Holiday
Holiday Lights & Markets in Des Moines
Make the holidays magical in Des Moines — light displays, holiday markets, ice skating, Santa visits, and festive dining experiences.
Holiday Light Displays
- Jolly Holiday Lights at Adventureland (drive-through, 2+ million lights)
- Holiday Promenade in East Village (mid-November)
- Trail of Lights at Ewing Park
- Downtown holiday decorations and Cowles Commons tree
- Living History Farms Holiday celebrations
Holiday Markets & Shopping
- Christkindlmarket Des Moines (German-style Christmas market)
- Holiday Boutique at Community Choice Convention Center
- Valley Junction holiday shopping nights
- Small Business Saturday in the East Village
- Waukee Winter Market
Ice Skating & Winter Activities
- Brenton Skating Plaza downtown (November-March)
- Buccaneer Arena public skate sessions
- Holiday cookie decorating classes
- Des Moines Community Playhouse holiday show
- Iowa Wild hockey games
Insider Tips
- Jolly Holiday Lights is best on weekday nights (no wait)
- Brenton Skating Plaza is magical during snowfall
- Book holiday dining reservations at least 2 weeks ahead
- East Village Holiday Promenade includes free hot cocoa