ASI's 72nd Holiday Experience

Exhibition on view Nov. 12-Jan. 8

For some, the holiday season at ASI is an important ritual, one that dates back over 70 years. For others, perhaps it is a secret waiting to be discovered.

There are so many things that make winter and the holiday season special, be it embracing darkness on winter Solstice to literally throwing the tree out the front door come January.

This year, the familiar meets the unexpected as ASI brings some of these secrets to life, cocreated by guest curators representing local communities of Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Iceland, Finland, the Sami Culture Center, and ASI’s behind-the-scenes group of dedicated volunteers. Each of these seven groups contributed their own secret to the experience— from that ‘must have thing’ for winter to that traditional trinket that gets placed on the mantel every year.

ASI is pleased to welcome back these local partners, including the Sami Cultural Center of North America joining again for their second season. Their installation, under the glow of the Northern Lights, shares objects from the Center’s material collection in Duluth, MN.

Founded in 2011, the Sami Cultural Center is dedicated to education about Sami and SamiNorth American history and culture. The Sami (Sámi, Saami, Same) are the indigenous people of Sámpi (northern Norway, Sweden, Finland, and the Russian Kola Peninsula). The Center serves descendants of Sami immigrants to North America and others interested in learning more.

Community Open House & Holiday Exhibit Opening

Sat, November 12, 10 am–4 pm

Kick off ASI’s 72nd Holiday Experience with a free day at ASI. Whether you’re a longtime member, or if this is your first time visiting, everyone is invited to explore the historic Turnblad Mansion and festive galleries for a day of holiday fun, activities, pop-up performances, bonfires, and more.

Free admission for all.

In addition to vibrant seasonal décor, we have also planned a few unique surprises around the Mansion - from an immersive installation which invites visitors to embrace the polar darkness to an opportunity to share your own secret. It seems Tomte, the Mansion’s household Swedish elf, has also been busy and has left a few surprises for you to discover as you explore the house.

While some decorations and featured objects change year to year, others are as consistent as Swedish meatballs. The festive table setting in the Dining Room will once again feature tableware belonging to the Turnblad family - set for a formal Christmas meal with a nod to the Turnblad family’s Swedish heritage.

Discover more about ASI’s collection and the guest communities at asimn.org.

ASI’s Holiday Experience is supported by Mike and Barb Nelson, and ASI’s members and donors. The exhibition’s Media Partner is the Star Tribune. Additional support provided by Danish Teak Classics.

Minnesota artist activity is made possible by voters of Minnesota through a Minnesota State Arts Board Operating Support grant, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage fund.