Good morning, Rochester.

On Thursday, Lifegate Services hosted its annual Thanksgiving Drive-Through Lunch in Rochester, giving away 120 boxes of meals with fruits and drinks to community members.

The nonprofit celebrated its 10-year anniversary and partnered with sponsors such as Cub Foods — Trader Joe’s, Fresh Thyme, and Natural Grocers to help those affected by recent SNAP cuts.

Today the Kahler Grand Hotel’s Festival of Trees opens at 10 a.m. for community members to view decorated Christmas trees—proceeds will support Hiawatha Homes that helps people with disabilities.

The event will continue with varied hours through the weekend, and Saturday will include a paid festival after dark and a sensory friendly hour from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m.

Many Minnesotans say that awkward holiday questions are making family gatherings uncomfortable as relatives ask personal queries during get-togethers — locals note that this mix of politeness and unease highlights a unique regional tradition.

Rochester Downtown Alliance will host its annual Here Comes Santa Claus event this Saturday at 2:30 p.m. with Mrs. Claus’ Workshop at Historic Chateau Theatre and a Santa rescue by the Rochester Fire Department at Old City Hall at 5 p.m.—tree lighting and Santa photo opportunities will follow until 7 p.m.

Today the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources offers free admission at 75 state parks and recreation areas—letting residents explore new paths after Thanksgiving dinner as it marks the last Free Park Day of 2025.

Many Minnesotans hold onto unused gift cards this holiday season, and state law prevents most of these cards from expiring—protecting buyers from hidden fees.

The law only allows expiration dates for cards from banks or for certain promotions.

Work of eARTh Teen Art Club

1-4 p.m. — Rochester Art Center — Free entry — A collective of teen artists focused on sustainability and community action through creativity.

Red Hat Enterprise Linux Systems Administration II Training

Mon, Dec 8 – Thu, Dec 11 — Huntington Learning Center Rochester — $1890 — Enhance your Linux skills with hands-on training in Rochester, MN.

Mozart After Hours

5:30-9 p.m. — Historic Chateau Theatre — Free entry — Experience a delightful evening of chamber music featuring masterpieces and a world premiere in a charming setting.

The Nutcracker by World Ballet Company

3:00 – 8:30 p.m. — Mayo Civic Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience a magical holiday adventure in a heartwarming ballet filled with enchanting moments and delightful characters.

Travis Anderson Trio - Christmas Concert

7-8:30 p.m. — Mayo Civic Center — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy classic holiday tunes with a modern jazz twist from the acclaimed Travis Anderson Trio.

Rocky Mountain High Experience: A John Denver Christmas

7:30-9 p.m. — Mayo Civic Center — Tickets available — Experience the timeless music of John Denver performed live this holiday season.

Wee Wednesday - My Wee Christmas Tree

9:30-10:30 a.m. — Sargent's on 2nd — $15 class fee — Decorate a “wee” Christmas tree while enjoying a festive reading and treats.

WFPB Holiday Potluck

6-8 p.m. — 1800 High Pointe Ln NW, Rochester, MN — Cost info not listed — Celebrate the holidays with delicious whole food plant-based dishes and community connections.

World Juniors Hockey Pre-Tournament Series

7-10 p.m. — Rochester Recreation Center — Cost info not provided — Witness young hockey talents battle it out in exhibition games featuring Denmark, Switzerland, and Sweden.