Waterloo Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025
Your complete guide to the best christmas events in Waterloo and surrounding areas
Waterloo greets Christmas 2025 with Holiday lights, Christmas markets and winter festivals centered around downtown attractions and the Waterloo Christmas Market and Winter WonderLOO. From Waterloo Lights the Night to cozy market stalls and seasonal performances, the city offers lights displays, festive events and plenty of activities for families and visitors to enjoy.
Find the best Waterloo Christmas happenings this year!
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Editor's Picks (6)
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The Nutcracker
(Cedar Rapids)
Classic Tchaikovsky ballet with live orchestra
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Winter WonderLOO
Downtown Waterloo's holiday celebration with Santa, movie, and bar hop.
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Waterloo Christmas Market
Festive market with local artisans
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Hawkeye Downs Santa Village
(Cedar Rapids)
Free admission holiday village with Santa and activities
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Holiday Hoopla Kickoff
(Cedar Falls)
Santa's arrival and multiple festive holiday events.
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Christmas Greetings on Main
(Waverly)
Downtown transforms into a holiday wonderland with live window displays.
Events Happening Soon (3)
Christmas Lights Near Waterloo
Additional holiday activities and unique Christmas experiences in Waterloo.
Waterloo Lights the Night
Waterloo Lights the Night marks the joyous commencement of the holiday season. This...
View full details →Tannenbaum Forest
Step into a winter wonderland at the Tannenbaum Forest, where a magical display...
View full details →Christmas Shows Near Waterloo
Christmas shows, theater performances, and holiday entertainment in Waterloo.
Blue Violin Candlelight Christmas
Immerse yourself in the magic of the season with the Blue Violin's Candlelight...
View full details →The Nutcracker
Immerse yourself in the magic of Tchaikovsky's The Nutcracker, a beloved holiday tradition...
View full details →Other Christmas Activities Near Waterloo
Additional holiday activities and unique Christmas experiences in Waterloo.
John Deere Tractor and Engine Museum Holiday Celebration
Step back in time at the John Deere Tractor and Engine Museum for...
View full details →NewBo City Market Tree Lighting Ceremony
Join the community at NewBo City Market for their annual Tree Lighting Ceremony....
View full details →Holiday Wreath Workshop
Discover the joy of creating your own festive holiday wreath at this engaging...
View full details →Waterloo Christmas Events Map
See every Christmas event, light display, and market on one map.
Also Near Waterloo
Christmas Events Road Trips & Weekend Getaways
Worth the drive for more holiday events near Waterloo!
Waterloo Christmas FAQ
Waterloo hosts several significant annual Christmas events, often including large community tree lightings and popular holiday markets. Keep an eye on local event calendars for details on these major seasonal celebrations.
While many traditions are shared, Waterloo often embraces its community spirit through local craft fairs and neighborhood light displays. The emphasis on local makers and community gatherings makes the holiday season feel particularly special here.
Many residential neighborhoods in Waterloo go all out with Christmas lights, creating magical displays. Driving through well-known areas known for their festive decorations is a popular way to see the best lights.
You can find Christmas markets and local makers at various community centers, public squares, and event venues throughout Waterloo. These markets are excellent places to discover unique, handcrafted gifts and seasonal treats.
Enjoying the dazzling neighborhood Christmas lights and attending free community events like tree lightings are wonderful budget-friendly options. Many markets also offer free admission, allowing you to soak in the festive atmosphere.
Families often enjoy visiting local Christmas markets for crafts and treats, attending festive shows, and exploring neighborhoods with impressive light displays. Many community events are specifically designed with children in mind.