Last updated: November 11, 2024
Enjoy the festive wonders of Cedar Falls with our detailed event guide. From Cedar Falls regulars to first-time tourists, this guide highlights the season's top events.
One popular attraction lighting up the holiday season is Shadrack’s Christmas Wonderland, featuring a breathtaking drive-through light show that captivates visitors. Another charming event is the MercyOne Festival of Trees, showcasing beautifully decorated trees while supporting a great cause. And the Holiday Hoopla Kickoff is something you definitely don't want to miss, with fun activities that bring the community together in celebration. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
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Cedar Falls Holiday Markets and Shopping
Jingle & Mingle
- What to Expect
- Holiday open houses with decorated windows and holiday lights.
- Description
- Jingle & Mingle is an event where you can find unique gifts during holiday open houses, stroll through beautifully decorated windows, and enjoy the sparkle of holiday lights.
- Where
- Cedar Falls | More Info : Jingle & Mingle
Small Business Saturday
- What to Expect
- Local shopping event with special deals and activities.
- Description
- Small Business Saturday in Cedar Falls is a day to celebrate local shopping with numerous merchants offering special deals and activities.
- Where
- Cedar Falls | More Info : Small Business Saturday
Cedar Falls Holiday Shows and Entertainment
Holiday Hoopla Kickoff
- What to Expect
- Santa's surprise arrival and fireworks display.
- Description
- The Holiday Hoopla Kickoff is a festive event in the Cedar Falls Downtown District, featuring Santa's arrival, live music, entertainment, and fireworks. It is a special evening capped off by a spectacular fireworks display over the Cedar River.
- Where
- Cedar Falls | More Info : Holiday Hoopla Kickoff
MercyOne Festival of Trees
- What to Expect
- Family-friendly holiday events with decorated trees and festive activities.
- Description
- The MercyOne Festival of Trees is an annual holiday celebration at the Gallagher Bluedorn Performing Arts Center in Cedar Falls, featuring decorated trees, family-friendly events, and a variety of activities including Girls Night Out, Veterans Holiday Breakfast, and Santa's Workshop.
- Where
- Cedar Falls | More Info : MercyOne Festival of Trees
Movie Magic
- What to Expect
- Free holiday movie screening with a coloring contest.
- Description
- Watch a free showing of the classic holiday film "Elf" at the historic Oster Regent Theatre, with the announcement of coloring contest winners.
- Where
- Cedar Falls | More Info : Movie Magic
Cedar Falls Other Holiday Activities
Santa's Workshop & Trolley Rides
- What to Expect
- Interactive Santa's Workshop with trolley rides.
- Description
- Visit Santa and his elves at River Place Plaza, where you can drop off letters to Santa and receive a handwritten reply. Enjoy free trolley rides between the Community Center and the Plaza, offering a loop of beautifully decorated lights and garland.
- Where
- Cedar Falls | More Info : Santa's Workshop & Trolley Rides
Breakfast at the North Pole
- What to Expect
- Breakfast with Santa and holiday friends.
- Description
- Join Santa and his friends for a fun morning of pancakes, sausage, and beverages at the Cedar Falls Community Center.
- Where
- Cedar Falls | More Info : Breakfast at the North Pole
Woodland Wonderland
- What to Expect
- Nature-focused educational programs and exhibits.
- Description
- Woodland Wonderland is an event that celebrates nature with activities and exhibits showcasing the beauty of the natural world. It features educational programs, interactive displays, and opportunities to connect with the environment.
- Where
- Cedar Falls | More Info : Woodland Wonderland
Santa's Workshop - Saturdays
- What to Expect
- Interactive Santa's Workshop with handwritten replies.
- Description
- Visit Santa and his elves at River Place Plaza, where you can drop off your letter to Santa and receive a handwritten reply. Enjoy the beautifully decorated lights and festive atmosphere.
- Where
- Cedar Falls | More Info : Santa's Workshop - Saturdays