Christmas in Iowa is a magical time, with towns across the state transforming into winter wonderlands. From twinkling lights to festive events, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. While there’s no single “best” Christmas town, here are some charming communities known for their holiday spirit:
- Pella (Marion County): With its Dutch heritage, Pella transforms into a winter wonderland during “Christmas in Pella.” Expect festive decorations, a lighted parade, and a visit from Sinterklaas! Don’t miss indulging in some delicious Dutch treats while you’re there.
- Atlantic (Cass County): Named Travel Iowa’s top Christmas destination, downtown Christmas in Atlantic dazzles with nearly 200,000 lights across six festive blocks. Enjoy the Holiday Open House, the Grand Lighting Ceremony, and the Lighted Parade and Fireworks. Visit Santa’s Cabin, shop local, and celebrate the spirit of the season in true Hallmark fashion.
Atlantic, Iowa - Amana Colonies (Iowa County): Experience a charming Christmas atmosphere in the Amana Colonies. Join in at the Tannenbaum Forest of Christmas Trees festival or the Prelude to Christmas weekend festival. Explore holiday markets, festive events such as the Amana Pickle Hunt, and beautifully decorated shops, all infused with German tradition. Don’t forget to sample some of their famous Christmas baked goods during the Cookie Walk!
- Anamosa (Jones County): Anamosa lights up the season with a Holiday Parade of Lights hosted by the Anamosa Chamber of Commerce featuring illuminated floats and festive decorations throughout town. Make sure to join in on the Reindeer Run 5K & Youth Mile Run earlier in the day! Bundle up and sip on hot cider as you watch the dazzling parade.
- Clear Lake (Cerro Gordo County): Clear Lake’s “Christmas by the Lake” boasts a lighted parade, dazzling fireworks, and various festive activities. From 5k races to story times, Christmas concerts and ornament making, there is something for everyone during this weekend long event!
- Decorah (Winneshiek County): Decorah’s annual “December in Decorah” features a beautifully decorated downtown, Holiday Lights, Norwegian Christmas Celebration, Christmas at Luther (college), local markets and holiday open houses, creating a truly magical atmosphere.
- Wyoming (Jones County): Known as “Christmas City,” the small town of Wyoming, with a population of only about 500 residents, transforms into a magical holiday destination each year. With a picturesque canopy of approximately 2,500 Christmas lights over downtown, and horse driven wagon rides, Wyoming is full of Christmas cheer. The town also hosts an annual Christmas City Celebration on the first weekend in December, featuring various festive event for everyone.
- Indianola (Warren County): Celebrate the season at Home for the Holidays in downtown Indianola! Enjoy festive shopping, family activities, character meet-and-greets, and plenty of holiday cheer, all capped off by the beloved Lighted Parade. Hosted by Indianola Main Street, the Chamber of Commerce, and Hometown Pride, this magical community event fills hearts with joy and makes Indianola the place to be each Christmas season.
Indianola, Iowa
- Oskaloosa (Mahaska County): Oskaloosa hosts several festive events during the holiday season. Highlights include the “Turn on the Lights!” event, featuring illuminated downtown buildings, cookies, cocoa, and horse-drawn wagon rides. The “Dancing Lights” show runs nightly, while other events include a home decorating contest, a window decorating contest, and the Annual Lighted Christmas Parade. Additional activities include the Sieda Holiday Tour of Homes and the Merry Little Downtown Christmas celebration.
No matter which town you choose, you’re sure to experience the warmth and joy of the holiday season in Iowa. Each community offers unique experiences, so be sure to check local event calendars for the latest information on their Christmas celebrations. Happy holidays!
