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 Pop‑Up Market and Vue Rooftop New Year's Eve Celebration 2025, visitors will find festive events and things to do—from artisan markets to seasonal performances and family‑friendly neighborhood gatherings.
Find the best Iowa City Christmas happenings this year!
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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
Classic Tchaikovsky ballet with live orchestra
Augustana Jazz Ensemble Christmas Concert
Christmas concert by Augustana Jazz Ensemble and Jazz Lab Band
Pentatonix: A Pentatonix Christmas Tour
Acclaimed a cappella group performing holiday classics
Christmas Lights Near Iowa City
Additional holiday activities and unique Christmas experiences in Iowa City.
Coralville Aisle of Lights
Miles of paper sack luminarias lighting up the town
Tannenbaum Forest
A forest of Christmas trees with German holiday charm.
East Moline Christmas Walk & Lighted Parade
Community Christmas Walk and Lighted Parade
Christmas 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
Exclusive rooftop New Year's Eve celebration with city views.
Wide River Winery Limited Edition Holiday Wines
Limited edition holiday wines inspired by European traditions
View Our Interactive Map for More Events Around Iowa City
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Also Near Iowa City
Iowa City Christmas FAQ
Weekday evenings tend to be less crowded. Peak times are weekends in December, especially closer to Christmas.
Most events offer on-site parking. Check individual event pages for specific parking information and fees.
Most venues are accessible. Contact individual events for specific accessibility accommodations.