Pella Holiday Guide

Celebrate the Holidays in Pella

Come to Pella for a nostalgic Noel, where you’ll find unique local holiday shopping, seasonal food and drink and magic-filled memories waiting to be made.

• What To Do: Kickstart the festivities on Monday, Nov. 25, 2024, with Pella’s annual Tree Lighting at Tulip Toren; be sure to enjoy extended shopping hours and discounted Pella Bucks in conjunction with this event, too! Get whisked away on a whimsical horse-drawn carriage through the heart of downtown Pella, and take advantage of the hot cocoa bar before or after your ride just outside the Central Park Information Windmill. Enjoy jingles, treats, giveaways and holiday cheer at the Pella Area Community & Economic Alliance’s annual Open House and blood drive on Tuesday, Dec. 10, 2024.
• Where to Shop: Gather gifts from stores including Pella’s Books, emBellish, Pella Paperie and Simple Treasures — to namedrop just a few! Stock up for your holiday meals at local spots like Pella Nursey Co. for pies, Jaarsma’s or Vander Ploeg bakeries for breads and pastries, and both In’t Veld’s Meat Market and the Ulrich Meat Market for your main dish. There are tons of places to shop in Pella! Browse the full list of PACE Alliance business members for more ideas.
• Special Holiday Moments: Experience a winter wonderland at Kerstmarkt: Pella’s Dutch Christmas Market from Dec. 5-7, 2024, including music, artisans, delicious food vendors and Pella’s charming downtown area. The Christmas Tour of Homes will take place over the same dates. Other events to look for include the Pella Opera House Festival of Trees, Sinterklass’ Arrival Celebration, several holiday concert opportunities at Central College, Pella Corporation Presents: Jordan Smith Christmas and many, many more happenings over the holidays!

Celebrate the Holidays, Support Local in Greater Des Moines!

Make this holiday season unforgettable by shopping local. Let DSM Local be your guide to finding unique gifts, holiday cheer, and cozy spots around Pella. Explore nearby places like Knoxville and Newton, too — and experience the magic of the season throughout DSM.