Des Moines Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025

Your complete guide to the best christmas events in Des Moines and surrounding areas

How we verify →
Christmas Markets (33 events) → Christmas Shows (20 events) → Christmas Lights (12 events) → Christmas Activities (32 events) →
Explore all categories ↓

Des Moines comes alive for the festive season as the historic district hosts Christmas markets, bright Christmas lights, and family-friendly performances. Events like the Des Moines Auxiliary Holiday Bazaar and the Waterfront Holiday Bazaar bring seasonal shopping and lively holiday activities. Walk along lit waterfront promenades, enjoy market stalls and concerts, and find many things to do that celebrate Des Moines’ coastal holiday charm.

Find the best Des Moines Christmas happenings this year!

Des Moines Christmas Events

Start Here

Christmas Markets

33 events
Des Moines Auxiliary Holiday Bazaar and Craft Market • Nov 7

Holiday bazaar with over 25 artisan vendors

Des Moines Christmas Markets →

Christmas Shows

20 events
Magical Strings 38th Annual Kent Celtic Yuletide Concert

Annual Celtic Yuletide concert with festive holiday music.

Des Moines Christmas Shows →

Christmas Lights

12 events
Zoolights • Nov 28 – Jan 4, 2026

Over one million lights transform the zoo into a winter wonderland.

Des Moines Christmas Lights →

Christmas Activities

32 events
Seattle Center New Year's Eve Celebration • Dec 31

Free New Year's Eve celebration with fireworks at the Space Needle.

Des Moines Christmas Activities →

Editor's Picks (6)

  1. Seattle Center New Year's Eve Celebration (Seattle)
    Free New Year's Eve celebration with fireworks at the Space Needle.
  2. WildLanterns at Woodland Park Zoo (Seattle)
    Immersive, larger-than-life holiday lantern displays at a zoo.
  3. Bellevue Botanical Garden d’Lights (Bellevue)
    Over half a million sparkling lights in whimsical garden shapes.
  4. Snowflake Lane (Bellevue)
    Complimentary nightly parade with falling snow and festive floats.
  5. Zoolights (Tacoma)
    Over one million lights transform the zoo into a winter wonderland.
  6. Festive Season at Fairmont Olympic (Seattle)
    Historic Seattle hotel's festive season with exclusive offers.

Events Happening Soon (6)

Auburn Gingerbread Contest Wed, Dec 3 View →
Victorian Christmas Festival Thu, Dec 4 View →
Ensemble Ballet Theatre's The Nutcracker Fri, Dec 5 View →
Bainbridge Island Winter Night Market Fri, Dec 5 View →
Amabile Choir Winter Concert "In the Stillness" Fri, Dec 5 View →
Santa Paws Sat, Dec 6 View →

Christmas Parties Near Des Moines

Festive dining experiences, holiday parties, and Christmas-themed food and drink events in Des Moines.

Jingle Bell Brunch 2025

Get ready for a magical morning of holiday cheer at the 2025 Jingle...

📍 Federal Way • Dec 6
View full details →
Latest Christmas news and updates in Des Moines

Latest News & Updates

Stay informed about holiday events and activities in Des Moines

See All Des Moines Christmas News

Des Moines Christmas Events Map

See every Christmas event, light display, and market on one map.

View Des Moines Christmas Events Map →
Des Moines Christmas events map

Also Near Des Moines

Seatac (3.2 miles) → Kent (4.4 miles) → Burien (4.6 miles) → Federal Way (5.5 miles) → Tukwila (5.6 miles) → Renton (7.7 miles) →
Christmas road trip adventure with festive characters

Christmas Events Road Trips & Weekend Getaways

Worth the drive for more holiday events near Des Moines!

Vancouver (123.7 miles) → Portland (131.4 miles) →

Looking for more? Explore all Washington Christmas Events →

Des Moines Christmas FAQ

What are the biggest annual Christmas events in Des Moines?

The Dome for the Holidays at the Botanical Garden and Jolly Holiday Lights at the Iowa State Fairgrounds are two of the largest annual events.

What holiday traditions are unique to Des Moines?

Des Moines is known for its vibrant neighborhood light displays and the annual Dome for the Holidays, which brings thousands of twinkling lights indoors.

Which neighborhoods are best for Christmas lights in Des Moines?

The Drake Neighborhood, West Des Moines, and Ankeny are popular for their festive light displays and walking trails.

Where can I find Christmas markets and local makers in Des Moines?

Downtown Des Moines and local community centers host holiday markets and vendor stalls featuring local makers and artisans.

What are the best free or budget-friendly holiday activities in Des Moines?

Neighborhood light displays, free holiday markets, and community events like caroling are great budget-friendly options.

What are good picks for families with kids in Des Moines?

The Dome for the Holidays, Jolly Holiday Lights, and family-friendly holiday markets are great for kids of all ages.

Find Christmas Events in Another City