Des Moines Christmas Markets 2025

Discover 8 verified christmas markets in Des Moines and nearby areas.

Last updated: December 17, 2025

Welcome to the guide for Des Moines Christmas markets, your go-to resource for finding festive shopping and seasonal treats. Des Moines Christmas markets offer a wonderful way to support local artisans and enjoy the holiday spirit.

Popular markets include the Downtown Des Moines Holiday Market and various beloved neighborhood markets near Des Moines, where you can browse artisan stalls and find unique gifts.

This guide covers both free and ticketed markets, featuring vendors, food & drink, and family-friendly activities. Explore these vibrant markets to enjoy the season and discover local treasures.

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All Christmas Markets Around Des Moines

Des Moines Holiday Boutique

Des Moines, IA

Nov 7 – Nov 9

Over 200 vendors at a premier holiday shopping event.

The Des Moines Holiday Boutique is a premier holiday shopping event featuring over 200 vendors offering unique gifts, artisan crafts, and festive decor. Discover new holiday apparel, toys, and gourmet treats, with special 'show deals' and hourly 'Boutique Bucks' drawings....

Holiday MarketFamily FriendlyHandmade Crafts

Festival of Trees & Lights

Des Moines, IA

Nov 28 – Nov 30

Fundraiser for Blank Children's Hospital's Child Life and Advocacy programs.

Step into a winter wonderland at the 42nd Annual Festival of Trees & Lights, a beloved Central Iowa tradition. Marvel at over 90 dazzling trees, enjoy festive crafts, a scavenger hunt, and meet Santa. This event supports Blank Children's Hospital,...

Holiday MarketFamily FriendlySanta Visits

Christkindlmarket Des Moines

Des Moines, IA

Dec 4 – Dec 14

Traditional European-style Christmas market with artisanal vendors and festive entertainment.

Immerse yourself in the magic of a traditional European Christmas market right in Des Moines. Discover unique, hand-crafted gifts from artisans, savor authentic German foods and warm mulled wine, and enjoy festive live entertainment. It's a perfect destination for families...

Christmas MarketHoliday MarketFamily Friendly

The Peppermint Trail

Des Moines, IA

Dec 13

A festive holiday trail with peppermint-themed specials and activities.

Experience the festive magic of The Peppermint Trail, a vibrant holiday event transforming The Avenues of Ingersoll & Grand and the Roosevelt Cultural District. Discover unique peppermint-themed window displays, enjoy live ice carving, and indulge in special holiday treats from...

Holiday MarketFamily FriendlySanta Visits

Holiday Hullabaloo

Des Moines, IA

Dec 5 – Dec 28

Immersive holiday experience with sock skating and Santa's friends.

Experience the magic of the holidays at the Holiday Hullabaloo, an immersive family-friendly event. They offer a delightful array of attractions including Santa's Workshop for crafts, Mrs. Claus's Kitchen for cookie decorating, and an indoor sock skating rink. Meet Santa's...

Holiday Markets And ShoppingFamily FriendlySanta Visits

Jingle on Main

West Des Moines, IA

Nov 20 – Dec 18

Shop local in historic Valley Junction.

Experience the magic of the holiday season at Jingle on Main, a festive event designed to bring the community together. This event encourages attendees to support local businesses and immerse themselves in the holiday spirit. Explore the charming streets, discover...

Holiday MarketShoppingFamily Friendly

Christmas in Olde Town

Altoona, IA 9 mi from Des Moines

Free

Nov 29

Historic downtown transformed into a winter wonderland

Experience the magic of Christmas in Olde Town, Altoona's annual holiday celebration. This festive event transforms the heart of downtown into a winter wonderland with live music, engaging activities for all ages, and a special appearance by Santa Claus. Don't...

Community CelebrationHoliday TraditionSanta Visits

Santa's North Pole Village Craft Sale

Ankeny, IA 10 mi from Des Moines

Nov 1

Over 100 Midwest artists and crafters at a 44-year-old tradition

Discover unique, handcrafted treasures at the Santa's North Pole Village Craft Sale, a beloved Ankeny tradition for over 44 years. This one-day event showcases the work of more than 100 artists and crafters from across the Midwest, offering a fantastic...

Holiday MarketHandmade CraftsArtisanal Products

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top Christmas markets to visit in Des Moines?

The Downtown Des Moines Holiday Market is a marquee event, alongside various beloved neighborhood markets near Des Moines. These markets feature a variety of local artisans and seasonal vendors offering unique gifts and festive foods.

When and where are the major Christmas markets held in Des Moines?

Major markets typically run from late November through December, with the Downtown Holiday Market located in central Des Moines. Neighborhood markets may vary in schedule but generally occur throughout the holiday season at community centers or local venues.

Are there admission fees or tickets required for Des Moines Christmas markets?

Many markets are free to enter, especially neighborhood and artisan markets. Some larger or special events may charge a small admission fee or require tickets, so it’s best to check each market’s details before attending.

Do Des Moines Christmas markets offer family-friendly activities?

Yes, many markets include family-friendly activities such as crafts, visits with Santa, live music, and seasonal treats. These features make markets enjoyable for visitors of all ages looking to celebrate the holiday season.

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