Experience the magic of the holidays! 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.
Reiman Gardens / Dec. 4-6 (+ Thurs/Fri/Sat evenings in December)
University Museums, in conjunction with ISU Winterfest, celebrate the holiday season at the Farm House Museum. Take part in free Victorian yuletide-themed activities and crafts while you enjoy holiday treats.
ISU campus / Dec. 5
Join us for what has become a tradition for families across the Midwest. Take a ride on the Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad’s Santa Express, a journey that will take you from Boone to the North Pole and back!
Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad / Dec. 5-7, (Thurs/Fri/Sat evenings in December)
You won’t want to miss this carefully curated holiday marketplace, set in the lush surroundings of Prairie Moon Winery & Vineyards. This is hand-crafted and vintage shopping at its best!
Prairie Moon Winery / Dec. 5-7
Enjoy an old-fashioned downtown celebration with lighted snowflakes, carolers, ice sculptures, visits with Santa, and special surprises! Plus, get a jump on your holiday shopping! Snow Magic activities continue throughout the month of December.
Ames Main Street / Dec. 4
WinterFest is a celebration of the winter season at Iowa State, with a unique combination of winter-themed activities, displays, and traditions for ISU students and community.
Memorial Union, ISU campus / Dec. 5
The 15th TUBACHRISTMAS in Ames is a free and fun-for-all-ages musical event featuring tubas, euphoniums, baritones, and sousaphones playing popular holiday tunes.
Stephens Auditorium / Dec. 6
The Ames Holiday Home Tour is sponsored by Altrusa. Tour the homes of community supporters to benefit local non-profits.
Ames / Dec. 6
Experience the magic of the holiday season with an enchanting evening of music at the ISU Holiday Concert.
Stephens Auditorium / Dec. 7
Large craft and vendor show with over 50 booths full of amazing handmade crafts and your favorite retailers. Concessions on site.
Boone County Fairgrounds / Dec. 5-6
Let luminaries light your way on a special walk to welcome winter. Walk is self-guided; complete loop is about one mile on a paved trail. Dress in layered clothing appropriate for the weather.
McFarland Park / Dec. 6
Enjoy a fun night painting and sipping in front of the fireplace in the clubhouse at Homewood Golf Course! Some snacks will be provided by Homewood Golf Course.
Homewood Golf Course / Dec. 6
Mark your calendars for an enchanting evening of shopping, delicious treats, and supporting local student businesses. At the market, you’ll discover a treasure trove of unique, handcrafted gifts, food, art, and more.
Beardshear Hall / Dec. 5
Every year the ISU Theatre Directing students get to choose, cast, and bring to life an exciting array of ten-minute plays by playwrights both old and new. Admission is free.
Fisher Theater / Dec. 6
Mother’s Thrift and Makers Market is returning for 2025! Whether you’ve got gently-loved vintage finds, handmade crafts, artsy goods, or re-sale treasures, we want YOU to be part of the fun!
Mother’s Pub / Dec. 7
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