christmas markets iowa 2025: best festive events and shopping experiences
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71) Holiday Highlights in Jefferson
Jefferson gets busy in December with holiday events for all ages. Holiday markets pop up on the streets, offering local crafts, baked treats, and handmade gifts.
If you’re looking for something special or just want to enjoy a festive walk, you’ll find plenty to see.
On Christmas Eve, Jefferson hosts community meals and holiday performances. You can join a group dinner or catch a seasonal show with friends or family.
If you’re up for some outdoor fun, the town’s ice skating rink adds a classic winter vibe.
There’s even a holiday marathon for anyone who wants to stay active. Runners and casual walkers both join in, keeping the tradition alive.
Santa usually stops by during these events, so kids tend to have a blast.
Here’s a table with details for Jefferson’s main holiday happenings in 2025, plus some stay suggestions:
| Date | Address | Time | Price | Where to Stay Nearby | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dec 24, 2025 | Various Locations in Jefferson | Varies by Event | Free – Varies | Hotels in Jefferson | Holiday events in Jefferson |
72) Christmas Market Festivities in Nevada
December in Nevada, Iowa, means a bustling holiday marketplace. The Christmas Sparkles market takes over the city square with stalls decked out in twinkling lights and festive colors.
You’ll find all sorts of goods—handmade crafts, ornaments, and classic holiday sweets.
As you wander between stalls, you’ll hear winter music and the happy sounds of families. The event attracts both locals and out-of-town guests who want a traditional holiday experience.
There’s more than just shopping. You can try ice skating or catch a live holiday performance.
Local vendors serve up hot drinks and festive snacks, so it’s easy to spend an afternoon here.
Want to plan your visit? Here’s what you need to know:
| Name | Dates | Address | Time | Price | Where to Stay Nearby | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Christmas Sparkles | Dec 1 – Dec 23, 2025 | Nevada City Square | 10 am – 6 pm | Free | Hotels in Nevada, IA | Christmas markets in Iowa 2025 |
73) Holiday Excitement in New Hampton
There’s no shortage of festive fun in New Hampton when June rolls around. Heartland Days brings the whole community together with a lively parade and fireworks in the evening.
If you’re a fan of live music, don’t miss The Pork Tornadoes—they always draw a crowd.
For souvenirs, check out the Maker’s Market. Local vendors display their handmade crafts, so you’ll have lots of options for holiday gifts.
Kids usually love the Family Fun Zone, especially the kiddie tractor pull and Lil Miss Heartland Pageant.
Event Details
| Date | Address | Time | Price | Accommodation Nearby | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| June 7-8, 2025 | Downtown/Mikkelson Park, New Hampton, IA 50659 | All day | Free | Hotels near New Hampton | New Hampton Heartland Days |
74) Winter Grace Holiday Market in Marengo
The Winter Grace Holiday Market pops up in Marengo every December. You’ll find it at 800 East Marion Street, running for two days.
Regional vendors set up booths with handmade items, local crafts, food, and holiday decorations. Entry is free, and families often stop by to pick out unique gifts or enjoy some seasonal snacks.
The market feels friendly and relaxed. All ages are welcome, and people come back year after year for the variety and the chance to support local makers.
Most stalls showcase products from the area, along with classic holiday treats.
Here’s the event info:
| Dates | Address | Times | Cost | Where to Stay Nearby | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dec. 8 – Dec. 9, 2025 | 800 East Marion Street, Marengo | Fri: 6–9 p.m.; Sat: 10 a.m.–4 p.m. | Free | Hotels in Marengo | Winter Grace Holiday Market 2025 |
If you want a simple, community-focused holiday tradition, this market is worth a visit.
Christmas Market Closures
Sometimes, Christmas markets just shut down for the season because there aren’t enough vendors. Economic challenges or new tariffs can really throw a wrench in things.
If you’re planning a trip and have your heart set on a particular market, it’s smart to check the latest updates before you pack your bags. Organizers might change or even cancel events without much warning.
If you find out a market isn’t happening, or you notice something off in a listing, go ahead and use the contact page on the event website. When you stay up to date, you dodge wasted trips and help other travelers stay in the loop too.
Christmas Market Closures
Due to econonic conditions and tariffs, some Christmas Markets may cancel their events due to lack of vendors. If you are aware of a closed market,or find errors on a listing or an image, please reach out on our Contact Us page so that we may update this post.