by Wyatt, age 9, asks how many holidays cluster around Christmas 2026, about Minneapolis lakes, and the Twin Cities
Dear Santa,
Hi Santa, from Minneapolis. My name is Wyatt and I am 9 years old. My dad works for the city, and every December he checks the calendar carefully to see exactly how many days off he gets around Christmas, especially when the holiday lands awkwardly close to a weekend.
My first question is: how many holidays will there be around Christmas in 2026?
My second question is geography: what two lakes is Minneapolis famous for being near?
My third question is from school: why is Minneapolis called the Twin Cities along with Saint Paul?
I left you a hotdish, a Minnesota comfort food, and a mug of hot chocolate.
Love, Wyatt, age 9, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
From the Desk of Father Christmas
Dear Wyatt, hotdish is proper Minnesota comfort food, warm and hearty. Now, let me help your dad check that calendar, and answer your other questions.
How many holidays will there be around Christmas in 2026?
Since Christmas Day falls on a Friday in 2026, many workers in the United States will get a convenient long weekend built right around it, with New Year’s Day the following Friday, the 1st of January 2027, offering a similar bonus long weekend just a week later. Exactly how many official days off your dad gets depends on his specific employer’s policy, since public holiday calendars vary between countries, states, and even individual companies, but landing on a Friday is generally considered a lucky placement for anyone hoping for an extra long break.
What two lakes is Minneapolis famous for?
Minneapolis is nicknamed the City of Lakes, home to dozens of lakes within the city itself, with Lake Calhoun, now called Bde Maka Ska, and Lake Harriet being two of the most beloved for walking, swimming, and skating in winter.
Why is Minneapolis called part of the Twin Cities?
Minneapolis grew up right alongside Saint Paul, separated only by the Mississippi River, and the two cities developed so closely intertwined, sharing infrastructure and culture, that together they earned the nickname the Twin Cities.
Tell your dad the Friday placement works in his favour, and I shall see you very soon.
Ho ho ho, Santa
