Nov 15, 2023

Thanksgiving is only a week away, and Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) anticipates another burst of travel activity in the days on either side of the holiday.

Larger-than-usual volumes of passenger traffic are expected starting Thursday and Friday, Nov. 16 and 17, as some travelers gear up for much ado about stuffing.

Wednesday, Nov. 22 is also anticipated to see increased passenger traffic. The Sunday after Thanksgiving, Nov. 26, is expected to be busy as well.

Passengers will find extra MSP Airport staff on the ticketing levels at Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 at key times, and near TSA security checkpoints, helping guide people to the appropriate areas.

We continue to advise passengers to arrive at MSP two hours ahead of domestic flights, and three hours ahead for international travel. Always remain in touch with your airline and check for any changes to your flight before coming to the airport.

  • For those picking up passengers, remember to use either roadway level in front of Terminal 1 for drop-offs or pick-ups. If one roadway level is congested, use the other level and coordinate the new location with your passenger by cell phone. Additional cell phone lot parking was also added recently on Post Road.

  • Once inside either terminal, look for kiosks operated by your airline to print out bag tags for checked bags. Airline staff can help direct you.

  • As you move toward the security checkpoint lines, the TSA has some tips for families traveling with children. Another TSA webpage provides additional guidance for an efficient security checkpoint experience.

As you look at the dining options at MSP, consider using MSP Order Now if you’re in a rush to get to the gate. For those traveling out of Terminal 2, visit this page to find more links to all your favorite restaurants and their order-ahead apps.

After you’ve cleared security, Airport Foundation MSP has a long list of musical and dance performances planned for your entertainment.

  • Sunday, Nov. 19, 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.: Ballet Minnesota will perform excerpts from The Nutcracker Ballet in the North Rotunda of Terminal 1

  • Wednesday, Nov. 22, 7 a.m. to 9 a.m.: Jack Barrett and Charlie Bruber (piano and bass jazz duo) will perform a relaxed sunrise set in Terminal 2 across from gate H11

  • Wednesday, Nov. 22, 2 p.m to 4 p.m.: David Billingsley & Friends will perform fun jazz, soul, and R&B music that all ages can enjoy in the Airport Mall Gallery of Terminal 1

  • Sunday, Nov. 26, 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.: The Twin Cities Songwriter Rounds will perform new music by local songwriters in the Airport Mall Gallery of Terminal 1

If you’re not traveling through MSP for Thanksgiving, we look forward to seeing you soon, perhaps for the December holidays!