– The annual Christmas in Wadena returns for its 17th season with new features, new music and the same commitment to spreading holiday cheer. The free event continues the tradition of supporting Project Share, which is a local food drive, with guests invited to bring non-perishable food items or monetary donations to help local families during the holiday season. Last year, visitors to Christmas in Wadena helped to contribute over 300 pounds of food and $1,800 to the Wadena food shelf.
Creator GP Anderson, said three new songs were added to the annual synchronized holiday light display this year — including music from George Strait, Pentatonix and Josh Groban. Anderson also created his very own theme song this year, titled, “Christmas in Wadena” giving the display its own unique anthem.
“Another highlight for 2025 is the newly animated 25-foot candy cane pole on the north side of the display, along with new features and additional videos,” said Anderson.
Christmas in Wadena runs daily from Thanksgiving weekend through New Year’s Day. Visitors can tune in their radios to 88.1 FM to enjoy the full musical experience. The display runs Monday through Thursday from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. and Friday through Sunday from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.
With expanded music, a custom theme song, new animation, videos, and its ongoing charitable focus, Anderson said Christmas in Wadena remains one of the community’s most beloved seasonal traditions.
Nicole Stracek / Wadena Pioneer Journal
Parade of Lights and Tree Lighting Ceremony at BN Park
Hosted by the Wadena Area Chamber of Commerce, the third annual Parade of Lights is set to take place on Friday, Dec. 5 beginning at 6 p.m. Community members, businesses and local organizations will light up the streets with festive floats helping to usher in the holiday season.
The parade route will begin behind M State, then head east on Franklin Ave., north on 2nd St. SW, and finish at Burlington Northern Park. Tina Bartels, executive director of Wadena’s chamber of commerce, said Santa Claus alongside Mrs. Claus will be joining the parade again this year.
“So far we have 25 floats signed up for the parade, with area fire departments also joining again this year,” said Bartels.
Anyone interested in signing up to take part in the Parade of Lights can sign up online at
, or call the chamber at 218-632-7704.
After the parade, make plans to watch the tree lighting ceremony in Burlington Northern Park, and visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus inside the Depot and enjoy free hot chocolate, treats and cookies.
Polar Xpress Holiday Festival
Hosted by the Staples Historical Society and Central Lakes College, the Polar Xpress is making a stop at Central Lakes College in Staples with a one-of-a-kind holiday celebration for the entire family. The free event is set for December 13-14 from noon to 4 p.m. at the Staple Campus, 1830 Airport Road. The fun features G-scale model train displays, photos with Santa, miniature train rides, cookie decorating and ornament crafts, holiday vendors and local railroad history and artifacts.
Menahga Christmas Tree Lighting & Santa Day
Join the fun during the sixth annual Christmas Tree Lighting and Santa Day from 4:30-6 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 6 in Menagha at St. Urho Park, which is located along Helsinki Boulevard southeast. The fun includes caroling, cookies and hot chocolate before the tree lighting ceremony. Plus, Santa will be on site to visit with children.
Nicole Stracek is an award-winning journalist known for her insightful and impactful storytelling across the region. As the community editor for the Wadena Pioneer Journal, she covers everything from local government to breaking news to human-interest features that highlight the heartbeat of Wadena. Nicole can be reached at 218-631-2561 or [email protected].
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