Holidays in the Grove

HALE TO THE BIRD 5K

When three friends had a tradition to run the downtown Minneapolis turkey day run Thanksgiving morning, but found themselves frustrated with the parking, huge crowds, and inability to run at a comfortable speed, they decided to start their own Thanksgiving 5K right here in Cottage Grove!

Fliers were created, t-shirts were ordered and a charity was even chosen to support and receive any of the proceeds.

The organizers thought that if they could get 15 people signed up, that would be great, and now they get hundreds of runners each year! The Hale to the Bird 5K has become an annual event that continues to grow, but is proud to maintain the charm of a small run! For location and times, visit discovercottagegrove.com.

CITY HALL TREE LIGHTING

Every year on the first Wednesday of December, Santa comes to town riding a shiny red fire truck to kick off Cottage Grove’s holiday festivities. The Annual City Hall Tree Lighting is a hallmark of the city’s holiday events. Carolers, warm apple cider and cookies all add to the holiday charm. This is also a chance to get your photos with Santa and drop off the kids’ holiday wish lists in the mailbox for the North Pole!

Scan the QR code to view current and upcoming events.

City Hall Tree Lighting Hale to the Bird 5K

CANADIAN PACIFIC HOLIDAY TRAIN

Each December, hundreds gather to watch the festive Canadian Pacific (CP) Holiday Train roll through Cottage Grove. The colorfully lit line of train cars is decked out for the holidays in a cheery glow and for many families is an annual holiday tradition.

Often called North America’s largest rolling food bank fundraiser, the CP Holiday Train raises money, food and awareness for food banks and hunger issues across Canada and the United States.

“The Holiday Train is all about the community coming together over the holiday season and helping each other out with donations to local charities,” says E. Hunter Harrison, CEO of CP. “CP continues to be grateful that our train of lights and top musical talent are welcomed with open arms and that this has become a holiday tradition in our communities.”

SANTA BREAKFAST AND SLEIGH RIDE

Bring the whole family to River Oaks Golf Course for Breakfast with Santa! Hosted annually the second Sunday in December, admission includes a North Pole breakfast, time for a photo with Santa, a sleigh ride and s’mores! This event is the perfect way to get in a jolly holiday mood.

INSIDER INFO

▸ For more information and upcoming event dates, visit discovercottagegrove.com