christmas markets iowa 2025: best festive events and shopping experiences

51) Festive Finds in Washington

Washington, Iowa, invites you to check out its Christmas markets, bright displays, and seasonal crafts. Each event highlights handmade goods, unique foods, and creative holiday décor.

You can tour decorated apartments or just wander through the market stalls. In November, the 14th Annual Holiday Market & Open House runs during the day, and craft vendors fill the City of Washington.

Later in December, Ottumwa puts on Holiday Nights ‘N Lights. This event lights up the night with festive scenes and illuminated displays.

If you want to stay overnight, booking.com has plenty of nearby places to crash.

Date	Address	Time	Price	Where to Stay Nearby	Website
Nov 18, 2025	City of Washington, Iowa	9:00 am – 3:00 pm	Free	Washington hotels	14th Annual Holiday Market & Open House
Dec 9-15, 2025	Ottumwa, Iowa	Evening	Varies	Ottumwa hotels	Holiday Nights ‘N Lights

Both markets give you a different vibe, whether you like shopping, bright lights, or just hanging out with the community. Families and friends can easily join in.

52) Holiday Fanfare in Elkader

In December, you can stroll Elkader’s decorated streets and visit the annual German Christmas Market. Vendors from the area show off handmade crafts, local foods, and classic holiday items.

You’ll find gifts ranging from ornaments to baked goods. Kids get to meet Santa downtown and join in family-friendly activities.

Some years, a parade with decorated floats adds a bit of excitement to the market. The Holiday Traditions Open House happens the Saturday after Thanksgiving, and shops open early with discounts.

You can even catch a free screening of “Polar Express” at noon. If you’re staying overnight, Boarders Inn & Suites on booking.com keeps you close to the fun.

Here’s the main event info:

Date	Address	Time	Prices	Where to Stay Nearby	Website
December 4-7	Downtown Elkader, IA	Varies by event	Free	Boarders Inn & Suites	German Christmas Market
November 29	Participating Elkader merchants	Starts at 9:00 AM	Free	Boarders Inn & Suites	Holiday Traditions Open House

53) Winter Warmth Market – Mediapolis

You’ll find the Winter Warmth Market right in the center of Mediapolis, and the holiday mood feels super inviting. Local craftspeople set up stalls with handmade goods, festive decorations, and tasty foods—both sweet and savory.

Live music fills the air, and you can catch performances while browsing for gifts. Kids have their own activities, so families and groups always seem to feel welcome.

Each vendor brings something different, so you can wander and spot things that fit your taste. Walking through rows of decorated booths, meeting local sellers, and sampling fresh baked goods just feels right this time of year.

This event really brings the community together. You don’t need to pay to get in, and vendor prices just depend on what you pick out.

If you’re coming from out of town, nearby hotels in Mediapolis from Booking.com make it easy to stay overnight.

Event	Date	Address	Times	Prices	Accommodation	Website
Winter Warmth Market	Dec. 14-15, 2025	Mediapolis Town Center	10 a.m. – 7 p.m.	Free entry, vendor prices vary	Hotels in Mediapolis	Winter Warmth Market

54) Celebrate the Season at the West Union Christmas Market

Thinking about a classic holiday outing? The Christmas Cheer Market in West Union just might hit the spot.

The Market at White Barns hosts this event, and local artisans and food vendors fill the space with handmade crafts, festive decor, and seasonal snacks.

You’ll find plenty of creative gifts here—definitely not the same stuff you see at chain stores. Live music and bright holiday displays keep the mood fun and lively for families.

Local food stalls serve up warm drinks and snacks, which makes wandering the market a lot cozier. Since the event only pops up once each winter, you’ll want to mark your calendar early.

Dates	Location Address	Times	Admission	Where To Stay (Nearby)	Website
December 9-10, 2025	West Union, Iowa	10 AM-5 PM	Free	Hotels in West Union	The Market at White Barns

If you’re after a friendly, classic Midwest holiday vibe, this market in West Union feels like a solid pick for 2025.

55) Holiday Highlights and Festive Events in Clinton

Clinton in December lights up with holiday spirit. You can stroll or drive through the Symphony of Lights every Sunday, and it’s honestly hard not to smile at the 40+ lighted figures—castles, streams, and a gingerbread lodge, all glowing in the night.

Locals and visitors come together for these free, family-friendly evenings. If you’re into cars, the Hy-Vee Holiday Festival lines up a bunch of vintage rides—cars, motorcycles, custom builds—it’s a quirky mix of winter and wheels.

Throughout December, the city stays busy. Theater shows, music, and art classes fill the calendar, so families always have something new to try.

You’ll notice how the community comes together, whether you’re shopping, catching a performance, or just sampling treats from local spots.

Here’s a handy table for event dates, prices, and places to stay:

Event	Date	Time	Address	Cost	Where to Stay Nearby	Website
Symphony of Lights	Dec 7, 14, 21	5:30 PM – 8:00 PM	Clinton, IA	Free	Lodging in Clinton	Symphony of Lights in Clinton
Hy-Vee Holiday Festival	August	All Day	Clinton, IA	Varies	Lodging in Clinton	AllEvents Clinton Calendar
Citywide Holiday Events	Winter 2025	Varies	Clinton, IA	Varies	Lodging in Clinton	Clinton Holiday Events 2025

Most events are family-friendly, and you’ll find hotels close by for a quick getaway. Want more info? The Clinton holiday event calendar for 2025 has all the details.

56) Winter Marvels in Indianola

Main Facts

Indianola’s winter markets bring energy to the colder months. Local artisans set up booths with handmade gifts, and you’ll spot vendors selling everything from fresh produce to hot drinks.

Most markets stay indoors, so you can shop and snack without freezing. Folks here are friendly, and the pace is pretty relaxed.

Here’s a quick look at the main winter markets in Indianola, with dates and details:

Dates	Address	Times	Price	Places to Stay Nearby	Website
November 30 – December 2, 2025	Warren County Fairgrounds	10 AM – 6 PM	Free	Book nearby hotels	Christmas Markets in Indianola
December 7, 2025	115 North Howard Street	9 AM – Noon	Free	Find hotels in Indianola	Indianola Downtown Farmers Market

57) Holiday Experiences in Guthrie Center

Guthrie Center in December feels alive with holiday spirit. The Guthrie Center Farmers Market draws folks in with fresh produce, seasonal foods, and plenty of handmade crafts.

Local sellers bring thoughtful gifts and tasty treats. The community also puts on other winter events, like Figure-8 Racing at the Guthrie County Fairgrounds.

Even outside the markets, you’ll spot neighbors gathering for local events. These gatherings are small but full of character.

Check out this table to help plan your visit. Always double-check schedules since times can change.

Dates	Location Address	Time	Cost	Where to Stay Nearby	Website
Dec 1-23, 2025	304 State St, Guthrie Center, IA	10 AM-4 PM	Free Entry	Hotel Stuart	Guthrie Center Farmers Market
Aug 29-Sept 2, 2025	Guthrie County Fairgrounds, 408 W State St, Guthrie Center, IA	Various	Varies	Hotel Stuart	Guthrie County Fair

Before you go, check local details for the latest hours and prices.

58) Christmas Charm Market – Spirit Lake

Spirit Lake’s Christmas Charm Market offers a cozy, no-fuss holiday event. Local vendors fill their stalls with holiday ornaments, scarves, and all sorts of seasonal crafts.

The space glows with festive lights and music, and you’ll catch a whiff of winter treats as you wander. Kids love the bright displays and the energy in the air.

Hot drinks and gingerbread cookies are on hand if you need a snack. The market opens on Wednesdays and Saturdays, so you’ve got more than one chance to stop by.

Admission costs nothing, so you can swing in for a quick look or stay and browse. If you’re staying overnight, hotels nearby are easy to find.

Dates	Address	Times	Cost	Where to Stay Nearby	Website
Dec 1–24, 2025	1602 15th St, Spirit Lake, IA 51360	Wed: 7:30 AM–12:00 PM Sat: 7:30 AM–12:00 PM	Free	Spirit Lake hotels	Spirit Lake Events

59) Holiday Wonders in Fort Dodge

Quick Guide to Seasonal Events

Fort Dodge goes all-in on holiday celebrations. At The Fort Museum’s Christmas Market, local vendors and costumed characters bring Dickens’ stories to life.

You’ll see folks dressed as Scrooge or Oliver Twist, and tables piled with handmade gifts and treats. Santa usually pops in for photos too.

If you’re after something different, the Winter Flea Market and Hillbilly Sale is a good bet for antiques, tools, and sports gear. These events feel laid-back and attract a mix of locals and out-of-towners.

You’ll find even more holiday happenings online, including family photo sessions, parties, and festive food pop-ups.

Here’s a table with the main event info:

Event Name	Location	Dates	Times	Cost	Where to Stay Nearby	Website Address
A Dickens of a Christmas at the Fort	Fort Dodge, IA	Dec 1, 2025	9 AM – 4 PM	Free	Best Western Starlite Village	https://allevents.in/fort%20dodge/christmas-market/200027589288923
Fort Dodge Winter Flea Market	Fort Dodge, IA	Feb 10, 2025	TBA	Varies	Quality Inn Fort Dodge	https://christmasmarketusa.com/christmas-markets-iowa-2025-2/12/
More Fort Dodge Holiday Events	Fort Dodge, IA	Various	Various	Varies	AmericInn by Wyndham Fort Dodge	https://christmas-events-near-me.com/fort-dodge-ia/

60) Holiday Cheer on Main Street – Mount Pleasant

When you walk down Main Street in Mount Pleasant in December, you’ll spot bright lights and a festive buzz in the air. The Holiday Cheer on Main Street event really packs in fun for all ages.

Kids and adults line up to watch the parade, and honestly, the creative floats are a highlight. One year, a 22-foot-tall Frosty the Snowman float wowed everyone. Santa Claus shows up too, greeting families and handing out little gifts—kids love it.

The holiday market sits nearby, full of local vendors selling crafts, ornaments, baked treats, and snacks. You might find a unique gift or just grab something tasty for yourself. Young visitors can hop on carriage rides or play games, which adds a bit of extra excitement.

If you’re a fan of lights, don’t miss the Festival of Lights. The town sets up a big holiday light display and even hosts a fun run and walk through it—lots of folks say it’s their favorite part. The downtown area feels welcoming and friendly, making it easy to relax, shop, and celebrate with friends or family.

Here are key details:

Dates	Location	Time	Cost	Where to Stay Nearby	Website
December 7-8, 2025	124 S Main St, Mount Pleasant	5:30–8:00 PM	Free	Check hotels in Mount Pleasant	Festive Frolic on Main

Want more events? Check out the Iowa Christmas Markets 2025 guide.