Looking for Christmas lights, holiday shopping, or a festive night out? Ankeny and the Des Moines metro have plenty of ways to fill your calendar this season.
Whether you want a simple evening close to home or a weekend outing with family and friends, here are several 2026 holiday events to keep on your list.
Event information was checked in October 2026. Visit the linked event websites before heading out for current hours, tickets, and weather updates.
Uptown Wonderlights | Ankeny
When: November 13–December 31, 2026
Where: Uptown Ankeny, including SW 3rd Street and Ankeny Market & Pavilion
Admission: Free
If you’re looking for a holiday outing without a lot of planning, start with Uptown Wonderlights.
The display features more than 50 animated light displays throughout Uptown Ankeny. You can enjoy the lights on foot, by bicycle, or from your vehicle after sunset.
Make an evening of it with dinner nearby, or stop for a short walk through the lights when you need a break from the holiday rush. It’s an easy option for visitors, families, or anyone looking for something festive close to home.
View Uptown Wonderlights details
Santa’s North Pole Village Craft Sale | Ankeny
When: Saturday, November 7, 2026, from 9 a.m.–3 p.m.
Where: Prairie Trail Sports Complex, 2250 SW Vintage Parkway
Admission: $8 presale through October 31; $10 afterward. Children 12 and under are free.
Start your holiday shopping with handmade gifts, seasonal décor, treats, and artisan goods at the Ankeny Art Center’s Santa’s North Pole Village Craft Sale.
The 2026 event brings nearly 200 booths together at Prairie Trail Sports Complex. Festive trolley shuttles are also planned, with free shuttle service from designated parking areas at Cascade Falls Aquatic Center and B&B Theatres.
It’s a good choice if you enjoy finding gifts from makers while supporting local arts programming. The organizer suggests shopping from 1–3 p.m. if you prefer a quieter experience.
View craft sale details and tickets
Des Moines Holiday Boutique | Downtown Des Moines
When: November 6–8, 2026
Where: EMC Expo Center
Admission: Ticketed event
If you like setting aside a day for holiday shopping, add the Des Moines Holiday Boutique to your calendar.
The event offers a place to browse vendors, look for gifts, and get inspiration for the season. It’s an indoor option for a shopping outing with friends or family, especially when November weather makes outdoor plans less appealing.
Check the show website for daily hours, the vendor list, entertainment, and current ticket options before attending.
View Des Moines Holiday Boutique information
Downtown Winter Farmers’ Market | Des Moines
When: November 20–22, 2026
Where: Capital Square, Downtown Des Moines
The Downtown Winter Farmers’ Market returns for its 21st season with three days of local food, gifts, entertainment, and holiday shopping.
If you enjoy browsing the farmers’ market during warmer months, this is an opportunity to carry that tradition into the holiday season. Plan to browse for gifts and seasonal food, then pair your visit with another downtown stop.
Watch the organizer’s website for the 2026 vendor lineup, daily hours, and activities as the event approaches.
View Downtown Winter Farmers’ Market details
Jingle in the Junction | West Des Moines
When: Confirmed 2026 dates include November 19, December 3, and December 10
Where: Historic Valley Junction
For an evening of shopping, dinner, and holiday lights, consider Jingle in the Junction.
Participating Valley Junction businesses extend their hours on event nights, giving visitors more time to shop and explore. The event also features entertainment along 5th Street beneath the neighborhood’s holiday lights.
It’s a nice option for a relaxed evening with friends or a holiday date night. Check the event calendar for hours and the activities scheduled for your chosen date.
View the Valley Junction event calendar
Christkindlmarket Des Moines | Principal Park
When: December 3–6 and December 10–13, 2026
Where: Principal Park, 1 Line Drive, Des Moines
Admission: Free
Christkindlmarket Des Moines brings a German-inspired Christmas market to Principal Park for two weekends in December.
Browse handcrafted gifts, try European-style foods, enjoy live entertainment, and explore children’s activities. Warm mulled wine, known as Glühwein, is also part of the market experience.
Because the market is outdoors, dress for the weather and give yourself time to explore.
2026 hours for both weekends:
Thursdays: 5–9 p.m.
Fridays and Saturdays: 11 a.m.–9 p.m.
Sundays: 11 a.m.–5 p.m.
This is a good pick if you want shopping, food, and entertainment together in one outing.
View Christkindlmarket Des Moines information
A Holiday Lights Option to Watch: Jolly Holiday Lights
Where: Iowa State Fairgrounds, Des Moines
Jolly Holiday Lights offers a drive-through holiday light experience at the Iowa State Fairgrounds.
At the time of this update, the organizer’s homepage lists a November 20–January 3 season, while its contact page still says 2026 dates are coming soon. Confirm the season dates and ticket availability directly with the organizer before making plans.
Check Jolly Holiday Lights dates and tickets
Make Your Holiday Plans Around What You Enjoy
You don’t need to fill every weekend to enjoy the season.
Choose a shopping event to tackle your gift list, save an evening for Christmas lights, or invite friends to meet for dinner before exploring a holiday market.
For something close to home, start with Uptown Wonderlights or Santa’s North Pole Village in Ankeny. For a longer outing, explore the holiday markets and shopping events around Des Moines and West Des Moines.
Enjoy the Holidays Around Ankeny
Community events are one of the best ways to get to know an area, whether you’ve lived here for years or are considering a move.
Thinking about making Ankeny or a surrounding Central Iowa community your home? Contact The Hokel Real Estate Team at Century 21 Signature Real Estate. We’ll help you explore your options and find a home that fits your everyday life.