for 6:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, with a matinee at 2 p.m. on Sunday. Tickets are available for $21.
On Saturday, students from Minnesota State University Moorhead will present “The Cafeteria Duckling,” a modern adaptation of Hans Christian Andersen’s tale “The Ugly Duckling.” This original performance, set during a school lunch hour, examines themes of fitting in and self-discovery. The free show begins at 2 p.m., but reservations are required.
Additionally, the Holy Cross Catholic Church in West Fargo will host its 16th annual craft and vendor show on Saturday, featuring over 85 makers selling a wide variety of handmade products. The event runs from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. and includes lunch options for purchase, with a nominal admission fee of $2.
Art enthusiasts can attend a talk by Carl Oltvedt at the Rourke Art Gallery + Museum on Saturday afternoon. Oltvedt, a former teacher who has remained influential in the art scene, will discuss his recent works featuring local wildlife. The reception is open to the public from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m., with a gallery talk scheduled for 2 p.m..
These events mark a vibrant start to the holiday season in Fargo, offering a range of activities for residents and visitors alike.
