A Classic Mankato Holiday Tradition Near Hotel Alexander: Kiwanis Holiday Lights

Guest User • December 16, 2025

The holiday season in Mankato is filled with charm, tradition, and glowing winter nights, and nothing captures that spirit quite like the Kiwanis Holiday Lights at Sibley Park. Running from November 28 to December 31, 2025, this beloved annual event transforms Sibley Park into a festive display of twinkling lights, animated scenes, and holiday music that locals and visitors eagerly anticipate every year. Presented by the Mankato Area Foundation and CHS, the Kiwanis Holiday Lights are free and open to the public and completely volunteer-produced, making them a meaningful way to celebrate the season while supporting the community. Guests are encouraged to bring cash or non-perishable food donations, which will help support local children’s programs throughout the region. Visitors can experience the lights by walking through the displays, enjoying a cozy drive-through experience, or arriving with a pre-approved bus group. Warm concessions, including cocoa, cider, and mini donuts, are available inside the park, making it easy to linger and enjoy the festive atmosphere. For hours, visiting tips, and display details, guests can learn more on the official Kiwanis Holiday Lights website: https://www.kiwanisholidaylights.com/sponsors

After an evening at the lights, return to the comfort of Hotel Alexander, located in the heart of Downtown Mankato. Our historic boutique hotel offers a relaxing retreat just minutes from Sibley Park, local dining, and other seasonal events, perfect for guests visiting family or coming into town for the holidays. Coming into town this winter or visiting Mankato for the holidays? Pair a festive night at the Kiwanis Holiday Lights with a cozy downtown stay.

A collage of professional event photos showing women working, networking, and presenting at a conference or workshop.

Celebrating the women shaping every stay at Hotel Alexander.

By Abby Santos • March 9, 2026
At Hotel Alexander and Arch + Cable, our story has always been rooted in people, our guests, our community, and the team members who bring our spaces to life every day. This March, in honor of Women’s History Month, we are proud to shine a light on something that makes our hotels especially meaningful to us: we are women-owned and largely women-operated. From leadership and management to operations, hospitality, and guest experience, women play a vital role in shaping the culture, creativity, and care that define our properties. Throughout the month, we will be highlighting the incredible women who help make our hotels what they are today. Each story reflects a different journey, perspective, and contribution, but they all share a common thread: a commitment to excellence, collaboration, and community.
The band Styx performs on a concert stage with blue lighting; musicians play guitars and keyboards under spotlights.

A Night of Timeless Rock: STYX & Fans Take Over Arch + Cable and Hotel Alexander

By Guest User • November 19, 2025
Downtown Mankato lit up last week as legendary rock band STYX rolled into town. Both Arch + Cable and Hotel Alexander were buzzing with the energy of excited fans. From the moment guests checked in, it was clear this wasn’t just another concert night. It was nostalgia, first-time magic, and pure musical joy all wrapped into one unforgettable stay.
Hockey players in white and purple jerseys hoist a silver championship trophy in a crowded indoor arena.

Game Night in Mankato: MSU Mavericks vs. RPI

By Abby Santos • October 23, 2025
Hockey season is in full swing, and there’s nothing like game night in Mankato. The Minnesota State University Mavericks are set to take on Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) at the Mayo Clinic Health System Event Center , and the excitement is already in the air. Whether you’re coming to cheer on a favorite player, meet up with friends, or just take in some great college hockey, Hotel Alexander is ready to welcome you for the weekend.
Syrup being poured onto french toast topped with banana slices and blueberries on a rustic wooden table.

A Day in Mankato with Hotel Alexander

By Abby Santos • September 17, 2025
At Hotel Alexander, we love being right in the heart of Mankato, a city filled with flavor, charm, and things to discover. If you’re looking for the perfect way to spend a day here, we’ve crafted a local food journey for you, complete with activities to enjoy between meals.