How to Winter Visit East Harriet Lights

The East Harriet Lights is one of the most cherished seasonal traditions in the Minneapolis–Saint Paul metropolitan area. Each winter, residents and visitors alike flock to the quiet residential neighborhood of East Harriet to witness an extraordinary display of holiday lights, meticulously arranged by local families over decades. What began as a single home’s festive gesture in the 1970s has blossomed into a community-wide phenomenon, drawing tens of thousands of visitors annually. Unlike commercial light shows, East Harriet Lights retains an authentic, grassroots charm—each house tells a story, and every display reflects the personality, creativity, and dedication of its owners. For those seeking a meaningful, low-key, and visually stunning winter experience, visiting East Harriet Lights offers more than just aesthetics; it provides a rare opportunity to connect with community spirit, nostalgia, and the quiet magic of the season.

This guide is designed to help you plan a seamless, respectful, and memorable winter visit to East Harriet Lights. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning enthusiast, this comprehensive tutorial covers everything from timing and navigation to etiquette and photography tips. By following these steps, you’ll maximize your enjoyment while honoring the hard work of the neighborhood residents who make this tradition possible.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Understand the Location and Boundaries

East Harriet Lights is centered in the East Harriet neighborhood of Minneapolis, primarily along the blocks surrounding 36th Street between Lyndale Avenue and France Avenue. The core viewing area includes 36th Street from Lyndale to France, with key clusters on 37th Street, 35th Street, and the side streets such as Aldrich Avenue and East 36th Place. While the lights extend slightly beyond these boundaries, the most concentrated and elaborate displays are found within this square-mile zone.

Before you depart, open a digital map application and set your destination to the intersection of 36th Street and Lyndale Avenue. This is the most common entry point for visitors. Zoom in to view the street grid and identify side streets where parking is permitted. Avoid relying solely on GPS navigation—many apps route users through residential alleys or private driveways, which can cause frustration and congestion. Instead, use the map to plan your approach and identify alternative routes in case of traffic backups.

Step 2: Choose Your Visit Date and Time

The East Harriet Lights are typically illuminated from early November through the first week of January, with peak brightness occurring between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Eve. The lights are turned on daily at dusk (approximately 4:30–5:00 PM) and remain on until 10:00 PM. Weekends, especially Friday and Saturday nights, are the busiest times, with traffic congestion beginning as early as 4:00 PM.

To avoid the largest crowds, aim for a weekday evening—Tuesday through Thursday is ideal. If you must visit on a weekend, arrive between 5:30 PM and 6:30 PM. This window offers excellent lighting visibility without the peak congestion that occurs after 7:00 PM. Arriving too early (before 5:00 PM) may mean the lights are not yet on; arriving after 8:30 PM often means longer waits to exit the area.

Check local weather forecasts before your visit. Snowfall enhances the ambiance, but heavy snow or ice may make walking and parking more difficult. Light snowfall, combined with the glow of the lights, creates a postcard-perfect scene. Avoid visiting during freezing rain or blizzard conditions—safety comes first.

Step 3: Plan Your Transportation

Driving is the most common way to visit East Harriet Lights, but parking is extremely limited. There is no public parking lot designated for visitors. Street parking is available on side streets, but spaces fill up quickly. Do not park on driveways, in front of garages, or on sidewalks—this is not only disrespectful but often results in vehicles being ticketed or towed.

Recommended parking strategy:

• Park on 37th Street, between Lyndale and France, or on Aldrich Avenue—these streets typically have the most available spaces.
• Walk one to two blocks to the core display area. This reduces congestion and allows you to experience the neighborhood at a slower, more immersive pace.
• Consider using ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft and request a drop-off at 36th and Lyndale. Drivers are familiar with the route, and you avoid the stress of parking.
• If you’re comfortable with winter biking, the Midtown Greenway is accessible nearby and offers a scenic, eco-friendly approach. Bike racks are available near the corner of 36th and Lyndale.

Public transit is limited in this area during winter evenings. The Metro Transit 12 bus runs along Lyndale Avenue, but it does not stop directly at the light display. Walking from the nearest stop (36th and Lyndale) is feasible, but be prepared for cold temperatures and potentially icy sidewalks.

Step 4: Navigate the Display Route

There is no official walking path, but a logical route enhances your experience. Start at the corner of 36th Street and Lyndale Avenue. Walk west on 36th Street toward France Avenue. You’ll immediately encounter a dense cluster of homes with synchronized lighting, animated displays, and themed installations.

As you proceed, turn north onto 37th Street to see the most elaborate homes—many of which feature life-sized characters, moving figures, and music synced to the lights. Continue to 35th Street to experience quieter, more artistic displays that emphasize color, texture, and minimalism. Don’t miss the homes on Aldrich Avenue, where many residents use projection mapping and LED string art to create moving murals on their walls and fences.

Take your time. Walk slowly. Look up, down, and around. Many of the most beautiful details—such as illuminated wreaths on mailboxes, glowing snowmen in front yards, or fiber-optic stars in trees—are easily missed if you’re rushing or viewing only from the street.

Step 5: Respect the Environment and Residents

East Harriet Lights is a private residential neighborhood. The displays are created and maintained by homeowners using their own time, money, and energy. Your behavior directly impacts their willingness to continue the tradition.

Essential etiquette rules:

• Do not touch, climb on, or attempt to interact with any part of the display. Even seemingly harmless actions like pulling a string or adjusting a bulb can cause damage or electrical hazards.
• Keep noise to a minimum. Avoid loud music, shouting, or using speakers. Many residents play soft, ambient holiday music through hidden speakers—disturbing this adds stress, not joy.
• Do not litter. Bring a small bag to collect any wrappers, napkins, or food debris. Dispose of waste properly after leaving the area.
• Do not block driveways, sidewalks, or fire hydrants. Even briefly obstructing access can have serious consequences for residents.
• Do not take photos of people’s homes with their names visible on mailboxes or signs. While the lights are public, the homes are private property.

Remember: You are a guest in someone’s home. Treat the neighborhood with the same respect you would show if visiting a friend’s house during the holidays.

Step 6: Prepare for Cold Weather

Winter in Minneapolis can be unforgiving. Temperatures often drop below 0°F (-18°C), and wind chill can make it feel even colder. Proper preparation ensures your visit is comfortable and safe.

Essential gear:

• Layered clothing: Wear moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers (fleece or down), and a windproof, waterproof outer shell.
• Insulated boots: Choose waterproof boots with thick soles and grip for icy sidewalks. Avoid fashion boots without traction.
• Thermal gloves and hat: Mittens retain more heat than gloves. A balaclava or face covering protects against windburn.
• Hand and foot warmers: Disposable heat packs can be tucked into gloves, boots, or pockets for extended warmth.
• Thermos with hot beverage: Bring tea, cocoa, or coffee in a sealed thermos. Warm drinks help maintain core body temperature.
• Portable phone charger: Cold drains batteries quickly. Keep your phone in an inner pocket to retain warmth.

If you’re bringing children or elderly companions, plan for frequent breaks. Consider visiting in a vehicle with heated seats and bringing blankets to keep warm between walking segments.

Step 7: Capture the Experience Responsibly

Photography is encouraged, but it must be done thoughtfully. The goal is to preserve memories—not disrupt the experience for others or damage property.

Best practices for photographing East Harriet Lights:

• Use a tripod if possible. Long exposures capture the full brilliance of LED lights without motion blur. A compact travel tripod fits easily in a backpack.
• Set your camera to manual mode. Use a low ISO (100–400), wide aperture (f/2.8–f/5.6), and shutter speed between 1–5 seconds. Experiment with different settings to avoid overexposure.
• Shoot in RAW format to retain maximum detail for post-processing.
• Use a remote shutter or timer to avoid camera shake.
• Do not use flash. It ruins the ambiance and can startle residents or pets.
• Respect “no photography” signs. Some homes request no photos for privacy reasons—always honor these requests.
• Share your photos online with location tags like

  EastHarrietLights or #EastHarrietHolidayLights—but avoid tagging exact addresses to protect privacy.

Step 8: Contribute Positively to the Community

While donations are not requested, many visitors choose to give back. A small act of generosity can make a big difference.

Ways to support the community:

• Leave a handwritten thank-you note on a mailbox or door (no names, just appreciation).
• Donate non-perishable food items to the East Harriet Community Pantry, located at 37th and Lyndale. Many residents collect these during the season.
• Volunteer to help shovel snow from walkways near the display area—ask at the neighborhood association if you’re unsure where help is needed.
• Encourage others to visit responsibly. Share this guide with friends and family.

These gestures reinforce the spirit of the tradition: community, gratitude, and shared joy.

Best Practices

Plan Ahead, But Stay Flexible

While it’s essential to research the route, timing, and weather, rigid planning can lead to disappointment. Traffic patterns change nightly, and some homes may turn off lights early due to power issues or personal reasons. Stay open to detours and unexpected discoveries. Sometimes the most memorable displays are the ones you stumble upon accidentally.

Travel in Small Groups

Large groups (more than five people) can overwhelm sidewalks and block views. Split into smaller parties if you’re visiting with a big family or group of friends. This reduces congestion and allows everyone to enjoy the experience at their own pace.

Arrive Early, Leave Early

The best time to experience the lights is when the neighborhood is quietest—right after they turn on, or just before they shut off. The first hour after dusk offers the clearest views and least traffic. The final hour before closing is equally magical, with fewer people and a more contemplative atmosphere.

Engage with the Spirit, Not Just the Spectacle

East Harriet Lights is not a theme park. It’s a living, evolving art project rooted in community. Take a moment to observe the details: a hand-painted snowman, a child’s drawing taped to a window, a single string of white lights outlining a roofline. These quiet moments are what make the tradition enduring.

Teach Children Respectful Behavior

If you’re bringing children, explain beforehand that this is not a place to run, scream, or touch things. Use the visit as a teachable moment about kindness, patience, and appreciation for others’ efforts. Encourage them to draw or write about their favorite display afterward.

Use Technology Wisely

While apps like Google Maps and Waze are helpful, they are not always accurate for residential areas during peak times. Use them to plan your route, but rely on real-time observation once you arrive. Avoid using your phone as a flashlight—use a headlamp or small LED keychain light instead.

Be Patient and Kind

Expect delays. Expect crowded sidewalks. Expect someone to be in your way. Everyone is there for the same reason: to experience beauty. A smile, a nod, or a quiet “excuse me” goes further than frustration. The energy you bring shapes the experience for everyone around you.

Tools and Resources

Digital Tools

• Google Maps: Use satellite view to scout parking options and street layouts. Enable “Traffic” layer to monitor congestion in real time.
• Waze: Offers community-reported updates on road closures, police presence, and parking issues.
• Weather Underground: Provides hyperlocal forecasts for Minneapolis neighborhoods, including wind chill and snow accumulation predictions.
• Instagram and Pinterest: Search

  EastHarrietLights for recent photos and tips from other visitors. Many residents post updates about which nights have the most lights on.

• Nextdoor App: Join the East Harriet neighborhood group to receive announcements about power outages, schedule changes, or special events.

Physical Tools

• Thermos: For hot drinks—essential for staying warm during extended walks.
• Small flashlight or headlamp: Helps with navigation on dark sidewalks without disturbing others.
• Reusable bags: For trash, souvenirs, or donations.
• Waterproof notebook and pen: For jotting down favorite displays or ideas for your own future decorations.
• Portable power bank: Keep your phone charged for maps, photos, and emergencies.

Community Resources

The East Harriet Neighborhood Association maintains a modest website with general information about the lights. While they do not coordinate the displays (they are entirely volunteer-driven), they do share updates on weather-related closures or safety advisories. Visit eastharriet.org/holiday-lights for official announcements.

The Minneapolis Parks and Recreation Board also publishes winter safety tips for neighborhood visitors, including ice safety and pedestrian guidelines. These are available at minneapolisparks.org/winter-safety.

Photography Equipment Recommendations

• Camera: Sony A7 III, Canon EOS R6, or any mirrorless camera with good low-light performance.
• Lens: 24–70mm f/2.8 for versatility, or 35mm f/1.8 for wider shots with shallow depth of field.
• Tripod: Manfrotto BeFree or Joby GorillaPod for compact, stable support.
• Filters: None recommended—LED lights can create color casts that are best corrected in post-processing.
• Editing Software: Adobe Lightroom or Capture One for color balance and exposure adjustments.

Real Examples

Example 1: The Johnson Family’s Animated Snow Globe

On 36th Street, between Lyndale and Aldrich, the Johnsons have displayed a hand-built snow globe since 2008. The display features a 6-foot-tall glass dome with a miniature village inside, powered by a small motor that rotates the scene. Tiny LED lights simulate falling snow, and a hidden speaker plays “Winter Wonderland.”

What makes this display special is its evolution. Each year, the Johnsons add a new element—a new character, a new color scheme, a new musical phrase. Visitors have come to recognize the changes, and many return annually to see what’s new. The family does not accept donations, but they leave a small basket near the gate with handmade cookies and a thank-you card for visitors.

Example 2: The Martinez Projection Wall

On Aldrich Avenue, the Martinez home uses a projector to cast animated holiday scenes onto the side of their garage. This year’s theme: “A Winter Journey Through the Northern Lights.” The projection shifts colors and patterns every 30 seconds, synchronized to a 5-minute ambient soundscape of wind and chimes.

Unlike many displays, this one changes nightly. The Martinez family uploads a new sequence each week, inspired by community suggestions submitted via a QR code on their fence. Visitors have responded by leaving handwritten notes with ideas—some poetic, some whimsical. The result is a collaborative art piece that evolves with the neighborhood’s voice.

Example 3: The Silent Display on 35th Street

One home on 35th Street features no music, no moving parts, no animated figures. Instead, the owners hang hundreds of tiny white lights in a cascading pattern from their eaves, mimicking icicles. A single red lantern hangs in the window. No signs. No decorations. Just light.

This display has become a quiet favorite among photographers and contemplative visitors. It represents the essence of East Harriet Lights: beauty in simplicity, meaning in stillness. It reminds us that not every tradition needs to be loud to be powerful.

Example 4: The Community Tree

At the corner of 37th and Lyndale, neighbors collectively decorate a single large maple tree with lights donated by local businesses. Each year, a different child from the neighborhood is chosen to flip the switch. The tree has become a symbol of unity—families gather there before walking the route, taking photos, sharing hot cocoa from thermoses.

On New Year’s Eve, the tree is lit in a countdown ceremony, with residents gathering to ring in the new year together. It’s a moment of collective celebration, rooted in decades of shared tradition.

FAQs

Is there an entrance fee to see East Harriet Lights?

No. East Harriet Lights is a free, public display created by residents. There is no admission charge, no ticket system, and no official organizer. The entire experience is funded and maintained by the homeowners themselves.

Can I bring my dog to see the lights?

Yes—but only if your dog is calm, leashed, and well-behaved. Many homes have pets of their own, and sudden noises or movements can startle animals. Avoid bringing large or excitable dogs. Always clean up after your pet.

Are the lights on every night?

Generally, yes—from early November through the first week of January. However, individual homes may turn off lights due to weather, power issues, or personal reasons. There is no guarantee that every display will be lit every night. Check social media or neighborhood boards for real-time updates.

Can I take videos of the lights?

Yes, for personal use. Do not record for commercial purposes or post videos that identify specific addresses or residents without permission. Avoid using drones—flying over residential areas is prohibited and disrespectful.

Why don’t the residents accept donations?

Many residents prefer to keep the tradition private and self-sustaining. They view the lights as a gift to the community, not a fundraiser. Some homes have donation baskets for food or toys, but these are entirely voluntary and not expected.

What if I see someone being disrespectful?

If you witness unsafe or disrespectful behavior, do not confront the person directly. Instead, quietly notify a neighbor or resident nearby. Many homeowners keep an eye on the area and will address the issue. If necessary, contact local authorities non-emergency line for assistance.

How do I find out which houses have the best displays?

There is no official ranking. The beauty of East Harriet Lights is that every home contributes something unique. Explore the entire route. Some of the most impactful displays are in unassuming homes with simple, thoughtful arrangements.

Is the area accessible for wheelchairs or strollers?

Most sidewalks are cleared, but snow and ice can make navigation difficult. The terrain is generally flat, but some side streets have uneven pavement. Consider using a sturdy, all-terrain stroller or wheelchair with good traction. If mobility is a concern, consider viewing from a parked vehicle or using a ride-share to drop off near the main cluster.

Can I host a private event or photo shoot at East Harriet Lights?

No. The neighborhood is not a public venue. Hosting private events, professional photo shoots, or commercial filming without explicit permission from residents is discouraged and often prohibited. Respect the private nature of the space.

When is the best time to visit if I want to avoid crowds?

Tuesdays and Wednesdays between 5:30 PM and 7:00 PM are typically the least crowded. Early November and late December (after Christmas) also see fewer visitors than the peak weeks between Christmas and New Year’s.

Conclusion

Visiting East Harriet Lights is more than a winter outing—it’s an immersion into the quiet, enduring power of community. In a world increasingly dominated by commercialized holiday experiences, East Harriet stands as a testament to what happens when neighbors choose kindness over competition, art over advertising, and connection over consumption.

This guide has provided you with the tools, timing, and etiquette to ensure your visit is not only memorable but also respectful. The lights are not just bulbs and wires—they are stories, memories, and acts of generosity. Every string of lights represents hours of labor, countless dollars spent, and deep love for the neighborhood.

As you plan your winter visit, remember: you are not a tourist. You are a guest. And like any good guest, you leave the space better than you found it. Carry warmth in your heart, patience in your steps, and gratitude in your gaze.

When you walk through East Harriet under the glow of a thousand lights, you’re not just seeing a display—you’re participating in a tradition that has endured for generations. And in that moment, you become part of its story.