Discover One-of-a-Kind Gifts from Local Businesses at the Des Moines Holiday Boutique

For nearly a decade, the Des Moines Holiday Boutique has been the go-to place to find unique holiday gifts for family and friends. With more than 200 vendors, many from around Iowa, it is also a great place to shop local. When you purchase from local vendors, you're supporting families, fueling dreams and strengthening the economic fabric of Greater Des Moines (DSM) and the state.

The show takes place at the EMC Expo Center Nov. 6-8, 2026. Here’s a look at what you can expect this year.

New at the Show

To complement the vendor shopping experience, nonprofit partner DMARC is offering a free package check station all weekend long. Shoppers can drop off their purchases to free up their hands to continue exploring the show. DMARC will accept free-will donations at the station, directly supporting their mission to combat food insecurity across Central Iowa.

Friday afternoon, Hallmark holiday movie fans will get the chance to hear from and meet one of the channel’s rising stars. Tyler Hynes is coming to the show Nov. 6 and will be hosting a Q&A with Iowa Live’s Lou Sipolt at 1:30 p.m. Immediately afterward, fans will get the opportunity to meet Hynes and snag autographs and photos.

And on Sunday, area kids will be setting up shop at the Des Moines Holiday Boutique. The Kids Market teaches kids 5 to 17 years old how to be an entrepreneur and provides opportunities to test their new skills in the real world. Swing by the show from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 8, 2026 to support this amazing program and grab unique, kid-made gifts and treats.

Local Vendor Spotlight

Never Board Games — Des Moines

Founded by local Beaverdale resident Tim Ferry, Never Board Games originally launched as a game design studio following the successful release of their flagship naval strategy game, Old Salt. Expanding on that foundation, Ferry developed a kids' game design curriculum used in after-school clubs and libraries across Iowa, encouraging families to step away from screens and become active creators. Today, Never Board Games offers both Old Salt and unique board game design kits that teach the fundamentals of game design and guide aspiring makers in bringing their own ideas to life. At the boutique, shoppers can purchase signed copies of Old Salt directly from Ferry and pick up exclusive game design kits not available in traditional retail stores. These screen-free, highly creative gifts are great for those seeking hands-on family activities this holiday season.

“Christmas shopping doesn't have to be typing and clicking your purchases,” says Ferry. “It can be side by side with your neighbors who have made some incredible things that you can't find anywhere else.”

Styled by JJ Boutique — Johnston

The Des Moines Holiday Boutique is the best place to find stylish clothes for the holidays or the winter season! Styled by JJ is owned and operated by Julia Bradshaw and provides inclusive-sized women’s clothing from XS to 3X, as well as accessories and gifts. Her selection is carefully curated for the modern woman who wants to make a statement wherever she goes. Look out for her exclusive “Santa Squad” apparel and totes, which are designed by Bradshaw and printed locally. At her booth, Bradshaw showcases key winter style trends, from oversized sweaters and plaid skirts to faux fur jackets, while demonstrating the power of supporting regional women-owned businesses.

“If you're looking for a fun way to kick off the holiday season, grab your friends and join us at the Des Moines Holiday Boutique where you will find unique, custom and carefully curated styles and gifts,” says Bradshaw. “There's no better way to support small [businesses] than this event. It's an upbeat shopping experience with all the holiday vibes and giveaways!”

Iowa Lavender — Ames

Located just outside of cyclone country, Jessica Mortvedt and her family raise hundreds of lavender plants to create handcrafted lavender products. Their lavender salve is their bestseller. Like lotion, but better — a small bit goes a long way. It’s a great option to provide calming relief to hands and feet throughout the day or at bedtime. Mortvedt says it also works great to soothe bug bites and bee stings, as well as minor burns, cuts or scrapes. For the holidays, they have several gift sets that are perfect for loved ones with dry skin, sleep issues, pain or headaches.

“When you shop at the Des Moines Holiday Boutique, you can feel good that the products you are purchasing are going to be loved by the people you give them to,” says Mortvedt. “You're also investing in small businesses and the dreams of local entrepreneurs.”

Lubben Vineyards & Wines - Anamosa

Part of the beloved Iowa Wine Village at the Des Moines Holiday Boutique, Lubben Vineyards and Wines will be showcasing and sampling their signature dry wine varieties. The Anamosa winery is home of the 2026 Iowa Wine Growers Association’s Winemaker of the Year. While a bottle or two of wine can be a fantastic gift, the Lubbens say many people are hoping to unwrap an experience this holiday season. If that sounds like someone on your list, they provide gift cards to their tasting room in Anamosa where visitors can experience the vineyard, learn how to harvest grapes or just enjoy music at the venue.

“This is such a fun event to get you excited for the Christmas season! It’s a chance to get out, enjoy the holiday atmosphere and discover so many different businesses and products all in one place,” says Judy Lubben. “You’ll find small local businesses, some larger ones and plenty of things you may not come across in your everyday shopping. Come make a day of it, discover something new, find some great gifts and support businesses that are excited to be part of your holiday season.”

Show Information

The Des Moines Holiday Boutique runs Nov. 6-8 at the EMC Expo Center. Adult admission (13+) is $14 for single-day tickets at the door or $12 online when purchased before the show. Children 12 and under enter free. Teachers and school staff also receive free admission with valid ID on Sunday, Nov. 8.

Click here for more information on admissions, directions and parking.

Whether you’re looking to get a head start on your holiday shopping, discover unique handcrafted products, or simply enjoy a fun-filled day out with friends and family, the Des Moines Holiday Boutique offers something special for everyone. Don’t miss your chance to experience this festive seasonal tradition while supporting incredible local entrepreneurs.

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