West Des Moines Holiday Guide

Celebrate the Holidays in West Des Moines

From bustling holiday markets to tree-lighting ceremonies, West Des Moines offers vibrant seasonal celebrations and one-of-a-kind holiday experiences that capture the magic of the season.

• What To Do: Celebrate in style at Winter’s Eve on Monday, Dec. 2, 2024, at the Jamie Hurd Amphitheater in West Des Moines, where the mayor’s holiday tree lighting ceremony fills the evening with cheer. Immerse yourself in holiday joy at Jingle in the Junction taking place over four Thursday nights in the Historic Valley Junction! Shops and restaurants throughout the district offer holiday sales, specials, mini-events and extended hours. Don’t miss a free ride on the horse-drawn trolley to enjoy the festive lights and sights. West Des Moines is packed with holiday experiences like Breakfast with Santa at Putts & Pins, Fi & Friends’ Autism-Friendly Santa at The Venue, Holiday Whobilation at Walnut Creek YMCA, Santa’s arrival at Jordan Creek Town Center and lots more!
• Where to Shop: Discover unique gifts and holiday décor at local favorites in West Des Moines, including Candle Bar DSM, MoMere and Harlow and James in Valley Junction. Make gift-giving easy with curated gift boxes from Happy DSM for those special people on your list. For larger shopping outings, visit Jordan Creek Town Center and Valley West Mall, where you’ll find a mix of popular retailers, unique gift shops and seasonal décor to get you in the holiday spirit. The Chamber makes it even more festive with the West Des Moines Candy Cane Trail. Register online, visit participating businesses and earn points for amazing prizes as you shop local this holiday season. For locally crafted gifts for your loved ones, check out the annual Local Holiday Maker’s Market at West Des Moines’s Valley Community Center on Saturday, Dec. 7, 2024, where more than 80 local vendors will showcase their creations.
• Special Holiday Moments: Immerse yourself in the sounds of the season at Deck the Halls with the Central Iowa Wind Ensemble, performing at the Staplin Performing Arts Center on Sunday, Dec. 15, 2024. If holiday movies are more your thing, head to Cinemark Century Jordan Creek to enjoy classics like “The Polar Express”, “Love Actually”, “A Christmas Story”, “Dr. Seuss' The Grinch” and “It's a Wonderful Life” — perfect for cozying up with popcorn and holiday cheer.

     

Celebrate Throughout Greater Des Moines

Now is the time to shop, celebrate and support local. Check out all things DSM Local for the holidays and seize the season in places near West Des Moines, like Waukee, Clive and Urbandale.