Hunt for Holiday Cheer: Find Exclusive Ornaments This December

Handmade ornaments by commissioned artists will be hidden daily in trees and other spots near retailers, restaurants and attractions across the region. Each ornament is a unique, artist-designed creation, ready and waiting to be found and kept for free by lucky participants. As an added surprise, one ornament at each location will include a gift card to a nearby business, encouraging shoppers to explore and support local this holiday season. 

“This activation combines art, adventure and holiday cheer in a way that only Greater Des Moines can,” said Molly Atkins, Events Specialist at The Partnership. “Each ornament tells a story, and each discovery helps shine a spotlight on our region’s creative talent and thriving local businesses.” 

Locations and artists for the festive scavenger hunt include: 

“This event is a creative way to bring people together during the holidays while supporting local businesses and artists,” said Kathryn Kunert, Vice President – Economic Connections and Integration at MidAmerican Energy Company. “We’re proud to help spark a little joy across the region and encourage everyone to explore their communities this season.” 

Artists will place ornaments in easily accessible spots and will post daily clues about their locations using #DSMUSA, #downtownDSM and #DSMlocal. Holiday scavenger hunters can find additional clues and see photos of the handmade ornaments by following @DSMpartnership and @downtownDSMUSA on Facebook and Instagram. 

Those who find an ornament are encouraged to share a photo of themselves with their discovery on social media and then take their ornament home to enjoy. To help spread the fun, participants are asked to limit themselves to one ornament per family. 

“At Principal® Foundation, we believe in building stronger communities through connection and shared experiences,” said Jo Christine Miles, director, Principal® Foundation, and Community Relations. “Hide and Seek Ornaments You Keep is more than a holiday tradition—it’s an opportunity to celebrate creativity, support local businesses and bring joy to people across Greater Des Moines.” 

This activation is produced by The Partnership and sponsored by BRAVO Greater Des Moines, MidAmerican Energy Foundation, Prairie Meadows and Principal® Foundation.

About the Greater Des Moines Partnership 
The Greater Des Moines Partnership is the largest regional business, economic development and talent development organization in Iowa and the second-largest regional chamber of commerce in the country, serving 12 counties in Greater Des Moines: Adair, Clarke, Dallas, Guthrie, Jasper, Madison, Mahaska, Marion, Marshall, Polk, Poweshiek and Warren. Together with more than 400 Investors and an Affiliate Chamber of Commerce network of more than 7,200 Regional Business Members, The Partnership helps businesses grow and advances quality of life in Greater Des Moines with one voice, one mission and as one region, contributing to a vibrant regional economy. Learn more at DSMpartnership.com. 

About Downtown DSM, Inc.  
Downtown DSM, Inc. is part of the Greater Des Moines Partnership and is dedicated to ensuring the continued growth of Downtown Des Moines (DSM). A strong region needs a strong Downtown. Downtown DSM, Inc. leads efforts to drive development, placemaking and events in Downtown DSM. It promotes Downtown through integration of retail, restaurants, businesses, housing, events and placemaking. The Downtown Events Group enhances the vibrancy of Downtown DSM through the creation, elevation and activation of arts, culture and humanities events and community placemaking. Learn more at downtowndsmusa.com.