Iowa City Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025
Your complete guide to the best christmas events in Iowa City and surrounding areas
The holiday season in Iowa City lights up downtown and the Ped Mall with glittering displays and community holiday activities that highlight local shops and theaters. With events like the Downtown Holiday PopβUp Market and Vue Rooftop New Year's Eve Celebration 2025, visitors will find festive events and things to doβfrom artisan markets to seasonal performances and familyβfriendly neighborhood gatherings.
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Christmas Markets
13 eventsHistoric villages transformed for Christmas celebrations
Other Christmas Activities
8 eventsLargest helium balloon parade in the Midwest
Editor's Picks (6)
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Rock Island Holiday Balloon Parade
(Davenport)
Largest helium balloon parade in the Midwest
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The Nutcracker
(Cedar Rapids)
Classic Tchaikovsky ballet with live orchestra
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Vue Rooftop New Year's Eve Celebration 2025
Exclusive rooftop New Year's Eve celebration with city views.
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Deck the Downtowns
(Davenport)
Holiday Display Challenge and Holiday Pickle Hunt
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Festival of Trees
(Davenport)
Midwest's largest helium balloon parade and designer tree auction.
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Noon Year's Eve Glow Skate
(Davenport)
Family-friendly New Year's Eve countdown with glow skating.
This Week / Coming Up (6)
Christmas Shows Near Iowa City
Christmas shows, theater performances, and holiday entertainment in Iowa City.
The Nutcracker
Immerse yourself in the magic of Tchaikovsky's The Nutcracker, a beloved holiday tradition...
View full details βAugustana Jazz Ensemble Christmas Concert
Get into the holiday spirit with the Augustana Jazz Ensemble's Christmas concert. This...
View full details βPentatonix: A Pentatonix Christmas Tour
Get ready for a spectacular holiday celebration as Pentatonix brings their 'Christmas in...
View full details βChristmas Lights Near Iowa City
Additional holiday activities and unique Christmas experiences in Iowa City.
Coralville Aisle of Lights
Experience the magical Coralville Aisle of Lights, where thousands of luminarias transform the...
View full details βTannenbaum Forest
Step into a winter wonderland at the Tannenbaum Forest, where a magical display...
View full details βEast Moline Christmas Walk & Lighted Parade
Get ready for the enchanting East Moline Christmas Walk & Lighted Parade! This...
View full details βChristmas Parties Near Iowa City
Festive dining experiences, holiday parties, and Christmas-themed food and drink events in Iowa City.
Vue Rooftop New Year's Eve Celebration 2025
Celebrate New Year's Eve 2025 with an exclusive rooftop party offering the best...
View full details βWide River Winery Limited Edition Holiday Wines
Celebrate the holiday season with Wide River Winery's limited edition festive wines. Indulge...
View full details βLatest News & Updates
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Iowa City Christmas FAQ
The biggest annual Christmas events in Iowa City often include large-scale holiday markets and community festivals, particularly in the downtown area. Keep an eye out for events organized by local businesses and community groups.
Iowa City often embraces traditions centered around its university community and vibrant arts scene, with events that blend local culture with classic holiday festivities. Look for unique performances and community gatherings.
Residential neighborhoods throughout Iowa City, particularly those with established homes like the Northside or areas near the University of Iowa, often feature beautiful Christmas light displays.
Christmas markets and local makers can typically be found in downtown Iowa City, at community centers, and sometimes on the University of Iowa campus. Check local event listings for specific market dates and locations.
Enjoying the neighborhood Christmas lights, attending free community events like tree lightings, and browsing local markets are excellent free options. Many libraries also offer complimentary holiday programming.
Families with kids often enjoy visiting local Christmas markets for crafts and treats, attending family-friendly shows at venues like the Englert Theatre, and exploring neighborhood light displays.