Cedar Falls Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025
Your complete guide to the best christmas events in Cedar Falls and surrounding areas
Cedar Falls' Christmas 2025 brightens the historic downtown and the University Avenue corridor with sparkling lights, seasonal entertainment, and community holiday activities. Local favorites like Holiday Hoopla Kickoff and Christmas Greetings on Main bring parades, carols, and family-friendly craft booths to the festive season. From candlelight concerts like Blue Violin Candlelight Christmas to neighborhood lights displays, there are plenty of things to do in Cedar Falls for visitors and residents looking for warm holiday gatherings and festive events.
Find the best Cedar Falls Christmas happenings this year!
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Editor's Picks (6)
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The Nutcracker
(Cedar Rapids)
Classic Tchaikovsky ballet with live orchestra
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Holiday Hoopla Kickoff
Santa's arrival and multiple festive holiday events.
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Christmas Greetings on Main
(Waverly)
Downtown transforms into a holiday wonderland with live window displays.
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Hawkeye Downs Santa Village
(Cedar Rapids)
Free admission holiday village with Santa and activities
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Winter WonderLOO
(Waterloo)
Downtown Waterloo's holiday celebration with Santa, movie, and bar hop.
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Waterloo Christmas Market
(Waterloo)
Festive market with local artisans
Events Happening Soon (6)
Christmas Shows Near Cedar Falls
Christmas shows, theater performances, and holiday entertainment in Cedar Falls.
Blue Violin Candlelight Christmas
Immerse yourself in the magic of the season with the Blue Violin's Candlelight...
View full details →The Nutcracker
Immerse yourself in the magic of Tchaikovsky's The Nutcracker, a beloved holiday tradition...
View full details →Christmas Lights Near Cedar Falls
Additional holiday activities and unique Christmas experiences in Cedar Falls.
Waterloo Lights the Night
Waterloo Lights the Night marks the joyous commencement of the holiday season. This...
View full details →Tannenbaum Forest
Step into a winter wonderland at the Tannenbaum Forest, where a magical display...
View full details →Other Christmas Activities Near Cedar Falls
Additional holiday activities and unique Christmas experiences in Cedar Falls.
John Deere Tractor and Engine Museum Holiday Celebration
Step back in time at the John Deere Tractor and Engine Museum for...
View full details →NewBo City Market Tree Lighting Ceremony
Join the community at NewBo City Market for their annual Tree Lighting Ceremony....
View full details →It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas
Experience the festive spirit of the holiday season at 'It's Beginning to Look...
View full details →Latest News & Updates
Stay informed about holiday events and activities in Cedar Falls
- Iowa Ranks High for Christmas Music and Festive States Published: Wed, Nov 26, 2025
- Eastern Iowa Holiday Lights and Santa Sightings Guide Published: Wed, Nov 26, 2025
Cedar Falls Christmas Events Map
See every Christmas event, light display, and market on one map.
Also Near Cedar Falls
Christmas Events Road Trips & Weekend Getaways
Worth the drive for more holiday events near Cedar Falls!
Cedar Falls Christmas FAQ
Annual Christmas events in Cedar Falls often include large holiday markets, community tree lighting ceremonies, and festive light displays throughout the city. Keep an eye on the Cedar Falls Visitor Center for a consolidated list of major seasonal happenings.
While many traditions are shared, Cedar Falls often embraces its community spirit through local craft fairs and neighborhood light decorating contests. The historic downtown area also tends to have a special charm during the holidays.
Established residential areas throughout Cedar Falls are known for their impressive Christmas light displays. Driving through neighborhoods off main roads often reveals beautifully decorated homes and yards.
Look for Christmas markets at venues like the University Plaza and various community centers. Local makers often showcase their crafts at these larger markets as well as smaller, pop-up artisan fairs throughout the season.
Enjoying the extensive neighborhood Christmas light displays is a wonderful free activity. Many community events, such as tree lightings and some holiday markets, also offer free admission and entertainment.
Families often enjoy visiting neighborhoods with elaborate light displays, attending local craft fairs with kid-friendly activities, and looking for Santa meet-and-greets. Check for special holiday performances at local theaters as well.