The Local Hub

Hunt for the Elves - Downtown Iowa City
2025-12-09 10:00 - 17:00, 2025-12-08 10:00 - 17:00, 2025-12-07 10:00 - 17:00, 2025-12-06 10:00 - 17:00 UTC | 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

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!

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

English as a Second Language
2025-12-08 18:00 - 19:00 | North Liberty Library, 520 W. Cherry St, North Liberty, Iowa, 52317, United States
Are you looking to improve your English in a relaxed and supportive environment? Whether you’re a beginner or looking to refine your skills, our ESL class is here to help you on your language journey.

What to Expect:• Casual Atmosphere: Enjoy learning in a low-key, friendly setting.• Interactive Sessions: Practice speaking, listening, and understanding English through engaging activities.• Supportive Community: Connect with others who are also learning English and share your experiences.

Conversations host, Alice, graduated from Millikin University in Decatur, IL in 2015, and then spent two years teaching English in Ukraine.
Come and join us at the library for a fun and educational experience!

Holiday Lights at the Lake - Drive Through Event
2025-12-08 17:30 - 20:30, 2025-12-06 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.

Book Club | “How About Now” by Kate Baer
2025-12-08 10:00 - 11:30 | Sidekick Coffee & Books, 1310 1/2 Melrose Ave, Iowa City, IA, 52246, United States
Sidekick Coffee & Books meets on the second Monday of every month!

Join us on Monday, December 8 at 10 am to chat about “How About Now” by Kate Baer
Purchase the Book Here >>> bit.ly/HowAboutNow_BookClub

About the Book
The third full-length poetry collection from the #1 New York Times bestselling author of What Kind of Woman. Renowned poet Kate Baer returns with a bold and compassionate collection that confronts the march of time in a shifting world. With her trademark candor and curiosity, Baer explores what it means to grow older, to release children into the wildness of their own lives, and to reclaim the ever-evolving self. Raw, luminous, and urgent, this collection channels Baer’s own journey to middle age into poems that are profoundly intimate yet resound universally, identifying the beauty, resilience, and fragility that arrive in every stage of life.

Grab a coffee, bring your thoughts, and join the conversation.
Everyone’s welcome!

The Nutcracker
2025-12-07 18:30 - 20:30, 2025-12-07 13:00 - 15:00, 2025-12-06 19:30 - 21:30, 2025-12-06 13:00 - 15:00, 2025-12-05 19:30 - 21:30 | 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.

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.

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.

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.

Sunday Morning Yin Yoga
2025-12-07 10:00 - 11:00 | Anahata Wellness Co-op, 2441 Coral Court, Suite 3, Coralville, Iowa, 52241, United States
Sunday Morning Yin Yoga: A Soft Start to Your WeekEase into your Sunday with a gentle yin practice designed to open the body, quiet the mind, and nourish the spirit. This class invites you to slow down and soften through long-held, floor-based postures that support deep release and inner reflection.

Each session offers a peaceful container for rest and renewal — a chance to reset your energy and connect inward before the week begins. From time to time, sessions may include Reiki, sound healing, or oracle cards to gently deepen your experience.

All are welcome here — all levels, all bodies, all hearts. Come as you are, and step into your Sunday feeling restored, spacious, and centered.

Santa Village at Hawkeye Downs
2025-12-06 13:00 - 21:00, 2025-12-05 18:00 - 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.

Santa Saturdays - Downtown Iowa City
2025-12-06 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.

Winter WANDERland
2025-12-06 11:00 - 21:00 | Field Day Brewing Co, 925 Liberty Way, North Liberty, Iowa, 52317, United States
Join us for Winter WANDER-land, a one-of-a-kind holiday celebration where Field Day Brewing Co. and Tin Roost transform into a connected festive village. Guests can stroll the illuminated pathway between both restaurants and wander freely back and forth to enjoy an entire day packed with holiday experiences.

This year, we’re bringing back the fan favorites that create pure seasonal joy:
Santa’s Return – Meet Santa and capture unforgettable holiday photos. Face Painting & Ornament Making – Creative, hands-on fun for kids and families. Real Reindeer Encounters – Get up close with Santa’s reindeer for a magical moment. Meet Anna, Elsa & Kristoff – Your Frozen friends are back to spread winter cheer.

With festive activities happening at both Field Day Brewing Co. and Tin Roost, the heart of Winter WANDER-land is the simple thrill of exploring—wandering the glowing pathway, discovering new experiences at every stop, sipping seasonal drinks, and making memories that last long after the snow melts.

Stay tuned for the full schedule of activities and times at both locations — coming soon!

Holiday Showcase
2025-12-06 11:00 - 13:00 | Hy-Vee At Crosspark Road, 3285 Crosspark Rd, Coralville, Iowa, 52241, United States
Saturday, December 6th | 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM

Join us for our final Holiday Showcase of the year, a festive celebration filled with excitement, community, and plenty of holiday cheer! Whether you’re finishing up your gift shopping or simply looking for a fun seasonal outing, this event is the perfect way to kick off December.

What to Expect:A wide selection of vendors featuring unique, handcrafted, and specialty holiday itemsLots of samples to taste, try, and enjoySeasonal favorites and exclusive offerings you can only find at our showcaseA warm, welcoming atmosphere to get you in the holiday spiritBring your friends, family, and festive energy — you won’t want to miss this final celebration of the season!We can’t wait to see you there!

Holiday Retail Open House
2025-12-06 10:00 - 17:00 | Downtown Iowa City, 315 S. Gilbert St., Iowa City, Iowa, 52240, United States
Join our downtown shops for the annual Holiday Retail Open House!
Each participating retailer will be hosting a holiday party at their store that includes snacks, drinks, or a small gift for you at each stop.
Participating stores and gifts to come.

Tractor Wagon Rides sponsored by Hills Bank
2025-12-06 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.

A Christmas Past in historic West Branch
2025-12-06 09:00 - 20:00 | Main Street West Branch, 127 W. Main Street, West Branch, Iowa, 52358, United States
𝑨 𝑪𝒉𝒓𝒊𝒔𝒕𝒎𝒂𝒔 𝑷𝒂𝒔𝒕 is set to return on Friday, December 5 & Saturday, December 6, 2025 in historic West Branch, Iowa (just 6 miles from Iowa City down I-80). Join us for West Branch’s traditional holiday festival featuring timeless activities throughout Main Street and beyond, including horse-drawn carriage and wagon rides, photos with Santa, train display, festival of trees, silent auction, treats around the fire and more!
Check back for more details!

Note: Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride Reservations (required) will open at 10:00am on Saturday, November 1, 2025 at mainstreetwestbranch.org/christmas

Register by November 21st for the Gingerbread House Contest: Join the West Branch PTO’s first annual Gingerbread House Decorating Contest—enter your creation and see (and vote for) the displays during Christmas Past Weekend. $5 Entry fee. All ages welcome! Full rules.

Register by November 19th for the Snowball Sprint 2K Run/Walk: Join the 2nd Annual Snowball Sprint at Cubby Park! Festive holiday attire encouraged! Register by Nov 19th to get the official Snowball Sprint Sweatshirt. Open to all ages and abilities!

Something For My Sibling: Help your kids experience the JOY of giving! Reserve a time for your child(ren) to pick out and wrap a FREE gift for a sibling (or loved one) during A Christmas Past. Hosted by Izzy’s Treasures.

Chili Cook-Off at The Black Rose: NEW this year! Sign up to compete and show off your own chili recipe! Guests will get to taste each entry and vote for the winner of the Golden Ladle! $5 entry fee per chili. Sampling fee TBD.

Holiday Market
2025-12-06 08:00 - 13:00 | Robert A Lee Community Recreation Center, 220 S. Gilbert St, Iowa City, Iowa, 52240, United States
Shop our annual holiday markets for unique handmade gifts while supporting local farmers and artisans! Enjoy a wide variety of seasonal products and food. Free entry; vendors located in the 1st floor gym and 2nd floor social hall.
Saturdays, Nov. 15 and Dec. 6 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. Robert A. Lee Rec CenteR

Holiday Vendor Fair
2025-12-06 08:00 - 12:00 | North Liberty Community Center, 520 W. Cherry St, North Liberty, Iowa, 52317, United States
Local vendors will have items on display and available to purchase in Roberts Gymnasium.
To sign up as vendor, contact Matt Meseck at mmeseck@northlibertyiowa.org or call (319) 626-5716. State if you need electricity.

Holiday Cookie Walk
2025-12-06 08:00 - 12:00 | North Liberty Library, 520 W. Cherry St, North Liberty, Iowa, 52317, United States
Just in time for the holidays, let us do your baking for you! Get your homemade holiday cookies and candies here in the library meeting rooms. $10 per pre-packaged dozen. Proceeds benefit the FRIENDS of the North Liberty Library.

We appreciate our generous volunteers who bake for us! Sign up to bake for this year’s sale! Decorated cookies are the most popular, but a variety that can be used to build a cookie gift tray is perfect. Contact Jennie Garner at the library or email Friends of the Library at friendsnorthlibertylibrary@gmail.com to volunteer to bake cookies this year.
