Skip Navigation Documents in Portable Document Format (PDF) require Adobe Acrobat Reader 5.0 or higher to view,download Adobe® Acrobat Reader.
FDIC-Insured - Backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Government
Bank Plus
Enroll now. Forgot Password?

9 Holiday Events and Activities to Do in Iowa This December

December is finally here, and with it comes a plethora of holiday events and activities to enjoy across Iowa. From festive light displays and holiday markets to Santa meet-and-greets and winter wonderlands, there's something for everyone to get into the holiday spirit. So, let’s jump in and highlight some of the top holiday events and activities to do in Iowa this December.

1. Holiday Hullabaloo in Clive, IA

This indoor, family-friendly holiday experience in Clive, Iowa, includes Mrs. Claus's Kitchen, Santa's Workshop, and a holiday marketplace. It's a perfect outing for the whole family.

2. Ballet Des Moines Presents "The Nutcracker" in Des Moines, IA

Enjoy the timeless holiday classic, "The Nutcracker," performed by Ballet Des Moines. This enchanting performance is a must-see for all ages.

3. Santa’s House in Estherville, IA

Bring your kids to meet Santa! Santa’s House in our very own Estherville is open every Thursday from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. and Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. in December leading up to Christmas. Learn more about it.

  • When: Every Thursday and Saturday until Christmas
  • Details: Santa House

4. Christmas Acres Light Display in Le Mars, IA

Flock with friends and family to Christmas Acres, a farm in Le Mars, Iowa, known for having one of the area’s best light displays. This display features over 200,000 lights, inflatables, sculptures, music and more. Grab a hot chocolate or coffee and stroll through the lights!

5. Jingle Mingle Pub Crawl in Mason City, IA

If you’re looking to enjoy an adult beverage out and about this holiday season, check out the Jingle Mingle Pub Crawl in Mason City! Throw on some festive attire, grab your friends, and enjoy a variety of activities. You can enter drawings for gifts and prizes from downtown businesses, enjoy drink specials and more. You must be 21 or older to participate.

6. Hometown Christmas Celebration in Pocahontas, IA

Needing to do some last-minute holiday shopping? Head to the Hometown Christmas celebration in Pocahontas, Iowa. Enjoy holiday shopping with special deals at local stores, as well as a light parade, luminaries, special events and a visit from Santa, too.

7. A Bel Canto Christmas in Cedar Falls, IA

Enjoy the songs of the season at the Gallagher Bluedorn stage performed by Bel Canto Cedar Valley, the Jesse Cosby Community Collective gospel choir, and Waverly-Shell Rock High School. Celebrate Christmas with the region’s best vocal ensembles as they join together for this festive event!

8. Dinner Detective Murder Mystery Show in Cedar Rapids, IA

Put all those thriller and mystery novels you’ve been reading to good use and attend a Dinner Detective Murder Mystery Show in Cedar Rapids. This interactive true crime mystery show is set in the present day and based on real cold cases. Feast on a delicious dinner while investigating the crime—prizes are awarded to the Top Sleuth at the end of the night!

9. Twas the Night Before the Circus in Ames, Ia

Attend a holiday-themed circus show in Ames, IA. This show features everything from aerial and cyr wheel to hula hooping and juggling! Join them for a whirlwind of fun where carols go awry, giant candy falls from the sky, and one of the performers catches a case of the “Merry Mischief Sneezes,” and the show falls into hilarious chaos! Fun for the whole family.

Fund Your Festivities with Bank Plus

As you're out and about enjoying these holiday events and activities, don't forget to use your Bank Plus credit card to earn rewards and cash back on your purchases. With our credit cards, you can earn points towards travel, merchandise, or even cash back, plus enjoy exclusive benefits like purchase protection and travel insurance.

Stop in! Our friendly staff is here to help with everything from depositing holiday checks to opening a new savings account. Click here to find a location near you.