Rock Island Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025
Your complete guide to the best christmas events in Rock Island and surrounding areas
Rock Island's winter season brings festive lights and Christmas markets to the riverfront and downtown districts, pairing seasonal entertainment with community arts and family activities. Events such as the Augustana Jazz Ensemble Christmas Concert and the Quad Cities Christmas Arts & Craft Fair showcase music and handmade gifts for the festive season. From holiday attractions to winter festivals and evening lights tours along the river, there are plenty of things to do in Rock Island that blend small-town charm with cultural events and seasonal shopping.
Find the best Rock Island Christmas happenings this year!
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Christmas Markets
8 eventsMidwest's largest helium balloon parade and designer tree auction.
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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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.
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Skate with Santa
(Davenport)
Holiday-themed ice skating events with Santa and festive activities.
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Wide River Winery Limited Edition Holiday Wines
(Davenport)
Limited edition holiday wines inspired by European traditions
Events Happening Soon (6)
Christmas Shows Near Rock Island
Christmas shows, theater performances, and holiday entertainment in Rock Island.
Augustana Jazz Ensemble Christmas Concert
Get into the holiday spirit with the Augustana Jazz Ensemble's Christmas concert. This...
View full details →Pentatonix: A Pentatonix Christmas Tour
Get ready for a spectacular holiday celebration as Pentatonix brings their 'Christmas in...
View full details →The Grand Ol’ Christmas Show
Step into the festive spirit with 'The Grand Ol’ Christmas Show,' a spectacular...
View full details →Christmas Lights Near Rock Island
Additional holiday activities and unique Christmas experiences in Rock Island.
East Moline Christmas Walk & Lighted Parade
Get ready for the enchanting East Moline Christmas Walk & Lighted Parade! This...
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 →Coralville Aisle of Lights
Experience the magical Coralville Aisle of Lights, where thousands of luminarias transform the...
View full details →Christmas Parties Near Rock Island
Festive dining experiences, holiday parties, and Christmas-themed food and drink events in Rock Island.
Wide River Winery Limited Edition Holiday Wines
Celebrate the holiday season with Wide River Winery's limited edition festive wines. Indulge...
View full details →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 →Rock Island Christmas Events Map
See every Christmas event, light display, and market on one map.
Also Near Rock Island
Christmas Events Road Trips & Weekend Getaways
Worth the drive for more holiday events near Rock Island!
Rock Island Christmas FAQ
While specific events can vary, Rock Island often hosts community holiday festivals and numerous local craft fairs throughout the season. Keep an eye on local event listings for the most anticipated annual gatherings.
Rock Island, like many communities, embraces traditions like festive light displays in neighborhoods and community gatherings. Specific unique traditions often emerge from local organizations and community-led events each year.
Many residential neighborhoods in Rock Island are known for their enthusiastic Christmas light displays. Driving through various local streets, especially those with a history of decorating, is the best way to discover these festive sights.
Christmas markets and artisan fairs are typically held at local community centers, event venues, and sometimes in outdoor public spaces throughout Rock Island. Check local event calendars for specific dates and locations.
Enjoying neighborhood Christmas lights, attending free tree lighting ceremonies, and browsing festive window displays are great free options. Many community events also offer low-cost or free entertainment throughout the season.
Families often enjoy visiting neighborhoods with elaborate Christmas lights, attending local holiday markets with activities, and seeking out Santa meet-and-greets. Many community events are specifically geared towards children and families.