Wander Minnesota: A Nordic Christmas

One place you can certainly find a great deal of holiday cheer is at the American Swedish Institute. Every year the Institute fills the beautiful historic Turnblad Mansion with depictions of holidays past. This year is no exception, and this year's theme is Tomtes, Elves, Giants, and Magical Friends.

On your arrival, you'll find an enchanted forest, complete with a tomte cottage, in the courtyard between the Turnblad Mansion and the Nelson Cultural Center. It sets the tone for the whimsical nature of the some of the mansion's exhibits.

There's grandeur on a large scale, but also little displays throughout that are worth taking your time to explore.

The Institute has several rooms set up for Christmas dinners, whether elaborate formal affairs:

Or lower-key events.

There's an elf's work station:

And a baking area.

There's a cozy, gather-round-the-fireplace room.

Along with exhibits detailing myths and fairy tales from Scandinavian countries, the Institute invited the Museum of Russian Art to participate.

As you can see, the Russian exhibit fits the overall theme perfectly.

This weekend, Dec. 5-6, the Institute hosts Julmarknad, a special holiday market featuring 33 local artists. And on Wednesdays through the end of the year, at 6:30 p.m., you can enjoy Stranger, an interactive roaming show presented by local theater group Impossible Salt.

Also: the Institute's restaurant, Fika, is offering its seasonal glögg—so allow time after visiting the Mansion for a sip and small plate.

What else is happening in our state? Be sure to check out the 10 p.m. Sunday night WCCO newscasts, where you can learn more in the weekly segment, Finding Minnesota.