5 Holiday Events You Don’t Want to Miss in Des Moines This December

Kick off the season with these must-see holiday happenings across Des Moines and the surrounding metro — perfect for celebrating, connecting, and soaking in the local spirit.

Question: What are the best holiday events happening in and around Des Moines this year?

Answer: From twinkling lights to festive markets, Des Moines shines all season long. Whether you’re a lifelong local or new to the area, these events capture what makes central Iowa such a vibrant place to call home.

Festival of Trees & Lights (Iowa Events Center)

A Des Moines tradition for nearly 40 years, the Festival of Trees & Lights fills the Iowa Events Center with decorated trees, live entertainment, holiday shopping, and a sense of community — all in support of Blank Children’s Hospital. You’ll find everything from gingerbread villages to crafts for kids.

Tickets are on sale now at the following link:  Festival of Trees and Lights Tickets

🗓 Dates: November 28 – 30, 2025

📍 Location: Iowa Events Center – 730 3rd St, Des Moines

💡 Why go: It’s the perfect mix of local giving and holiday cheer — ideal for the entire family.

Holiday Promenade (Historic East Village)

This is one of my favorites for a night out with friends.  Every Friday from late November through mid-December, downtown’s East Village transforms into a winter wonderland. Local shops stay open late, carolers stroll the streets, and restaurants serve up seasonal specials under glowing lights.

Check out the calendar of events:  East Village Des Moines Holiday Promenade

🗓 Dates: November 21 – December 19, 2025

📍 Location: Historic East Village, Des Moines

💡 Pro tip: Arrive early to enjoy dinner before the festivities begin — and don’t forget to take photos by the tree at Locust & East 5th.

Christkindlmarket Des Moines (Principal Park)

Experience a taste of Europe at Christkindlmarket, Iowa’s largest open-air holiday market. Wooden vendor stalls, mulled wine, hand-crafted ornaments, and live music make it a can’t-miss destination.

Take a look at additional information and different times:  Christkindlmarket
🗓 Dates: December 4 – 7 & 11 – 14, 2025

📍 Location: Principal Park, Downtown Des Moines

💡 Why go: It’s one of the most photogenic holiday settings in the Midwest — perfect for those who love festive food and unique gifts.

Dome for the Holidays (Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden)

Step into the warmth of the Botanical Garden’s tropical dome — reimagined with thousands of sparkling lights, model trains, and cozy seating under the stars. It’s one of Des Moines’ most magical indoor escapes.

For tickets click here:  Dome for the Holidays

🗓 Dates: November 15 – January 4 from 5pm - 9pm

📍 Location: 909 Robert D. Ray Dr, Des Moines

💡 Insider tip: Book an “Igloo Experience” for an unforgettable night surrounded by light displays and greenery.

Jolly Holiday Lights

Experience one of central Iowa’s most beloved holiday traditions — Jolly Holiday Lights, a drive-through spectacle that fills the Iowa State Fairgrounds with millions of twinkling lights. From glowing tunnels to animated displays and themed sections, it’s a magical experience that supports Make-A-Wish Iowa, helping grant wishes for local children.

Get tickets here:  Jolly Holiday Lights Tickets

🗓 Dates: November 29 – January 4, 2025

📍 Location: Iowa State Fairgrounds, Des Moines

💡 Why go: It’s perfect for a cozy night out — pack a thermos of hot cocoa, turn up your favorite holiday playlist, and enjoy the lights from the warmth of your car. It’s also a great way to give back while celebrating the season close to home.

Bonus Ideas

• Lace up your skates at Brenton Skating Plaza, open daily downtown through March.  Opening night with a tree ceremony and a visit from Santa and free skate passes for young kids is November 21st, 2025.
  
  
• Take a short drive north to Ames for Winter Wonderscape Lights at Reiman Gardens — a spectacular outdoor display worth the trip.  If you get to Ames, do yourself a favor and eat at Hickory Park. You will not be disappointed.
  
  

Final Takeaway

Des Moines comes alive each December with light shows, markets, and community events that remind us what makes this city feel like home. Whether you’re sipping cocoa in the East Village or admiring trees for a cause, it’s all part of the charm of living here.

Stay Connected with Des Moines Living

If you love learning about local events and hidden gems around the metro, follow The Rob and Kelly Team for more community insights and home-buying resources.  We pride ourselves on elevating your home buying and community engagement experiences!

And when you’re ready to explore what your home is worth — or what’s available in your favorite neighborhood — we’d love to help you every step of the way.


Kelly Schall, Broker Associate, GRI, CNE, Realtor®
📞 515-250-2133
Rob Langloss, Realtor®
📞 515-991-0734
📧 robandkelly@dsmrealtors.com
🌐 www.dsmrealtors.com
140 S 68th St Ste 1105, West Des Moines, IA 50266
Licensed in the State of Iowa