The Brenton Skating Plaza in Des Moines has been a popular spot for holiday activities. People gathered to take photos around the Christmas tree during the East Village Promenade in November 2025.
Des Moines News & Updates
Stay informed about the latest events and activities in Des Moines
Monday, January 19, 2026
Wednesday, January 14, 2026
A new sports bar focusing on women's sports opened its doors on Ingersoll Avenue in Des Moines. The establishment officially began operations on Christmas Eve.
Saturday, January 10, 2026
A legal case discussion references a Christmas Eve scenario. The content mentions gifts beneath a Christmas tree and a return trip to Des Moines.
Friday, January 2, 2026
The Newton Cardinals basketball teams are scheduled to resume play this week after their Christmas break. They will be traveling to Des Moines Hoover for a non-conference game on Friday night.
Thursday, January 1, 2026
As the holiday season concludes, residents in the Des Moines metro area are looking for ways to dispose of their Christmas trees. Various options are available to help with this post-holiday task.
A mother gave birth to her child under a Christmas tree in a hospital lobby, describing the event as 'the greatest gift.' This unique birth occurred during the holiday season.
Wednesday, December 31, 2025
A Ukrainian family residing in Iowa City was hoping for a Christmas miracle this holiday season. However, the father remains stuck in Germany, preventing their reunion.
The Des Moines Children's Museum is planning a new home with a bigger vision for 2026. December feels a lot like Christmas for the Iowans behind the museum's expansion.
MercyOne will celebrate the holidays by sharing photos of babies born on both Christmas and New Year's Day. This includes newborns from MercyOne Des Moines.
Sunday, December 28, 2025
Over 1000 flights nationwide were canceled due to winter storms, impacting travelers at the Des Moines Airport. This disruption occurred following the Christmas holiday, causing significant travel headaches.
This segment discusses ACC Basketball Christmas gifts, detailing what each ACC team received. The content is presented by WOI and is available via the Des Moines News - We Are Iowa App.
Iowans gathered on Christmas Eve to show support as the bodies of two fallen Iowa National Guard soldiers returned home. The solemn event took place in Des Moines.
Iowa National Guard troops killed in Syria returned to Des Moines on Wednesday, marking a solemn Christmas Eve for their grieving families. The return was a significant event for the state.
This article mentions a classic Christmas theme in relation to sports, including basketball and NBA content. It is associated with Des Moines, IA.
The Broncos-Chiefs Christmas Day NFL game was noted as being much closer than anticipated. This sports recap is associated with the NFL on NBC and Des Moines, IA.
An anonymous donor covered emergency room fees at a Colorado animal hospital, an act described as a 'Christmas miracle.' This heartwarming story is mentioned in relation to Des Moines, IA.
The period between December 26th and January 2nd is identified as one of the most dangerous travel windows of winter in Iowa, particularly in Des Moines. Drivers are advised to exercise caution during this post-Christmas time.
Saturday, December 27, 2025
Experts warn that small, button-sized batteries found in many Christmas toys like handheld games and watches can pose a danger to children. Parents should be aware of potential risks.
The Osceola-Sentinel Tribune is recognizing donors who contributed to the Toys for Christmas initiative. This program ensures that children receive toys during the holiday season.
Friday, December 26, 2025
The 20th annual Perry Community Christmas Dinner celebrated two decades of providing food and fellowship. Organizer Deb Miller rallied volunteers to focus on community.
A historic Des Moines theater has reopened after more than a decade, described as a Christmas miracle by its co-owner. The Ingersoll Dinner Theater is now revamped.
A decades-old Christmas village display is bringing holiday crowds to an Iowa town. The popular attraction has been a long-standing tradition for many.
The Bright Country Lights display is pushing forward despite repeated weather challenges. This Christmas lights attraction is located at 8930 W.
Meals on Wheels and Oaknoll have united to deliver holiday cheer to local seniors. This initiative aims to bring joy to the community during the festive season.
Nike has released a new Caitlin Clark commercial on Christmas Day. The advertisement features the basketball star during the holiday.
Thursday, December 25, 2025
An Iowa nonprofit is hosting a free, to-go Christmas dinner in Des Moines to support families in need. This event offers a warm meal and assistance to those facing challenges during the holiday season.
This article looks back at how Christmas toys in Des Moines have changed over the years. It features historical photos, including a 1932 image of a girl with a dollhouse dining set.
Des Moines will experience a brown Christmas this year, with temperatures not as warm as initially predicted. The article discusses the likelihood of a white Christmas in the area.
Wednesday, December 24, 2025
The Salvation Army's Red Kettle season in Des Moines is underway, highlighting a growing need within the community. While Christmas may be approaching, fundraising efforts will continue to support those in need.
City buildings in Des Moines will have adjusted hours and closures for the Christmas holiday. Garbage and recycling collections will also be delayed by one day during Christmas week.
Many Des Moines metro stores will be operating with reduced hours on Christmas Eve. A guide is available to help shoppers determine how late stores will be open.
Information is available regarding the Christmas Eve hours for grocery stores in the Des Moines metro area. This includes hours for convenience store chains like Git-N-Go and Kwik Trip.
Des Moines is experiencing above-average temperatures that are shaping Christmas travel this week. Pale winter sunshine is expected to break through high clouds across central Iowa.
Despite a snowy start to winter in northern Iowa, a white Christmas is not guaranteed for everyone. The weather patterns mean that not all areas will wake up to snow on Christmas morning.
Mild temperatures are continuing in Des Moines, remaining above average as Christmas approaches. Stronger winds are expected to bring winter temperatures back to Iowa later.
Pediatric emergency physicians are warning parents across Iowa to carefully inspect Christmas gifts. This alert comes after children were hospitalized due to a hidden accessory found in a gift.
The remains of two Iowa Guardsmen killed in Syria will arrive home in Central Iowa on Christmas Eve. A ceremony will be held in Des Moines for the fallen soldiers.
Tuesday, December 23, 2025
Leisure Lounge hosted Albia's annual Free Christmas Dinner, sponsored by First Iowa State Bank. This event provided a meal for the community.
The national tour of "Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical" had a week-long run at the Des Moines Playhouse. This event offered holiday entertainment.
The Salvation Army's Angel Tree program is providing Christmas assistance to a Des Moines family after a difficult year. This program helps families in need during the holidays.
Monday, December 22, 2025
Iowa, including Des Moines, is expected to experience historic warmth on Christmas Day. Record temperatures may be challenged as the region heads above 50 degrees.
Des Moines and the surrounding Iowa areas are anticipating a mild week leading up to Christmas. Warming sunshine is expected today, with temperatures staying mild throughout the week.
Iowa is set to experience unseasonably warm temperatures on Christmas Day, potentially challenging daily record highs. Des Moines and nearby communities can expect conditions to feel more like spring.
Sunday, December 21, 2025
The classic holiday story 'Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas' has been brought to the stage at Des Moines Performing Arts. This production offers a theatrical experience for the holiday season.
The Rise Ministries Christmas special, titled 'Peace in the Chaos,' will air on Christmas Eve. Viewers in Des Moines can catch it on WHO13.
Southeast Iowa is being assessed for the possibility of a white Christmas this year. Des Moines County has already recorded significant snowfall since Thanksgiving weekend.
An Iowa mother is continuing her late son's legacy by organizing a holiday toy drive. This initiative, known as Bentley's Annual Battle Buddy Christmas, aims to bring joy to others.
A collection of archive photos from the Des Moines Register offers a look back at Christmas traditions in Des Moines' past. These images showcase historical holiday scenes from the area.
Saturday, December 20, 2025
A free webinar titled "A Renaissance Christmas - Remix" is available for registration. The event focuses on a Christmas story and is accessible to Des Moines and surrounding Iowa areas.
An Iowa mom is continuing her late son's legacy with an annual holiday toy drive. Donations are being accepted until the week of Christmas at Yellow Brick Road Childcare centers in the Des Moines area, including Norwalk and West Des Moines.
The Salvation Army of Des Moines received a surprise holiday donation when a rare gold coin was discovered in one of its iconic red kettles. This find is being celebrated as a special Christmas-season surprise.
A chewy, gooey chocolate pie from Des Moines' Pie Birds is featured as one of the best Christmas pies to bake. This recipe is described as having the soul of an oatmeal cookie with added whiskey for flavor.
Tips are provided for last-minute Christmas shopping, focusing on the convenience of buying online and picking up in-store. This advice is aimed at shoppers in the Des Moines area.
Charity Sew Day volunteers have created Christmas stockings for patients at the VA Hospital in Des Moines. This initiative aims to bring holiday cheer to veterans.
An Iowa family's popular Christmas light display features over 200,000 lights synchronized to music. The dazzling outdoor display is a significant attraction for the holiday season.
The article discusses the historical weather patterns that could lead to a white Christmas in Des Moines. It references past years with significant snowfall around the holiday.
A look back at what Christmas shopping in Des Moines has been like over the years is presented through a collection of images. The content also mentions toys being prepared for delivery to needy families.
Rebekah Stuber, a cake creator from Des Moines, shares her expertise on flavorful spice cakes, featured among dazzling Christmas cake recipes. Her creations are noted for their taste and style.
Friday, December 19, 2025
Get ready for the 12 Bars of Christmas crawl in Des Moines, featuring check-in, crawl locations, and after-parties. This event is scheduled to take place from 4 PM to midnight.
A family farm north of Red Oak in Montgomery County transforms into a nightly holiday destination each winter. This extensive Christmas display continues to shine brightly, honoring a father's legacy.
The Preservation Hall Jazz Band will be celebrating a Creole Christmas in Des Moines at Hoyt Sherman Place. This event promises a unique holiday musical experience.
Discover cozy breakfast ideas perfect for Christmas morning, including a recipe from Pie Bird Pies in Des Moines. These recipes aim to make your holiday breakfast delicious.
Looking for activities during winter break in Des Moines? Several family-friendly events are available, offering fun for all ages. Check out options like board game days and outdoor hikes.
Thursday, December 18, 2025
With Christmas just a week away, now is the perfect time to experience the festive events available. Many holiday activities are happening in Des Moines before the season concludes.
Experience 'How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical' at the Des Moines Civic Center. This theatrical production brings the beloved holiday story to life on stage.
Participate in the Christmas Bird Count at the Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge in Prairie City, IA. This event is a long-standing tradition for bird enthusiasts.
Regional Medical Center in Manchester is continuing its tradition of gifting newborn babies their first Christmas stockings. This heartwarming initiative celebrates the holiday season for new families.
Winterset, Iowa, is highlighted as the most likely city in the state to host a Hallmark Christmas movie. Its small-town charm and potential for snow make it a perfect setting.
Wednesday, December 17, 2025
Several Des Moines restaurants are preparing festive Christmas Eve and Day dining options. Patrons can enjoy special menus, from prime rib to traditional holiday fare.
The cost of Christmas decorations has increased this year, impacting consumers in Des Moines. This rise in prices affects various holiday items, including Christmas trees.
Enjoy your favorite holiday music at upcoming Christmas concerts in Des Moines. These events offer a festive atmosphere for celebrating the season.
Fareway is facilitating Toys for Tots donations to ensure every child experiences the magic of Christmas. This initiative aims to bring holiday cheer to families.
Chances for a White Christmas in Des Moines, Iowa, are slim this year. Residents may need to adjust their expectations for a snowy holiday.
Mariah Carey's iconic holiday song, 'All I Want for Christmas Is You,' has broken chart records. The song continues to be a festive favorite during the Christmas season.
NEW Cooperative, Inc. held its annual Hams for Hunger event, supporting food pantries across Iowa. This initiative helps provide essential food items during the holiday season.
A poll has identified the best family-friendly Christmas Day walks across the United States, including a notable trail in Des Moines, Iowa. The Gray's Lake Trail is highlighted for its suitability for holiday strolls.
An analysis examines the record levels of holiday spending among Iowans and the potential for accumulating debt. This report explores the financial impact of the festive season.
The Antolik Christmas Lights display in Bettendorf, IA, is mentioned in a report about holiday spending. This local display is part of the festive decorations seen during the season.
A Waukee tattoo shop has donated $15,000 worth of toys to an Iowa nonprofit, aiming to make Christmas special for local families. This generous act supports children in need.
Experience 'How the Grinch Stole Christmas - The Musical' in Des Moines. This holiday show brings a beloved Christmas story to life on stage.
Tuesday, December 16, 2025
Hope Ministries is providing free Christmas Day ham dinners for families in the Des Moines area. Residents can sign up to receive a meal for the holiday.
A family in Northeast Missouri is back with their creative haybale Christmas display for 2025. The article mentions Des Moines in relation to Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds ordering flags to be flown.
Several Iowa grocery stores are providing Christmas meal deals for the 2025 holiday season. These deals are designed to help families find affordable options for their holiday meals.
Monday, December 15, 2025
Hope Ministries is providing thousands of Christmas meals this holiday season, including ham dinners with sides. These meals will be delivered to families in need.
The '12 Bars of Christmas' event is scheduled to take place in Des Moines. This event includes a stop at Pints Bar Rooftop - PBR Country.
Sunday, December 14, 2025
The Christkindlemarket in downtown Des Moines has announced changes to its operating hours. The annual German-inspired Christmas market will close early on Saturday and has adjusted hours for Sunday.
Saturday, December 13, 2025
New Life Church in Des Moines is bringing back its 'Christmas on the Hill' event. This event offers a festive holiday experience for the community.
Des Moines is illuminating the holiday season with sparkling neighborhood lights. Residents are encouraged to catch a glimpse of the festive displays.
A nature hike is scheduled at Brown's Woods in West Des Moines. The event will meet at 9:00 AM at the park's location.
You can watch 'A Charlie Brown Christmas' for free this weekend. Details on how to stream the classic holiday special are available.
Hanna Rumora will perform Candlelight Christmas Carols in Aledo. Rumora has previously performed with the Des Moines Metro Opera and Orchestra Iowa.
Looking for a festive way to celebrate Christmas in Des Moines? Several metro restaurants are offering special Christmas menus for dinner.
Friday, December 12, 2025
The Dallas County Sheriff's Benevolent Association hosted its annual Shop With A Cop program. Children filled out Christmas lists before heading to a local Walmart to shop.
The Iowa Stage Theater Company is performing 'A Christmas Carol,' a production they are familiar with. This show brings a classic holiday story to life for audiences.
Governor Kim Reynolds and her family are hosting a Christmas celebration at the Terrace Hill residence in Des Moines this Sunday. This event opens the governor's residence to the public for holiday festivities.
Thursday, December 11, 2025
The Upper Des Moines Opportunity office in Storm Lake is seeking individuals and families to adopt a family for the Christmas season. This program helps ensure families have what they need during the holidays.
Students at Capitol View in Des Moines received new winter gear thanks to a donation from the Rotary Club Des Moines AM. This donation aims to help children before Christmas.
Wednesday, December 10, 2025
Iowa State University sets up a Christmas tree for display each year near Beardshear Hall. Students traveling from the Des Moines airport can find flights for the holiday break.
A new Des Moines Edition of Monopoly has been released just in time for Christmas. Properties on the board include local landmarks like Blank Park Zoo and the Iowa State Capitol.
The Fleur Cinema in Des Moines will be showing classic Christmas films this week. Screenings include 'A Christmas Story' and 'Black Christmas' starting December 10th.
An Indianola farm is celebrating its 43rd year of selling Christmas trees. This long-standing tradition provides fresh trees for the holiday season to the local community.
The Des Moines County Historical Society hosted its second 'A Very Heritage Christmas' event. This dinner and party was held at the Heritage Center to benefit the Phelps House.
An Iowa family is continuing the Wreaths Across America tradition to honor a late veteran advocate. This initiative places wreaths on veteran gravesites, including in Des Moines.
Tuesday, December 9, 2025
Krampus events are being held in various locations, including Des Moines, Iowa. These events are part of a growing interest in the folklore surrounding the Christmas season.
Deputies will be serving meals at Old Scratch Pizza as part of a Christmas charity event. This initiative aims to support the community during the holiday season.
A Christmas display in Indiana, known as Christmas Acres, suffered significant damage when vehicles drove through it. Authorities are investigating the incident.
Duncan Ballroom is set to host a Christmas Appreciation Night that also serves as a food bank fundraiser. This event aims to bring the community together for the holidays.
Operation Christmas Meal is distributing 27,000 free pork loins to Iowa families in need. This initiative by the Deb and Jeff Hansen Foundation aims to help families during the holiday season.
Two children from Iowa have had their ornaments selected to hang on national Christmas trees. These ornaments represent designs from Iowa for the America250 celebration.
Sunday, December 7, 2025
A Christmas dinner event, titled 'Anchored in Love,' was held to honor single mothers. The event took place at the Iowa Events Center.
Wartburg College's annual Christmas concert draws nearly 6,000 attendees. The concert is performed at Neumann Auditorium and in West Des Moines.
The 15th year of Operation Christmas Meal is making a stop in Calhoun County. The event will be at the Iowa State Fairgrounds in Des Moines on Monday.
This article provides essential safety tips for setting up your Christmas tree at home. It aims to prevent potential hazards associated with holiday decorations.
Saturday, December 6, 2025
Experience German-inspired Christmas traditions at the Des Moines Christkindlmarket, which has returned to Principal Park. Vendors offer festive products and traditional food, alongside Iowa craft beer.
Join a local event in Des Moines, IA, where you can paint four adorable festive Christmas motifs for the holidays. This event is part of the local things to do and weekend festivals.
The annual German-inspired Christkindlmarket has returned to downtown Des Moines, bringing festive products and traditional food to Principal Park. Regional vendors will sell hand-crafted items, with Iowa craft beer also available.
The Iowa State Fair is offering a cookie dough sale as a sweet holiday gift option. This event provides a unique Christmas gift idea for those looking for something special.