Get excited, Burlington! Our holiday guide is here to show you all the top festive happenings. From Burlington natives to wandering souls, our guide showcases both traditional and unique holiday experiences.
One of the highlights this season is the Amana Colonies German Christmas Market, where craftsmanship and festive cheer come together in charming surroundings, offering seasonal treats and handmade gifts. The Festival of Trees and Lights dazzles with beautifully decorated holiday trees and enchanting displays, creating a warm atmosphere perfect for families and friends. And the Des Moines Christkindlmarket is something you definitely don't want to miss, as it brings the spirit of a traditional German Christmas market right to our community. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
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Top Holiday Events In and Around Burlington
- Des Moines Christkindlmarket (Des Moines)
- Festival of Trees and Lights (Cedar Rapids)
- Amana Colonies German Christmas Market (Amana)
- Burlington Holiday Open House
- Newton Small Business Saturday (Newton)
- Altoona Holiday Market (Altoona)
- West Burlington Holiday Market (West Burlington)
See these and even more events listed below!
Burlington Holiday Markets and Shopping
Des Moines Christkindlmarket
What to Expect:
Traditional European holiday market with hand-crafted goods and cultural performances.
Description:
Christkindlmarket Des Moines is a German-inspired Christmas market at Principal Park, featuring regional vendors selling hand-crafted products, European foods, and cultural activities. Enjoy lively performances, Glühwein, and European beer in a festive environment.
Where: Des Moines | More Info: Des Moines Christkindlmarket
Amana Colonies German Christmas Market
What to Expect:
Unique blend of traditional German Christmas traditions and local community activities.
Description:
The Amana Colonies German Christmas Market features beautifully decorated Christmas trees, handcrafted goods, and authentic German traditions. Visitors can explore shops filled with unique items, enjoy special promotions and tastings, and participate in activities like the annual cookie walk and the Amana Pickle Hunt. The event celebrates community spirit and giving, hosting live music, crafts, and seasonal treats.
Where: Amana | More Info: Amana Colonies German Christmas Market
Burlington Holiday Open House
What to Expect:
Holiday gift shopping with local businesses.
Description:
Downtown Burlington's Holiday Open House is a festive event where you can get a head start on holiday gift buying by registering at participating businesses. Enjoy a casual, spontaneous atmosphere as you explore local retailers and eateries.
Where: Burlington | More Info: Burlington Holiday Open House
Newton Small Business Saturday
What to Expect:
Community-driven shopping event supporting local entrepreneurs.
Description:
Celebrate Small Business Saturday in Newton by exploring local businesses and supporting the community of entrepreneurs. Get your Shop Small bags from Newton Main Street starting at 10 AM.
Where: Newton | More Info: Newton Small Business Saturday
Altoona Holiday Market
What to Expect:
Unique, hand-crafted holiday gifts and family-friendly atmosphere.
Description:
The Altoona Holiday Market is an outdoor German-style holiday market featuring vendor shopping, delicious food options, drinks, and live music. This family-friendly event offers unique, hand-crafted items perfect for holiday gifts.
Where: Altoona | More Info: Altoona Holiday Market
West Burlington Holiday Market
What to Expect:
Local vendors selling handmade crafts and seasonal items.
Description:
The West Burlington Holiday Market offers a variety of local vendors selling handmade crafts, seasonal items, and holiday gifts, creating a vibrant atmosphere perfect for finding unique presents.
Where: West Burlington | More Info: West Burlington Holiday Market
Burlington Holiday Shows and Entertainment
Festival of Trees and Lights
What to Expect:
Live performances and craft activities amidst decorated holiday trees.
Description:
The Cedar Rapids Festival of Trees is a two-day holiday event featuring beautifully decorated trees, live performers, craft-based activities, and area holiday vendors. Attendees can enjoy a variety of festive activities and entertainment while supporting local nonprofits.