Iowa Holiday Festivals Spark Seasonal Spirit
December 3, 2024
By Gretchen Westdal Centers
Chestnuts roasting by the open fire.
Jack Frost nipping at your nose.
Yuletide-tide carols being sung by a choir.
The holidays often evoke a dreamy, cozy scene of family members and loved ones gathering to participate in simple yet significant acts. Some would argue that these moments are the ones that are most important to carve out time for and uphold. But, oftentimes, the holiday season's hectic schedule — parties, shopping, cooking — can distract us from taking the time to embrace the simple pleasures of fireside chats, Jack Frost and holiday music.
One special way to embrace the simplicity of the holiday season is by visiting local holiday celebrations throughout Iowa. Lucky for us, there are numerous ones to choose from, ranging from small-town festivals filled with merriment to larger gatherings in cities sparkling with the sights and sounds of the holiday season.
Pioneer Village Winter Wonderland
The Pioneer Village Winter Wonderland in Le Mars is a delightful combination of small-town charm and a lively, spirited atmosphere. It is a great way to spend a weekend in December and reflect on the true meaning of the holidays: community and cheer.
Tucked up in the northwest corner of the state, Le Mars is best known for being the ice cream capital of the world. Wells Blue Bunny is headquartered there, and the town is home to many a frozen novelty. And while some may not be reaching for a bowl of ice cream or popsicle in the brisk December air, the town creates a full-scale village complete with seasonal delights that will fill visitors with warmth and even a sweet treat or two.
Pioneer Village, which has been organized by the Le Mars Chamber of Commerce for the past two years, unfolds its magic at the Plymouth County Fairgrounds. For two weekends, December 7–8 and 14–15, you can wander through enchanted grounds filled with festive sights and sounds.
Imagine quaint wood buildings aglow with twinkling lights surrounded by whimsical inflatables wobbling in the wind. Experience the enchantment of horse-drawn carriage rides, perhaps even as snowflakes land on little lashes. A firepit glows ready and warm to welcome those who wish to warm up by roasting marshmallows and catching up with friends and family. Santa is nearby to listen to Christmas wish lists and pose for a picture.
In Century Hall, visitors can view an array of trees decorated by local businesses — each one as unique as the business that adorned it. Nearby, stately gingerbread houses stand waiting to be judged in a friendly contest that beckons the sweet-toothed.
The historic Round Barn, built in 1918 and on the National Register of Historic Places, is transformed into a festive wonderland. Step inside to view the enchanting display of cherished holiday novelties that line the walls from top to bottom. You may even want to stay for the live entertainment that happens each night.
“This is the second year that the chamber has overseen Pioneer Village Winter Wonderland. However, it has been going on for more than 20 years,” explains Lori French, executive director of the Le Mars Chamber of Commerce. “I had the pleasure of attending the event in previous years, which left a lasting impression on me. I expressed to the organizer my willingness to lend a hand should she require assistance. She gracefully passed on the cherished endeavor she had nurtured for over two decades. Thus, in a moment of collective agreement, the Chamber board decided to weave it into our tapestry of community events.”
Nurturing Community
The Chamber of Commerce starts decorating and setting up in mid-September and finishes at the end of November. Residents pitch in to help string lights, set up displays, and create special touches that enchant the village.
“It takes a village to set up a village,” laughs French. “Pioneer Village Winter Wonderland is just a magical place that brings nostalgia as you walk through. It reminds you of grandma’s house or traditions your family has had in the past. It unites a community and creates a memory.”
A Christmas Past
After spending time in Northwest Iowa, load up the sleigh — or car to get there in a timely fashion — and head over to West Branch. The city is best known for being home to the Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum, but during a special weekend in December, it transforms into a magical Christmas of yesteryear. The event, A Christmas Past, happens on December 6 and 7 and lines West Branch’s Main Street with activities for everyone — the young and young at heart.
100 Years in the Making
Downtown West Branch has held a Christmas celebration for more than 100 years. The same buildings—downtown has 16 buildings on the National Historic Register—that were decorated a century ago are still adorned in festive greenery and glimmering lights today. It’s a tradition that has been bringing residents and visitors to the town that boasts not only an impressive presidential legacy but also a commitment to cultivating cheer.
Over the two days of A Christmas Past, there are more than two dozen different events to partake in. Each one is designed to harken back to the special simplicity of the holiday season: gathering with loved ones to experience delight and togetherness.
“This is a special holiday festival that features timeless activities in our historic Main Street District,” explains Jessi Simon, executive director of Main Street West Branch, the organization that puts on the festival. “It's very much ‘Hallmark Christmas movie’ vibes. A tried and true, step-back-in-time event with something for all ages. It’s a really great opportunity to appreciate the simple joys of the holiday season by creating memories together.”
Something For Everyone 
What better way to create cherished memories than by starting with a horse-drawn carriage ride through historic West Branch bundled up with friends or family? Follow that up with hot cocoa while roasting marshmallows over a Belgian oven. You can wander in and out of the 45 local shops that stay open to browse for potential gifts. Even pop-up shops assemble for the festival so you can find that unique gift for your hard-to-shop-for aunt.
The air is filled with the sounds of live musical entertainment and carolers singing your favorite holiday songs as you wander over to the Hoover Presidential Foundation. There, pause and reflect on the festive trees decorated in this year’s theme of “Holiday Movie Magic.” If you’re hungry, scout out the many complimentary snacks, from popcorn, cookies, donuts and more.
The fun continues with craft stations for kids to make their siblings a homemade gift. There are centerpiece-making classes and opportunities to make holiday décor. The fire station hosts a free bonfire and hot dog roasting event. The days are filled with wholesome opportunities to spend time with loved ones and create holiday traditions.
Simon recommends that first-time visitors look at the map and schedule of events to ensure they don’t miss out on any fun. Some events require advanced registration, but many are open to pop into. From Santa visits to story time to a 2K Snowball Sprint, you're sure to walk away feeling a bit merrier no matter how you spend your time at A Christmas Past.
Presence Is the Perfect Present
For the lucky, the holiday season isn’t filled with endless gifts; it’s filled with creating happy, lasting memories with loved ones and being present in the moment. Gifts come and go, but memories last a lifetime. Luckily, Iowa has abundant opportunities to get out and celebrate the holiday spirit while creating memories that, one day, can be remembered fondly. The holidays are a time to connect, from intimate family gatherings to larger celebrations with people from all over the state. So, whether you are a family through relation or one that’s chosen, building yearly holiday traditions is a fulfilling way to way to spend the holiday season.
The More, The Merrier
Discover other holiday festivals throughout the state!
Jingle in the Junction
Dec. 5, 12, 19
5 – 8 p.m. West Des Moines
Holiday Promenade at Des Moines East Village
Friday from Nov. 22–Dec. 20
Des Moines East Village
Jolly Holiday Lights
Nov. 29–Jan. 4
Iowa State Fairgrounds
Colfax Country Christmas
Dec. 7
10 W. Howard St. in Colfax, 4 p.m.
Christmas by the Lake
Dec. 7
Clear Lake
Christmas In Atlantic
Dec. 5–21
Atlantic
Winter Wonderscape Light Show
Various dates in December
Ames