See all Des Moines Christmas happenings this year!
Des Moines launches Christmas 2025 around East Village and the Capitol grounds with sparkling installations and community events. Popular attractions feature Christmas tours, seasonal festivals and winter celebrations full of markets, concerts and family activities.
Find the best Des Moines Christmas happenings this year!
Top Christmas Events In and Around Des Moines
- Holiday Promenade
- SnowGlobe at Exile Brewing Company
- Des Moines Holiday Boutique
- Dome for the Holidays
- Holiday Promenade - Tree Lighting Ceremony 2025
- Festival of Trees & Lights
- Christkindlmarket Des Moines
- A Magical Cirque Christmas
- Holiday Hullabaloo
- The Peppermint Trail
See even MORE Christmas events below!
Des Moines Christmas Events
Des Moines Christmas Markets and Shopping
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The 23rd Annual Holiday Promenade transforms Des Moines' Historic East Village into a winter wonderland every Friday from late November to mid-December. This free, family-friendly celebration features a magical tree lighting ceremony, visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus, live music from marching bands, and unique artist-decorated storefronts. Explore the festive atmosphere with scavenger hunts, craft activities, and special story times, culminating in a dazzling holiday drone show.
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The Des Moines Holiday Boutique is a premier holiday shopping event featuring over 200 vendors offering unique gifts, artisan crafts, and festive decor. Discover new holiday apparel, toys, and gourmet treats, with special 'show deals' and hourly 'Boutique Bucks' drawings. Enjoy themed evenings like 'Girls Night Out' and interactive features for the whole family.
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Step into a winter wonderland at the 42nd Annual Festival of Trees & Lights, a beloved Central Iowa tradition. Marvel at over 90 dazzling trees, enjoy festive crafts, a scavenger hunt, and meet Santa. This event supports Blank Children's Hospital, offering a magical start to the holiday season for the whole family.
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Immerse yourself in the magic of a traditional European Christmas market right in Des Moines. Discover unique, hand-crafted gifts from artisans, savor authentic German foods and warm mulled wine, and enjoy festive live entertainment. It's a perfect destination for families to experience holiday cheer and cultural traditions.
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Experience the magic of the holidays at the Holiday Hullabaloo, an immersive family-friendly event. They offer a delightful array of attractions including Santa's Workshop for crafts, Mrs. Claus's Kitchen for cookie decorating, and an indoor sock skating rink. Meet Santa's friends and enjoy live entertainment for a truly enchanting holiday celebration.
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Experience the festive magic of The Peppermint Trail, a vibrant holiday event transforming The Avenues of Ingersoll & Grand and the Roosevelt Cultural District. Discover unique peppermint-themed window displays, enjoy live ice carving, and indulge in special holiday treats from local businesses. Meet Santa, browse artisan crafts, and ride the free Bee-Merry-Line trolley for a truly enchanting holiday celebration.
Des Moines Christmas Light Displays
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Immerse yourself in the warmth and glow of the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden's 'Dome for the Holidays.' This dazzling tradition transforms the tropical conservatory and Gardeners Show House into an enchanting display of thousands of twinkling lights. Families can enjoy interactive exhibits, a festive gnome hunt, and seasonal concessions. Special experiences include private Igloo rentals and elegant Friday night dinners at Flora.
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Kick off the holiday season at the annual Tree Lighting Ceremony in Des Moines' Historic East Village. Gather at Brenton Skating Plaza for an evening of festive cheer, including live music and a special performance of 'Dr. Seuss’ The Grinch Stole Christmas – The Musical'. Shops and restaurants stay open late, offering a perfect opportunity to start holiday shopping. Enjoy free trolley rides and complimentary hot cocoa.
Des Moines Christmas Movies, Theater and Entertainment
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Embrace the holiday spirit with A Magical Cirque Christmas, a captivating variety show filled with nostalgia, charm, and awe-inspiring performances. World-class entertainers will dazzle audiences with incredible talents set to favorite holiday tunes, creating an unforgettable celebration of the season for the entire family.
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Ballet Des Moines presents its beloved annual production of The Nutcracker, set to Tchaikovsky's iconic score. This festive ballet follows Clara's magical journey with her Nutcracker, brought to life by 24 professional dancers. Audiences of all ages will be captivated by the enchanting story and breathtaking performances.
Des Moines Christmas Food, Drink and Parties
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Transform your holiday season at Exile Brewing Company's SnowGlobe event. They've created a magical Winter Wonderland for guests to enjoy brunch, lunch, or dinner. Special events include festive holiday portraits, themed brunches with princesses and Santa, and unique ticketed celebrations. Reservations are highly recommended as these popular events fill up quickly.
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