The Minneapolis-Saint Paul area is buzzing with vibrant holiday spirit and plenty of activities to keep you engaged this week. Whether you're a local or just visiting, here are some exciting events you won't want to miss:

Starting off today, immerse yourself in the festive beauty at the Holidazzle in Loring Park. This magical village offers a mix of local artisan vendors, ice skating, and sparkling lights that create the perfect holiday atmosphere. Open daily through the weekend, this free event is perfect for families and friends looking to capture the holiday spirit.

For music lovers, the Twin Cities Jazz Festival is hosting a special holiday concert tonight at the Dakota Jazz Club. Enjoy an evening with exceptional performances from local jazz musicians with a sprinkling of holiday classics. Reservations are recommended as this cozy venue fills up quickly.

Art enthusiasts should make their way to the Walker Art Center for an enchanting exhibition called "Winter Light." This unique installation transforms the outdoor gardens with large-scale light sculptures that interact with the wintry environment. The exhibition runs throughout the week, offering both day and night viewing experiences.

If theater is more your scene, do not miss the Guthrie Theater's production of "A Christmas Carol." This timeless classic brings the story of Ebenezer Scrooge to life with a local twist. Shows are running daily, and tickets are selling fast, so grab yours sooner rather than later.

For those interested in something more hands-on, head to the Minnesota History Center on Wednesday for a special "Holiday Bread Baking" workshop. Learn to make traditional holiday breads and take some home to share with loved ones. This interactive event is a delightful way to connect with seasonal traditions.

As we roll into the weekend, Saturday kicks off with the Minneapolis Craft Market at the Union Depot, one of the Twin Cities' largest artisanal markets, featuring handmade gifts from local craftspeople. It’s the ideal opportunity to find unique presents and support local artists.

Saturday night, make sure to stop by the WinterSkate in downtown Saint Paul, where the outdoor ice-skating rink is an iconic winter activity. Rent a pair of skates and glide under the twinkling lights, savoring the crisp winter air.

Runners and outdoor enthusiasts should check out the Reindeer Run on Sunday morning at Lake Harriet. Don your favorite festive attire for this fun run, where costumes are encouraged and everyone goes home a winner with delicious hot cocoa at the finish line.

To wrap up your weekend, the Minnesota Orchestra is performing a special "Holiday Pops" concert on Sunday afternoon. This family-friendly program features joyful tunes and an appearance by a special guest from the North Pole, sure to delight audiences of all ages.

With so much happening in Minneapolis-Saint Paul this week, there's no shortage of things to see and do as you soak in the holiday cheer. Whether you're exploring lights, catching a performance, or gliding on ice, enjoy every moment of this enchanting time of year in the Twin Cities.