As we rush from store to store, wait in line at the post office, and continue checking items off numerous lists, remember to take some time for yourself to enjoy the little holiday celebrations. Perhaps that’s not possible this year, but if it is, I’ve rounded up a few food related activities to keep the festive mood.

(credit: Crystal Grobe)

Black Forest Inn – Christmas Market
December 22nd and 23rd; 12pm – 6pm
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The German Christmas cookies from Black Forest Inn are my favorite because they are unlike anything I’d make during a traditional cookie exchange. Order a mixed dozen or just your favorites and stop by this weekend for a springerle cookie making demonstration at 3pm on Saturday and Sunday. If you want to try your hand at making these beautiful anise flavored cookies, Black Forest Inn also sells the molds.

Holidazzle Parade
November 23rd – December 23rd; 6:30pm
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If you haven’t gone to the Holidazzle, here’s your year to check it out. The weather is relatively mild and there are so many food options nearby. Watch the parade at 6:30pm and then duck into a restaurant on Nicollet Mall like Masa, Vincent, Barrio, or Brit’s for dinner. Alternatively, grab hot chocolate (and mini donuts if Chef Shack is around) and get some shopping done since stores are open later this week.

British Arrow Awards – Walker Art Center
November 30th – December 30th
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Although the British Arrow Awards have nothing to do with the holidays, it’s a great opportunity to get away from the holiday hubbub and have a good laugh while watching the best of British advertising at the Walker Art Center. Be sure to check out the pop-up Walker Pub serving British fare for the month of December for your fix of Scotch eggs and a Pimm’s cup.

Elf The Broadway Musical – Ordway Center for the Performing Arts
Now – December 30th
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I’ve been hearing wonderful things about Elf at the Ordway and it makes me wish I had planned ahead for an evening out with friends. Tickets are still available and the Ordway has partnered with nearby restaurants like Forepaugh’s, Bennett’s Chop and Railhouse, American Burger Bar, Wild Thymes, and Bin on the Park to offer special Elf-themed food and drink menus.

Happy Holidays!

Disclosure: Black Forest Inn provided a mixed dozen for me to try and per usual, I was under no obligation to write about these cookies and all views are my own. They are dang good cookies!