The holiday season always sneaks up on me. One minute summer is over, then the leaves start to fall, then — BAM — it’s Thanksgiving. That leaves me just one month to knock out an entire season’s worth of holiday events and activities before the start of the new year.

Now, I’m not super over-the-top when it comes to the holiday season, but I always like to get out and do something festive during December. I’m even feeling ambitious and considering cutting down my own tree this year. Maybe.

I’ve rounded up a few of my top picks for holiday activities in the Twin Cities this month. Maybe I’ll see you there!

Holidazzle Village
The old Holidazzle Parade has been replaced with the Holidazzle Village and Minneapolis Holiday Market, which opened this past weekend. Located in downtown Minneapolis, the village includes a carousel, reindeer, live music and more. I will add that I’ve heard  lukewarm reviews from the only two people I know who visited the village on opening weekend. They both complained about having to pay to get into the market, where everything is for purchase. But I still might give it a try — I’m a sucker for overpriced hot cider.

The Depot
If you’ve never been ice-skating at The Depot in Minneapolis before, you’re really missing out. It’s a beautiful setting, and there’s something about ice skating in the comfort (read: warmth) of the indoors that is really appealing. The Depot opened last weekend — get going!

Wells Fargo Winter Skate
If you’re more of a “St. Paul” type ‘o person, or feel that indoor ice skating is not quite Minnesotan enough, well, Rice Park is the destination for you. Starting tomorrow, an ice rink is open every day to the public for free (through February). With lighted trees surrounding the rink, it’s a pretty magical experience.

For the Kids
St. Paul’s North Pole Express experience sounds like a kid’s dream come true. Opening this weekend, kids (and their parents) can take the “North Pole Express” from Union Depot to pick up Santa at his village. The experience includes a chance for the kids to chat with Santa and tell him what present they want. Awwwwww!

Holidays: on Stage
If you’re in the mood for quality, holiday-themed performances, you’re in luck. Options this month include “A Christmas Carol” at the Guthrie, “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” at the Children’s Theater, “The Nutcracker” at the Orpheum, the cheeky “Twerking ‘Round the Christmas Tree” from Brave New Workshop and many, many more.

What am I missing? What’s on your must-do list this month?