Festival of Trees & Lights
Visitors can wander through a ballroom filled with 90 decorated trees of various sizes, cast a vote in the People's Choice contest, and follow a scavenger hunt to earn a prize. The event features live entertainment from local music and dance troupes, visits with Santa, and a gift shop offering holiday decor and toys. Kids can enjoy hands-on crafts, slide around a sock skating rink, and ride the Festival Express Train.
What to Expect
Central Iowa tradition featuring 90 decorated trees benefiting Blank Children's Hospital.
Event Details
Ages
All ages (children 2 and under are free)
Neighborhood
Downtown
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Blank Children's Hospital
Food & Drink
The concessions area offers fresh-baked cookies, popcorn, snacks, chips, water and soda.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families with young children
Vibe
Festive and family-focused
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
$
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
None
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: $10 per person; children 2 and younger are free. Children's activities are included with admission. – Get tickets
- Hours: Friday, November 27 - 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Saturday, November 28 - 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Sunday, November 29 - 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Parking: Parking is available in the Convention Center parking lots for a fee, on the streets (free on Sunday), or in nearby city parking garages.
- Accessibility: Sensory Day on November 25 dims the lights, cuts noise and crowds, and offers a calming room.
Tips & Advice
- Bring a card or set up digital payment before arriving, because the festival is cashless and cash will not be accepted at event purchases.
- If visiting on Sunday, consider street parking, which is free; convention center lots and nearby city garages are other options.
- Check children’s weights before riding the Festival Express Train; it is limited to children weighing 70 pounds or less.
- Children’s activities are included with admission, and children two and younger enter free, which may help families plan their visit budget.
- For sensory-sensitive visitors, consider Sensory Day, which includes dimmed lights, reduced attendance, a calming room and modified activities.
Special Events & Promotions
- Sensory Day on Wednesday, November 25 has dimmed lights, a quieter train, much smaller crowds, a calming room and a secluded Santa visit.
- Tree Farm Silent Auction: guests bid to take home decorated 5-foot trees that come with donated goods and services.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What activities are available for children?
Children can enjoy crafts, slide on a sock skating rink, ride the Festival Express Train (for children 70 pounds and under), visit Santa, and participate in a scavenger hunt for a prize. Children's activities are included with general admission.
What food and drinks are available on site?
A concessions area offers fresh-baked cookies, popcorn, snacks, chips, water, and soda.
Is cash accepted at the event?
No, the Festival of Trees & Lights is entirely cashless.
What cause does the festival support?
The event is the largest fundraiser for Blank Children's Hospital, supporting services such as the Child Life program and the Center for Advocacy & Outreach.
Can visitors vote for their favorite tree?
Yes, attendees can participate in the People's Choice voting to select their favorite decorated tree.
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Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.