Madison County Holiday Guide

Celebrate the Holidays in Madison County

Madison County celebrates the holiday season with small-town charm and historic beauty, offering festive events, unique shops and scenic holiday lights.

• What To Do: Experience the magic of the Winterset Festival of Lights on Friday, Nov 29, 2024, in Winterset’s courthouse retail district. Starting at 5 p.m., enjoy food, live and lighted window displays, free horse-drawn carriage rides, extended shopping hours, roaming carolers and visits with Santa – all around the beautifully lit Madison County courthouse. A lighted parade kicks off at 7:15 p.m. On Friday, Dec. 6, 2024, enjoy The Nutcracker by the Winterset Ballet and Dance Studio, a timeless performance perfect for the whole family. Then, explore the Winter Solstice Market on Friday and Saturday, Dec. 13-14, 2024, an indoor holiday market showcasing local creators at both the restored Winterset Livery and the newly renovated Warehouse on 2nd.
• Where to Shop: Madison County is full of unique shopping experiences for everyone on your holiday list. Explore gifts and local treasures at Overstock Oasis, Montross Pharmacy, Madison County Mercantile, Jesse’s Junk, Quest Haven Books & Comics, Pine Creek, Ltd. Gift cards to local dining favorites like Urban on the Square, Beans and Beignets, The Bakery Unlimited, Sports Page Grill and Mi Pueblito Mexican Restaurant also make for great presents. Explore more Madison County shops for even more local finds this season.
• Special Holiday Moments: Don’t miss the Winterset Christmas Tour of Homes on Saturday, Dec. 9 and 14, 2024, featuring beautifully decorated homes that dazzle for the holidays. Tickets are available at Pine Creek, Spoons Full of Sugar, Salon 107, White Cottage Market, Madison County Chamber, Re:Home and Madison County Mercantile around the Winterset square – perfect for soaking up the holiday charm of Madison County!

     

Make it a Local Holiday Season in Greater Des Moines

Now’s the perfect time to shop, celebrate, and support local businesses. See all that DSM Local has to offer and create memories in communities near Madison County, like Waukee, West Des Moines and Norwalk.