5 Festive Events Around DSM: Nov. 21-27
The countdown to Thanksgiving is on, and the Greater Des Moines (DSM) region is turning up the holiday charm. This week is packed with free and festive happenings that bring out the magic of the season. Think lighted parades, carriage rides, tree lightings and cozy hometown celebrations from Pella to Indianola and Waukee. Whether you’re sipping cocoa under the lights, strolling through decked-out downtowns or catching your breath after a fireball-lit tree lighting, you’ll find festive fun popping up all week long to keep your calendar merry and bright. It’s the perfect way to get into the holiday spirit, support local communities and make some new memories along the way. Read on for five can’t-miss events happening around the region from Nov. 21-27.
Jordan Creek Town Center Holiday Tree Lighting
Friday, Nov. 21, 2025 | Jordan Creek Town Center Amphitheater, West Des Moines
Kick off the season with one of the most magical nights of the year at Jordan Creek Town Center. Starting at 6 p.m., enjoy live music from local favorite Gimikk, then watch as Santa hurls a fireball across the lake to light up the giant blue spruce — followed by a fireworks finale over the water. It’s bold, bright and full of holiday cheer. This is one of those traditions that gets better every year, so grab a blanket and your people, and head to the amphitheater for music, lights and that unmistakable first-snow kind of joy.
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Indianola Main Street Home for the Holidays & Lighted Parade
Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025 | Downtown Main Street, Indianola
Indianola knows how to do the holidays right. Head downtown as the square transforms into a winter wonderland, complete with twinkling lights, holiday treats and festive vendor stalls offering everything from crafts to cocoa. Families can hop on a trackless train or cozy up for a horse-drawn carriage ride while meeting cheerful characters and snapping pics. Carolers fill the air with music, and the community tree lighting at the courthouse brings that storybook holiday moment to life. The night wraps with a gorgeous lighted parade featuring dazzling floats and hometown spirit. This is a true holiday kickoff, and it’s one you don’t want to miss.
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Festival of Trees
Saturday, Nov. 22 – Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025 | Pella Opera House, Pella
Step into a holiday dreamscape at the Pella Opera House’s annual Festival of Trees. This free event turns the Great Hall into a twinkling display of beautifully decorated trees, wreaths and holiday scenes, complete with a scavenger hunt for kids and plenty of photo ops. Check out the boutique filled with holiday goodies and bid on silent auction items, with proceeds supporting youth programs. With extended hours some evenings and warm drinks available, it’s the perfect festive stop whether you’re out shopping or looking for a cozy afternoon outing.
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Also happening in DSM: The Annual Tree Lighting at the Outlets of Des Moines in Altoona brings seasonal sparkle, Santa sightings and more family fun on Saturday, Nov. 22.
Free Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides
Monday, Nov. 24, 2025 | Downtown, Pella
Step into a Hallmark-worthy holiday moment with a free horse-drawn carriage ride through Downtown Pella during their annual Tree Lighting Celebration. Thanks to Element Siding & Windows, this festive ride is totally free and totally magical on Monday, Nov. 24. Whether you’re making a family memory or just soaking in the glow of Pella Main Street, it’s a heartwarming way to kick off the season. Rides are first come, first served, and pick up is at the Windmill corner at Franklin and Main. Just follow the sound of holiday cheer — it’ll lead you right to the fun.
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A Night Under the Lights: Lighted Parade
Wednesday, Nov. 26, 2025 | Centennial Park, Waukee
Looking for a midweek dose of holiday cheer? Waukee’s got you covered with A Night Under the Lights, complete with food trucks, vendors, live music and one sparkling light parade. The fun starts at 4 p.m. and builds to the big parade at 6 p.m., so come early to grab a warm drink and check out the scene. Bring a canned good to donate, then settle in for an evening of community vibes and twinkle-lit magic. It’s the kind of small-town energy that makes the holidays feel extra special.
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Looking for more festive fun in Waukee? Don’t miss the Turkey Trot Waukee — a holiday-themed run happening on Thursday, Nov. 27, just in time to get those steps in before the big feast.
November in DSM is packed with free fun that won’t cost a thing, from live music to holiday festivals.
For additional events and seasonal festivities coming up in Greater Des Moines (DSM), visit the calendar of events. You can also find live music happening each week thanks to the “Live Music This Week in DSM” blog series. Plus, follow @DSMpartnership on Instagram for even more things-you-just-can’t-miss happening around DSM.