Dubuque Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025
Your complete guide to the best christmas events in Dubuque and surrounding areas
Dubuque rolls out the festive season with Holiday lights and festive events concentrated along the riverfront and historic Millwork District in 2025, offering cozy winter experiences. From The Nutcracker and Christmas at Heritage Center to the Dubuque Tree Lighting Ceremony, visitors can enjoy Santa visits, holiday activities, seasonal concerts, illuminated streets and community markets that highlight local traditions.
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Editor's Picks (6)
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Christmas Wizards: A Night of TSO
(Freeport)
Electrifying Trans-Siberian Orchestra tribute with dazzling lights.
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The Nutcracker – 2025
Annual Christmas tradition with Tchaikovsky's iconic ballet.
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Dubuque Tree Lighting Ceremony
Community tree lighting ceremony
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Christmas at Heritage Center "Come, Messiah"
Spiritual Christmas concert with multiple university ensembles.
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Symphony of Lights Holiday Festival
(Clinton)
Over 250 magical light displays in a 1.1-mile loop.
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2025 FHN Festival of Trees
(Freeport)
Multi-event holiday celebration with a gala and tree displays
Events Happening Soon (4)
Christmas Lights Near Dubuque
Additional holiday activities and unique Christmas experiences in Dubuque.
Night of the Luminaria and Living Windows
Galena transforms into a magical wonderland for the Night of the Luminaria and...
View full details →Symphony of Lights Holiday Festival
Experience the magic of Clinton, Iowa's annual Symphony of Lights Holiday Festival. This...
View full details →Christmas Markets Near Dubuque
Additional holiday activities and unique Christmas experiences in Dubuque.
2025 FHN Festival of Trees
Experience the magic of the holiday season with the 2025 FHN Festival of...
View full details →Marion Festival of Trees and Lights
Experience the magic of the holiday season at the Marion Festival of Trees...
View full details →Christmas Parties Near Dubuque
Festive dining experiences, holiday parties, and Christmas-themed food and drink events in Dubuque.
Sinatra & Friends: The Classic Crooners New Year's Eve
Ring in the New Year with an unforgettable night of classic tunes! Bryan...
View full details →Other Christmas Activities Near Dubuque
Additional holiday activities and unique Christmas experiences in Dubuque.
Dubuque Tree Lighting Ceremony
Join the community for a heartwarming tree lighting ceremony to usher in the...
View full details →Holiday Wreath Workshop
Discover the joy of creating your own festive holiday wreath at this engaging...
View full details →Latest News & Updates
Stay informed about holiday events and activities in Dubuque
- Dubuque Art Museum Receives Donation for New Campus Published: Tue, Dec 2, 2025
- Tri-State Activities Easy on Your Wallet Published: Tue, Dec 2, 2025
Dubuque Christmas Events Map
See every Christmas event, light display, and market on one map.
Also Near Dubuque
Christmas Events Road Trips & Weekend Getaways
Worth the drive for more holiday events near Dubuque!
Dubuque Christmas FAQ
The biggest annual Christmas events in Dubuque often include large holiday light displays and community-wide celebrations. Look for events centered around the downtown area and major public venues.
Dubuque's holiday traditions often blend classic Midwestern festivities with its unique riverfront heritage. Specific traditions might include special events along the Mississippi Riverfront or historical celebrations.
Many residential neighborhoods throughout Dubuque are known for their festive Christmas lights, especially areas with well-established homes that decorate extensively. Driving through historic districts often yields beautiful displays.
Christmas markets and local makers can typically be found in Dubuque's downtown area, at community centers, and sometimes at local historical societies or arts organizations.
Free activities include admiring neighborhood Christmas lights and attending community tree lighting ceremonies. Many churches and public spaces also offer free holiday concerts or events.
Families with kids often enjoy visiting Santa, attending festive holiday shows, and exploring neighborhood light displays. Many local venues offer special programming tailored for younger audiences during the season.