If you’re searching for family-friendly things to do with kids this week (December 8th - 14th) in Woodbury, Oakdale, Cottage Grove, Stillwater, and the greater East Metro, this roundup is filled with local holiday events and easy ways to make festive memories. With the Christmas season in full swing, families in Woodbury, Lake Elmo, Cottage Grove, Hastings, and surrounding areas have plenty of festive activities to enjoy. Be sure to check the local Events Calendar daily for new updates, added activities, and seasonal fun!
TOP FAMILY PICKS THIS WEEK
1. 🎅 Make your own Gingerbread House - Lake Elmo Library - Wednesday
Families are invited to join a beloved Lake Elmo Library holiday tradition: building a gingerbread-style house using graham crackers and candy. Perfect for kids ages 5 and up, this hands-on program encourages creativity, fine motor skills, and holiday cheer. A fun, festive way for families to celebrate the season together!
2. 🐶 Read to a Therapy Dog Tuesday – Bayport Library
Kids and teens of all ages can practice reading in a calm, supportive environment with Abbie and her gentle golden retriever, Allie. This family-friendly program helps build reading confidence, improves fluency, and offers stress-free interaction with a certified therapy dog. It’s perfect for young readers who want to strengthen skills while enjoying meaningful, heartwarming moments.
3. 🌲 Toddler Tuesday: Evergreen Trees – Sally Manzara Interpretive Nature Center – Tuesday
Toddlers and caregivers are invited to explore the wonders of evergreen trees and learn why these iconic holiday trees are important to the environment during winter. The popular Toddler Tuesdays program includes:
* 1-hour nature-themed storytime, take-home craft, and engaging movement game
* 30 minutes of free exploration, social time, and fun at the nature center
Program is designed for children ages 1–5 (cost $8 per child; adults and children under 1 attend free). Adults must accompany children. Time: 10:00–11:30 a.m.
4. 🚂CP Holiday Train – Hastings (Friday) & Cottage Grove (Saturday)
One of the season’s most magical experiences! The Holiday Train makes stops in:
Hastings: Friday, Dec. 12 | 8:45–9:15 p.m.
Cottage Grove: Saturday, Dec. 13 | 5:15–5:45 p.m.
Enjoy live performances by American Authors and Pynk Beard. Donations are encouraged. Dress warmly and check their webpages for parking tips.
5. 🛷 Holiday Weekend Events – Check the Calendar
Here are just a few of the many festive happenings this weekend: holiday markets, Santa sightings, and other family-friendly activities. No matter what your family chooses, this week offers simple, joyful ways to celebrate the season.
🎄🎅 Santa at Valley Creek Mall - December 13, 2025
🎄Holiday Review & Artisan Assembly - Newport - December 13, 2025
🎄🎵Sparklin', Dazzlin' Holiday Spectacular - Woodbury Middle School - December 13, 2025
🎄🎅Santa at Bridgeman's Ice Cream - December 13, 2025
🎅🎄Santa on the Farm - Bremer Farms Lights - December 13, 2025
🎄Pete The Cat Saves Christmas Toddler Time and Make & Take Workshop - Woodbury - December 14, 2025
🎄🎅 Bowl with Santa - Stillwater - December 14, 2025
Whatever your family’s holiday traditions, this week is full of joy, laughter, and festive magic. From cozy crafts and storytimes to magical train rides and weekend events, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Keep an eye on the Events Calendar—new activities are added daily so your family can make the most of this merry season!
I’m a local mom and the publisher of Macaroni KID Woodbury–Oakdale–Cottage Grove–Stillwater, your go-to guide for family fun in the South East Metro! Each week, I share a FREE weekly e-newsletter, update our family-friendly website, and highlight local events, activities, and small businesses. Subscribe today and never miss a local family adventure!
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