by Minnesota lights up the sky each New Year’s Eve with fireworks, festivities, and community gatherings. Whether you’re looking for midnight fireworks in the heart of a major city or early evening displays for families, the state offers celebrations to suit every preference. From the urban excitement of Minneapolis and St. Paul to scenic waterfront views in Duluth, Minnesota provides plenty of options to welcome 2026 in style. This guide lists the main fireworks events across the state along with their locations and expected timings.
Minnesota New Year’s Eve Fireworks at a Glance
Midnight Fireworks Cities
- Minneapolis – 12:00 AM
- St. Paul – 12:00 AM
- Duluth – 12:00 AM
Early or Late Evening Fireworks Cities
- Rochester – 9:00 PM to 10:30 PM
- St. Cloud – 9:00 PM to 10:00 PM
- Mankato – 8:30 PM to 10:00 PM
- Moorhead (regional events) – Evening to Midnight
Minneapolis New Year’s Eve Fireworks Overview
Minneapolis is one of the most popular destinations in Minnesota for ringing in the New Year. The city typically organizes downtown celebrations that culminate in a midnight fireworks display.
Key Details
- Fireworks Time: 12:00 AM
- General Area: Downtown Minneapolis, Mississippi River surroundings
- Event Style: Large city celebration
Why Choose Minneapolis
- Iconic urban skyline views
- Lively crowd atmosphere
- Traditional midnight countdown experience
This event is best suited for those who want a classic New Year’s Eve celebration in a major city setting.
St. Paul New Year’s Eve Fireworks Overview
St. Paul often complements Minneapolis with its own downtown or riverfront New Year’s Eve celebrations.
Key Details
- Fireworks Time: 12:00 AM
- General Area: Downtown St. Paul or Mississippi Riverfront
- Event Style: Capital city celebration
What Makes St. Paul Unique
- Scenic riverfront viewing areas
- Community-focused celebrations
- Less intense crowds compared to Minneapolis in some areas
St. Paul is a strong option for those seeking midnight fireworks with a slightly calmer environment.
Duluth New Year’s Eve Fireworks Overview
Duluth offers one of the most visually striking New Year’s Eve fireworks displays in Minnesota due to its Lake Superior setting.
Key Details
- Fireworks Time: 12:00 AM
- General Area: Lake Superior waterfront, Canal Park area
- Event Style: Scenic waterfront celebration
Highlights
- Fireworks reflecting over Lake Superior
- Wintery lakeside atmosphere
- Popular with both locals and visitors
Duluth is ideal for those looking for a memorable New Year’s Eve experience with dramatic natural scenery.
Rochester New Year’s Eve Fireworks Overview
Rochester often focuses on community celebrations and earlier fireworks timings.
Key Details
- Fireworks Time: Between 9:00 PM and 10:30 PM
- General Area: Downtown Rochester or community event spaces
- Event Style: Family-friendly
Best For
- Families with children
- Visitors who prefer not to stay out until midnight
- Smaller crowds and relaxed pacing
Rochester’s early fireworks make it one of the most practical choices for family celebrations.
St. Cloud New Year’s Eve Fireworks Overview
St. Cloud typically includes fireworks as part of its local New Year’s Eve activities.
Key Details
- Fireworks Time: Around 9:00 PM to 10:00 PM
- General Area: Downtown or designated event zones
- Event Style: Community celebration
Event Atmosphere
- Friendly local crowds
- Shorter fireworks display
- Comfortable early evening timing
Mankato New Year’s Eve Fireworks Overview
Mankato’s New Year’s Eve celebrations often emphasize accessibility and family participation.
Key Details
- Fireworks Time: Between 8:30 PM and 10:00 PM
- General Area: City parks or downtown event areas
- Event Style: Family-oriented
Why Attend
- Early fireworks schedule
- Community atmosphere
- Easier parking and movement compared to larger cities
Moorhead and Regional Fireworks Options
Moorhead, often coordinating with nearby Fargo events, may feature New Year’s Eve fireworks depending on regional planning.
Key Details
- Fireworks Time: Evening hours to Midnight
- Event Style: Regional celebration
- Coverage: Serves both Minnesota and North Dakota attendees
These events vary annually and may be tied to larger regional festivities.
Minnesota Cities Without Regular Fireworks Displays
Some cities in Minnesota focus more on indoor events or private celebrations rather than city-sponsored fireworks.
Common Examples
- Bemidji
- Winona
- Eden Prairie
- Woodbury
Residents in these cities often travel to nearby fireworks locations for New Year’s Eve.
Choosing the Right Fireworks Event in Minnesota
Best Cities for Midnight Fireworks
- Minneapolis
- St. Paul
- Duluth
Best Cities for Early Evening Fireworks
- Rochester
- St. Cloud
- Mankato
Best for Scenic Viewing
- Duluth (Lake Superior)
- Minneapolis riverfront areas
Winter Travel and Safety Tips
Cold Weather Preparation
- Wear insulated jackets, gloves, hats, and winter boots
- Bring hand warmers if standing outdoors for long periods
Crowd and Travel Planning
- Arrive early for downtown events
- Expect limited parking near riverfront areas
- Use public transportation where available
Family Planning
- Early fireworks are better for young children
- Choose locations with open viewing areas and easy exits
Final Summary
Minnesota’s New Year’s Eve fireworks for 2025 offer a wide variety of celebration options. From midnight fireworks in Minneapolis, St. Paul, and Duluth to early evening displays in Rochester, St. Cloud, and Mankato, there are events suited for families, groups, and individuals. Planning ahead for weather, travel, and timing will help ensure a safe and enjoyable New Year’s Eve experience across the state.
