As we get ever closer to Christmas Day, the number of local events across Iowa is increasing. There are plenty of special events, one-off get-togethers, and interesting opportunities to see and experience new things across the state.
Many of the local neighborhoods are already lit up with Christmas lights setting the stage for what is to come. For the kids who are excited for another seasonal holiday and time away from school work, they get the chance to see new sights. However, parents and single adults won’t miss out because there’s plenty of things to see and do for people of all ages.
Let’s look at a few of the interesting activities in Iowa this holiday season.
Gingerbread Storytime
On Thursday, December 21st, the Iowa City Public Library in South Linn Street is putting on a gingerbread themed event for preschoolers and their parents. The little ones will get to enjoy a story time reading with gingerbread themes, and then make Christmas crafts or gingerbread. There will also be some stories shown on a large screen. The event is free to attend.
While attending the Gingerbread Storytime with your child, you can fill in the time by visiting fabweb.org to check out the latest celebrity happenings and weird and wonderful news items that you’ve missed lately.
Eating with Santa
The Cedar Ridge Winery & Distillery is getting festive this season by having an early brunch on Saturday, December 23rd. A resident Santa will have arrived through the chimney to greet the kids and parents alike on the day too.
The meal includes a buffet with smoked bacon, prime rib, pancakes smeared in maple syrup, pastries, fruit and other tasty bites. The brunch is charged per adult or child over 6 years old and is available only through reservation (319-857-4300). Visits to see Santa are free of charge and don’t require a meal booking.
Pella
Pella is host to a Dutch community setup with the tree in Central Park all lit up for Christmas, and a few brave souls out singing Christmas carols and spreading cheer. There’s the Christmas Walk to see the various buildings and how they are seasonally decorated is run by the Pella Historical Society through to December 31st. The unusual architecture is likely to appeal to adults who can take in the retail stores after the tour. Students who are studying either history or architecture may also find the Christmas Walk of interest too.
Santa’s Castle at Storm Lake
The popular Santa’s Castle at 200 East 5th Street hosts Santa up to December 23rd before he has to climb back on his sleigh and ride off to deliver more gifts to the children. The under two years come free, aged 13 and younger is just $2.50 to visit with Santa, and older boys and girls cost $4.
For animal and Santa lovers, there’s the weekly pet night on Mondays between 6-8pm to bring your pets along. Just great for getting those perfect snapshots for Facebook and Instagram.
There’s plenty to keep you and the kids busy this holiday season in Iowa. The downtime city area is lit up with stores vying for your Christmas shopping dollar with special promotions and mini events ahead of the big day.
