Guide to holiday festivities in Ames

Winter has arrived, bringing with it a season full of excitement and cheer! Even as the temperature drops, there are countless festive events and activities that will warm your heart and create lasting memories. Whether you’re in the mood for cozy indoor gatherings or thrilling outdoor adventures, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this winter. Explore these must-see holiday events and activities that will make your winter season unforgettable!

Merry and Bright Holiday Weekend

Kick off the holiday season in and around Ames, Iowa, the weekend of Dec. 5-8. You’ll find festive shopping, music, food, family fun, light shows, and more during the Merry and Bright Holiday Weekend. Make this your best holiday weekend ever!

Winter Wonderscape: Experience the magic of the holidays at Reiman Gardens’ Winter Wonderscape in Ames. This enchanting outdoor walk-through holiday light show featuring more than 150,000 lights illuminates the gardens, creating a festive atmosphere that’s perfect for family outings and holiday memories. The event takes place from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings in December, plus Dec. 23. Get your tickets now!
Santa Express: Take a ride on the railroad with Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad’s Santa Express. Train departures are Fridays at 6 p.m.; Saturdays at 10:30 a.m., 1 p.m., 3:30 p.m., and 6 p.m.; and Sundays at 10:30 a.m., 1 p.m., and 3:30 p.m. The trip will take you to the pumpkin patch where you can select the perfect pumpkin! On this journey you will cross the Bass Point Creek High Bridge and will last approximately an hour and a half!
Beautiful Land Holiday Market: You won’t want to miss the Beautiful Land Holiday Market, a carefully curated holiday marketplace, set in the lush surroundings of Prairie Moon Winery & Vineyards. This is hand-crafted and vintage shopping at its best! The hours are Friday 6-9 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m.-4 p.m., and Sunday 12-5 p.m.

Luminary Walk

Let the light guide your way on a special Luminary Walk to welcome winter at McFarland Park! This is a self-guided walk around a complete loop, which is about one mile on a paved trail. Make sure to dress in layered clothing appropriate for the weather! The event starts at 6:00 p.m. and ends at 8:30 p.m. Registration is due Dec. 9!

Twas the Night Before the Circus

Twas the Night Before the Circus is a holiday-themed circus show designed to bring wonder to audiences of all ages. From aerial and cyr wheel, to hula hooping and juggling, we have a little something for everyone! This is a fantastic fit for theater-goers looking for family-friendly holiday entertainment.

Holiday Farmers’ Market

Mark your calendars for Dec. 21 for a festive shopping experience with Ames Main Street’s Holiday Farmers’ Market! Discover unique gifts, festive decor, farm-fresh meats, treats, and so much more — all handcrafted or homegrown by local artisans and producers. Bring holiday cheer to your home and shop local this season!