Finish 2025 Strong with These 5 Can’t-Miss DSM Events: Dec. 26 - Jan. 1

As the holiday season winds down and a brand-new year approaches, the Greater Des Moines (DSM) region is still buzzing with festive fun and family-friendly adventures. Whether you’re looking for one last hurrah with twinkling lights, an immersive indoor wonderland or a playful way to ring in 2026 without staying up past midnight, you’ll find it here. This week’s lineup brings plenty of magic, from epic light shows and snowball fights to dazzling New Year’s countdowns and nostalgic holiday charm. Cozy up with cocoa, rally your crew and check out five can’t-miss things to do across DSM from Dec. 26 to Jan. 1!

Holiday Hullaballoo

Now – Sunday, Dec. 28, 2025 | Southridge Event Center, Des Moines
This isn’t your average holiday event, it’s a full-on festive playground! Holiday Hullabaloo has everything from sock skating and LEGO Toyland to cookie decorating with Mrs. Claus herself. You’ll meet magical characters like Suzy Snowflake and Jack Frost, have a (friendly) snowball fight indoors and even sneak a visit to Santa’s Workshop. Don’t forget to collect character cards as keepsakes! Whether you’re crafting ornaments, sipping cocoa or posing with Santa in his parlor, the whole thing feels like stepping into a snow globe — minus the cold. Bonus: it’s perfect for all ages, making it a magical stop before the year ends.
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Uptown Wonderlights

Now – Wednesday, Dec. 31, 2025 | Uptown Ankeny, Ankeny
Uptown Ankeny is aglow with more than 50 animated light displays, and you’ve still got time to check them out before the season ends! Cruise, stroll or bike through the six-block stretch of SW 3rd Street and the Ankeny Market & Pavilion to soak in the shimmering magic. It’s totally free and makes a great after-dinner detour or low-key New Year’s week outing with visiting family. Whether you’re bundled up in the car or walking through with a thermos of cocoa, Uptown Wonderlights is a sweet and simple way to keep the holiday spirit shining.
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Santa’s Rock N Lights

Now – Wednesday, Dec. 31, 2025 | Living History Farms, Urbandale
Jump in the car, queue up your holiday playlist and roll through one of the most dazzling displays in the metro. Santa’s Rock N Lights at Living History Farms is a mile-long drive-thru experience synced to music, featuring color-changing tunnels, massive light sculptures and crowd-favorite displays that’ll have everyone from toddlers to teens wide-eyed. It’s cozy, colorful and a great way to enjoy the magic without leaving your vehicle. Pro tip: Snag your tickets early online — this one’s popular for a reason.
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Miracle on 86th Street

Now – Tuesday, Jan. 6, 2026 | Charles Gabus Memorial Tree Park, Urbandale
If you’re looking to squeeze in one more holiday lights adventure, Miracle on 86th Street is a must. This magical park is decked out with 100,000+ lights, a giant gingerbread house, a whimsical custom train, an ice-skating rink and festive displays around every corner. It’s especially dreamy after 5 p.m., when the park comes alive with twinkling colors and holiday cheer. Whether you’re skating, snapping pics or simply wandering through the lights with a warm drink in hand, this local gem is a perfect way to wrap up the holiday season.
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New Year’s Eve Family Bowling Party: Countdown to Noon Years

Wednesday, Dec. 31, 2025 | Warrior Lanes, Waukee
Who says you need to stay up ‘til midnight to ring in the new year? Warrior Lanes is hosting its 12th annual “Countdown to Noon Years” family glow bowling bash — complete with unlimited bowling, pizza, soda, party favors and a celebratory balloon drop right at noon! It’s an alcohol-free event that lets the kids in on the fun (and gives grownups an excuse to party before bedtime). Lanes fill up fast, so grab your spot early and close out 2025 with glowing lanes, loud laughs and good vibes all around.
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December in DSM is packed with holiday cheer, and plenty of it is free! Explore more ways to celebrate the season without emptying your wallet.

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.