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The Peppermint Trail
Des Moines, IA
Festive holiday trail with local artist showcases and activities.
About
Step into a festive wonderland at The Peppermint Trail, a beloved holiday event that transforms The Avenues of Ingersoll & Grand and Roosevelt Cultural District into a vibrant celebration. Local shops and eateries offer special holiday treats and themed items, while a Winter Window Showcase highlights the creativity of local artists. Families can enjoy activities like a Gingerbread House Decorating Contest, meet-and-greets with Santa, and live ice carving demonstrations.
Our Take
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and individuals looking for festive holiday activities and local shopping.
Vibe
Festive, community-oriented, artistic, and cheerful.
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
Free To Attend, With Costs For Shopping And Food.
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
Moderate
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.
Location
Event Details
Duration
All day
Ages
All ages
Schedule
Activities run throughout the day with specific times for various events like Santa visits (10 a.m. - Noon), Gingerbread House Decorating Contest (10 a.m. - 4 p.m.), Ice Carving (Noon - 2 p.m.), and trolley rides (Noon - 4 p.m.).
Organizer
The Avenues of Ingersoll & Grand
Practical Information
Parking
280+ public, on-street parallel parking stalls along Ingersoll Avenue are always free, but please be mindful of the 2-hour parking limit between 9 AM–4 PM. Some shops and restaurants have their own private, off-street parking lots. A map is available for on-street and off-street parking options.
Pet Policy
No pets allowed (service animals welcome)
Food & Drink
Participating businesses offer holiday specials, treats, and themed items.
Tips & Advice
- Download the event map beforehand to plan your route and make the most of the trolley rides and various activity locations.
- Arrive early for Santa visits and the Gingerbread House Decorating Contest, as these popular activities may have limited capacity or wait times.
- Explore the Winter Window Showcase at your own pace, appreciating the unique artistic displays in each participating business's window.
- Take advantage of the free on-street parking, but be mindful of the 2-hour limit during operating hours, or utilize the convenient public transportation options.
- Check the event schedule for specific times of performances like the Roosevelt High School Choir caroling and the live ice carving demonstrations to catch them live.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of activities are available for families?
Families can enjoy meeting Santa for photos, participating in a Gingerbread House Decorating Contest, listening to carols from the Roosevelt High School Choir, and taking festive trolley rides.
Where can I find parking?
There are over 280 free on-street parallel parking stalls along Ingersoll Avenue, with a 2-hour limit between 9 AM and 4 PM. Some businesses also offer private off-street parking.
How can I get around during the event?
Free holiday trolley rides are available throughout the day, and the area is also well-served by DART public transportation routes 11 and 60. The district is also very walkable.
Are there opportunities for shopping?
Yes, many local shops and businesses along The Avenues will be offering holiday specials, themed items, and discounts as part of the Peppermint Trail.
What is the Winter Window Showcase?
The Winter Window Showcase features local artists who create unique holiday-themed displays in the windows of participating businesses, adding an artistic flair to the event.