As you are putting the final touches on baking and getting those last minute gifts (or maybe just starting your Christmas shopping), here are a few great holiday-themed events happening in Owatonna. Go the HOLIDAY GUIDE on our website for more fun Christmas events and stories.

HAVANA LIGHTS

This annual holiday tradition in Owatonna is benefiting the non-profit Helping Paws of Southern MN which helps rescue pets. The drive-thru light display is at 2048 Havana Road and is open dusk through 10 pm until New Year's. It is free to cruise through, but monetary donations can be made or they also accept dog and cat food or pet toys. Find out more on their website.

CHRISTMAS EVE AT RICE LAKE CHURCH

Find some nostalgia by attending a Christmas Eve service at 7 pm at the historic Rice Lake Church on Friday, December 24. The church is located eight miles east of Owatonna on Rose Street.

All are welcome to attend and there will be treats afterward. Doors open at 6:15 pm. Did you know Rice Lake Church hosts weddings? Find out more on their Facebook page.

OWATONNA ARTS CENTER

The Owatonna Arts Center is holding its exhibition "It's the Holiday Season" through December 29. The center is featuring Santa, Nutcrackers and Elf on the Shelf.

EVENTS TO GET 2022 STARTED

Owatonna Young life is hosting its second annual 5K / 1-mile run/walk/roll on January 2. It starts at the Kaplan's Woods parking lot and will go along the paved path. Find out more and get signed up here.

BIG BAND DANCE AT HISTORY CENTER

The Steele County Historical Society is hosting the Austin Big Band for a dance on Friday, January 7 at 7pm. Details are found on their Facebook page.

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BRRRR: The 15 Coldest Cities in America

You live here. You know how cold it gets, and by now you're probably used to it, but you should probably brace yourself because the National Weather Service issued a La Niña advisory last month and said, "La Niña winters in the southern tier of the US tend to be warmer and drier, while the northern tier and Canada tend to be even colder.

The list below is from Niche. They put together their list of the coldest cities in the county by looking at which ones had "the coldest average low temperatures during the winter months." Keep scrolling to see the 15 coldest cities in the United States.

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The 10 Coziest Restaurants in Rochester

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