The Nutcracker
2025-12-06 13:00 - 15:00, 2025-12-06 19:30 - 21:30, 2025-12-07 13:00 - 15:00, 2025-12-07 18:30 - 20:30 UTC | The Englert Theatre, 221 E Washington St., Iowa City, Iowa, 52240, United States
The Englert Theatre and Nolte Academy are proud to present Iowa City’s annual production of The Nutcracker. This holiday classic comes to life with performances by dancers from Nolte Academy and features a live orchestra conducted by Carey Bostian. The ballet showcases exquisite costuming, enchanting sets, and captivating choreography under the direction of Nolte Ballet Director and Nutcracker Artistic Director, Loren Williams.

Santa Village at Hawkeye Downs
2025-12-06 13:00 - 21:00, 2025-12-12 18:00 - 21:00, 2025-12-13 13:00 - 21:00 | Hawkeye Downs, 4400 6th St SW, Cedar Rapids, IA, 52404, United States
Join us for a holiday experience like no other in Santa Village at Hawkeye Downs in 2025!
This FREE holiday event series will run from December 5th through December 21st on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays in the Hawkeye Downs Expo Center North Expo Hall. All ages are welcome to this FREE community event. No ticket or registration required. Celebrate the holiday season at Hawkeye Downs for visits with Santa, crafts, activities, games, photo opportunities, and more!

HOURS Friday 6:00PM to 9:00PMSaturday 1:00PM to 9:00PMSunday 1:00PM to 6:00PM
Santa Village will be CLOSED Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays, and Thursdays.

Here’s what to get excited about… Selfie stations, sponsored by Rinderknecht Associates, Cedar Rapids Bank & Trust, Impact Embroidery & Balster Pediatric Dentistry Coloring & Craft Station, sponsored by Target Hills Bank Letters to Santa Station Peppermint Putt Putt Golf Station, sponsored by Basepoint Wealth Mrs. Claus’s Cozy Corner, in partnership with the Cedar Rapids Independent Film Festival and Central Furniture Rescue

For just $5, guests can visit Santa for special holiday photos next to Santa’s Workshop, thanks to Kalona Mini Buildings. Santa will be available each night of the event until he flies into the sky on Christmas Eve.

Get ready to jump and play! The elves from H&H Fun Rides will host inflatables for kids inside Santa Village. Wristbands and tickets will be available for purchase in the Expo Center.

Guests are welcome to shop with local vendors at the Holiday Market. From clothing to ornaments to stocking stuffers and more, there is something for everyone in the market this winter.

Need a holiday treat? Hawkeye Downs will offer concessions, including hot cocoa, cookies, coffee, and other warm snacks.

On Sunday afternoons at 2:00PM and 4:00PM, we will host local celebrities reading holiday favorites in our special book corner near our fireplace.

Join local musicians for live holiday tunes in Santa’s Music Factory on Saturday nights from 6:00 to 8:00PM!

Sensory-Friendly Day with ChildServe at Santa Village will be held on Sunday, December 7th from 11:00AM to 1:00PM!

This public event series is FREE ADMISSION, with no registration or ticket required. More information is available on the Hawkeye Downs website at www.hawkeyedowns.org/santavillage.
Questions? Contact Hawkeye Downs at (319) 365-8656.

Holiday Lights at the Lake - Drive Through Event
2025-12-06 17:00 - 21:00, 2025-12-08 17:30 - 20:30, 2025-12-09 17:30 - 20:30, 2025-12-11 17:30 - 20:30, 2025-12-12 17:00 - 21:00, 2025-12-13 17:00 - 21:00 | West Overlook Campground, 4053 West Overlook RD NE, Iowa City, Iowa, 52240, United States
Embrace the festive spirit and make Holiday Lights at the Lake your treasured holiday tradition! As you drive through the enchanting West Overlook Campground, you’ll be captivated by our fifth annual community celebration. A magical mile of dazzling animated light displays awaits, complete with a captivating animated tunnel and countless sparkling arches and holiday figures.

West Overlook Campground is transformed into a whimsical winter wonderland. Delight in the playful antics of dancing polar bears, be awed by the giant poinsettia pot and forest, and join in the fun as we take you “Under the Sea”- a display new for 2025!

Take a heartwarming journey down “Memory Lane,” where a vibrant collection of illuminated trees pays tribute to cherished loved ones.

Many beloved displays are making a delightful return, including the “Farming in Iowa” area featuring “Snowmerican Gothic,” a joyful twist on Grant Wood’s timeless “American Gothic.”

Drive Through tickets start at $10.00 for a family car or van. We accept cash or credit at the gate, or pre-purchased tickets via Eventbrite *extra fees apply.
Hours: 5:30pm-8:30pm, Sun, Mon, Tues, Wed, Thurs5:00pm-9:00pm, Friday and Saturday*See Santa and Mrs. Claus every Wednesday and Sunday before Christmas!

This magical event shines brightly thanks to the incredible generosity of our community sponsors and the tireless dedication of volunteers. Guided by a passionate volunteer board of directors, every moment of the season is crafted with love.

All proceeds support The Bird House, Hospice Home of Johnson County.

We invite you to explore the wonder at holidaylightsatthelake.com, where you can view a full list of cherished sponsors, find magical volunteer opportunities, and learn more about the heartwarming mission of The Bird House.

Hunt for the Elves - Downtown Iowa City
2025-12-07 10:00 - 17:00, 2025-12-08 10:00 - 17:00, 2025-12-09 10:00 - 17:00, 2025-12-10 10:00 - 17:00, 2025-12-11 10:00 - 17:00, 2025-12-12 10:00 - 17:00, 2025-12-13 10:00 - 17:00, 2025-12-14 10:00 - 17:00 | Downtown Iowa City, 315 S. Gilbert St., Iowa City, Iowa, 52240, United States
Elves are hiding throughout Downtown Iowa City shops and restaurants! Join the Downtown Hunt for the Elves, a FREE kid-friendly scavenger hunt in downtown Iowa City, starting Saturday, November 29th.

Once you have found the elves in each participating store, find their name, use the stamp provided at each business, or write the name of the elf on the card to show proof you found it. Turn in your completed cards after finding 10 or more elves to Iowa Book or the Iowa City Public Library in the Kid’s Department to receive a small prize and be entered to win a grand prize gift basket

Santa Village at Hawkeye Downs (sensory friendly time)
2025-12-07 13:00 - 18:00 | Hawkeye Downs, 4400 6th St SW, Cedar Rapids, IA, 52404, United States
Join us for a holiday experience like no other in Santa Village at Hawkeye Downs in 2025! Sensory-Friendly Day with ChildServe at Santa Village will be held on Sunday, December 7th from 11:00AM to 1:00PM!
This FREE holiday event series will run from December 5th through December 21st on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays in the Hawkeye Downs Expo Center North Expo Hall. All ages are welcome to this FREE community event. No ticket or registration required. Celebrate the holiday season at Hawkeye Downs for visits with Santa, crafts, activities, games, photo opportunities, and more!

HOURS Friday 6:00PM to 9:00PMSaturday 1:00PM to 9:00PMSunday 1:00PM to 6:00PM
Santa Village will be CLOSED Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays, and Thursdays.

Here’s what to get excited about… Selfie stations, sponsored by Rinderknecht Associates, Cedar Rapids Bank & Trust, Impact Embroidery & Balster Pediatric Dentistry Coloring & Craft Station, sponsored by Target Hills Bank Letters to Santa Station Peppermint Putt Putt Golf Station, sponsored by Basepoint Wealth Mrs. Claus’s Cozy Corner, in partnership with the Cedar Rapids Independent Film Festival and Central Furniture Rescue

For just $5, guests can visit Santa for special holiday photos next to Santa’s Workshop, thanks to Kalona Mini Buildings. Santa will be available each night of the event until he flies into the sky on Christmas Eve.

Get ready to jump and play! The elves from H&H Fun Rides will host inflatables for kids inside Santa Village. Wristbands and tickets will be available for purchase in the Expo Center.

Guests are welcome to shop with local vendors at the Holiday Market. From clothing to ornaments to stocking stuffers and more, there is something for everyone in the market this winter.

Need a holiday treat? Hawkeye Downs will offer concessions, including hot cocoa, cookies, coffee, and other warm snacks.

On Sunday afternoons at 2:00PM and 4:00PM, we will host local celebrities reading holiday favorites in our special book corner near our fireplace.

Join local musicians for live holiday tunes in Santa’s Music Factory on Saturday nights from 6:00 to 8:00PM!

Sensory-Friendly Day with ChildServe at Santa Village will be held on Sunday, December 7th from 11:00AM to 1:00PM!

This public event series is FREE ADMISSION, with no registration or ticket required. More information is available on the Hawkeye Downs website at www.hawkeyedowns.org/santavillage.
Questions? Contact Hawkeye Downs at (319) 365-8656.

KidLit Pizzazz Festival
2025-12-07 14:00 - 17:00 | Sidekick Coffee & Books, 1310 1/2 Melrose Ave, Iowa City, IA, 52246, United States
KidLit Pizzazz Festival Sunday, December 7 2 – 5 PM | Author Meet & Greet 2:30 – 4:30 PM Sidekick Coffee & Books | 1310 1/2 Melrose Ave, Iowa City FREE

The KidLit Pizzazz Festival is back for its third year—and you’re invited!
Join for an afternoon celebrating children’s, middle grade, and young adult literature with a mix of holiday fun, family activities, and, of course, books.
Kick off the holiday season and get your shopping started with signed and personalized books from talented local authors and illustrators. Nothing makes a better gift than a story that lasts long after the wrapping paper is gone!
Here’s what’s in store: Author Meet & Greet + Book SigningsDiscover your next favorite story and have it signed on the spot.
Gift Wrap Station Wrap it up and cross a name off your shopping list.
Themed DrinksFestive sips for grown-ups and kids alike.
Craft StationA fun, creative stop for little hands.
Special Appearance by Dog ManSnap a picture with everyone’s favorite canine superhero!
Bring the whole family and join us for an afternoon of books, creativity, and holiday cheer.

Holiday Lights at the Lake - Walk Through Event
2025-12-07 17:30 - 20:30 | West Overlook Campground, 4053 West Overlook RD NE, Iowa City, Iowa, 52240, United States
Join us in celebrating the holiday season at Holiday Lights at the Lake!
Holidaylightsatthelake.com

Immerse yourself in the enchanting light displays, stroll among the trees, and soak in the festive ambiance. We invite you to walk the event route, offering families and friends a memorable journey through a dazzling wonderland of lights and music. Our goal is to unite the community by creating cherished experiences for families and friends for years to come.

Enjoy music throughout the campground, cozy up at fire-pit warming stations, and explore our goodwill donation concessions.
Gates open at 5:30pm and close at 8:30pm. The average time to walk the full loop once is about 25-30 minutes and you’re welcome to stay as long as you wish! Well behaved dogs are welcome. Tickets are $5.00 per person (2 years old and under enter free). Cash, Credit, and Eventbrite vouchers are accepted at the gate. Free Parking is available in the West Overlook Day Use Parking Lot.

All entrance fees support The Bird House, Hospice Home of Johnson County, while proceeds from concessions benefit Friends of the Coralville Lake.

Teddy Bear Story Time
2025-12-09 09:30 - 10:00 | Hilton Garden Inn, 328 S Clinton St, Iowa City, IA, 52240, United States
Snuggle up in the Teddy Bear Room at the Hilton Garden Inn for Teddy Bear Story Time! In partnership with the Iowa City Public Library, this special morning event invites little ones to enjoy stories that bring these fluffy, traditional, and timeless companions to life. Featuring charming tales like “Teddy Bear Postman” and “The Case of the Twin Teddy Bears,” books will be read amongst hundreds of teddy bear stuffed animals. Story time will also include short activities and participatory songs. This story time is designed for children ages 2-5, however, all ages are welcome.

WHERE: Hilton Garden Inn WHEN: Tuesdays Dec. 2, 9, 16, 23 from 9:30am – 10:00am

SIDEKICK STORYTIME: How the Grinch Stole Christmas!
2025-12-09 09:30 - 11:00 | Sidekick Coffee & Books, 1310 1/2 Melrose Ave, Iowa City, IA, 52246, United States
Sidekick Storytime: The Grinch Who Stole Christmas

Join us for a heart-warming (literally!) Grinch-themed storytime, followed by a sweet craft inspired by the Grinch’s growing heart. Perfect for little Whos of all ages!

Holiday Hoopla
2025-12-13 08:00 - 12:00 | Clear Creek Amana Middle School, 311 W Marengo Rd, Tiffin, IA, 52340, United States
Celebrate the Holiday Season Together!
Bring the whole family for a festive morning of memories, laughter, and holiday fun on December 13th!

8:00–10 AM — Breakfast With Santa (Ticketed)Kick off the day with a magical breakfast and early access to our Hoopla games. Get your tickets here: Coming soon

10:00 AM–12:00 PM — Free Holiday Fun!
Activities Include: Meet Santa Ornament Decorating Delicious Cookies Snowball Toss Candy Cane Fishing Game

Tractor Wagon Rides sponsored by Hills Bank
2025-12-13 10:00 - 16:00 | Downtown Iowa City, 315 S. Gilbert St., Iowa City, Iowa, 52240, United States
There is no better way to take in the sights and sounds of the holiday season than with a Tractor Wagon Ride through downtown. Enjoy a FREE whimsical ride in a decorated wagon pulled by a classic tractor from Bass Farms.

Rides run from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on a first-come, first-serve basis, departing every 15 minutes. Hop on outside of Hills Bank, located at the corner of Washington and Clinton Streets. Riders will receive a candy cane and can cozy up with a blanket for a festive ride around the city.

Santa Saturdays - Downtown Iowa City
2025-12-13 11:30 - 14:30 | FilmScene, 404 E. College St., Iowa City, Iowa, 52240, United States
Santa is making four special trips to Downtown Iowa City to meet the area’s good girls and boys. Families are invited to visit Santa as he makes his stops at FilmScene in the Chauncey. Kids are encouraged to drop off their letters and wishlists. Santa will be visiting FilmScene at the Chauncey from 11:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Visitors and families are welcome to visit Santa and capture their own photos.

Swisher’s A Very Merry Christmas Celebration
2025-12-13 16:00 - 19:00 | Swisher, Iowa, Swisher, Iowa, 52338, United States
A Very Merry Christmas Celebration in Downtown Swisher! Saturday, December 13th | 4–7 PM

Get ready for another fun-filled, festive evening in downtown Swisher at our annual Very Merry Christmas Celebration!

Enjoy a night full of holiday magic featuring: Lighted Christmas Parade Horse-Drawn Wagon Rides Real Llamas Live Princess Characters Kids Crafts Cookie Decorating Holiday Tree Walk Live Music Shop Local ‘n Social @ Vault Boutique & Plum Creek Boutique…and so much more!

The Jefferson-Monroe Fire Department will bring Santa Claus through town in the parade and stop by afterward (around 6:30 PM) for Hot Cocoa and photos with the kids outside Kava House!

Schedule of Events4:00–6:00 PM• Kids Crafts (Rose Barn)• Horse-Drawn Wagon Rides (by City Hall)• Live Princess Characters (by City Hall)• Real Llamas (Rose Barn)• Shop Local ‘n Social @ Vault Boutique & Plum Creek Boutique• Holiday Tree Walk• Cookie Decorating
6:00 PM – Lighted Christmas Parade on 2nd St.6:30 PM – Visit Santa Claus (in the shed outside Kava House)

Parade Participants:Have a business or organization that would like to enter a float in the Lighted Parade?It’s FREE to enter! Line-up starts at 5:30 PM at Jefferson Ave & 2nd St — no pre-registration required.
(Please, no Santa costumes on parade entries to avoid confusion for the kiddos—thank you!)

Note: Some activities are outdoors—please dress for the weather!
