The holiday season is upon us, and Iowa is buzzing with festive events and activities that are sure to get you in the spirit! At American State Bank, we understand that the holiday season can be a financially stressful time, which is why we're highlighting some budget-friendly holiday events and activities in Iowa that won't break the bank.
1. Festival of Lights in Winterset
Kick off the holiday season in Winterset with the Winterset Festival of Lights on November 29. At 5:00 p.m., your whole family can enjoy food, live and lighted window displays, free horse-drawn carriage rides, extended shopping hours, roaming carolers, and interactions with Santa! The lighted parade starts around 7:15 p.m.
2. Holiday Magic at the Iowa State Capitol
Take a stroll through the beautifully decorated Iowa State Capitol building in Des Moines, featuring a stunning Christmas tree and festive decorations. Admission is free.
3. A Christmas Carol at The Paramount Theatre
Catch a performance of Charles Dickens' classic tale, A Christmas Carol, at the Paramount Theatre in Cedar Rapids on December 1. Tickets start at just $25. Catch the show at the Stoner Theater in Des Moines from December 13-22, 2024.
4. Prelude to Christmas at the Amana Colonies
At the Prelude to Christmas, shop for handcrafted goods, enjoy special promotions, tastings, and demonstrations, and participate in unique activities like the annual cookie walk and authentic German Christmas traditions. Highlights include the Tannenbaum Forest, visits with Santa, and the Christmas tree lighting! This event takes place from December 6th to December 8th—keep an eye out for more details!
5. Christmas in the Park in Osceola
Enjoy a festive and fun day in Osceola! Attendance is free – so enjoy lighted window displays, sweet treats, festive activities for the whole family, caroling and more. Stay tuned to the Osceola Chamber Main Street’s Facebook page for additional details.
6. Winterfest Celebration in Council Bluffs
Bring your family to Council Bluff’s Winterfest Celebration and enjoy a holiday lighting ceremony, Santa’s workshop, snap some cute memories at the photo booth, or view an outdoor holiday movie. Other activities include face painting, balloon art, live reindeer (awesome!) carolers, cocoa and more!
7. See The Nutcracker Performed by the Minnesota Ballet in Cedar Falls
Lose yourself in this tale of adventure, fantasy and dance—a family Christmas classic! More than 100 dancers from across Northeast Iowa perform alongside the professional dancers of the Minnesota Ballet bringing the magical story of The Nutcracker to life. Attend the ballet at the Gallagher Bluedorn Performing Arts Center in Cedar Falls on Friday, November 22 at 7:00 p.m., Saturday, November 23 at 2:00 p.m., and Sunday, November 24 at 2:00 p.m. Tickets start at $23 for adults, $19 for youth and $1 for kids.
8. Experience a Norwegian Christmas in Decorah
Kick off your holiday season the Norwegian way at the annual Norwegian Christmas Celebration at Vesterheim in Decorah. Check out Norwegian holiday traditions like juletrefest (Norwegian Christmas tree party of singing around a decorated tree), live music, folk art demonstrators, and costumed folk who roam the museum complex scaring away evil spirits! All outdoor activities are free and admission to the museum’s Main Building is free for children!
9. Christkindlmarket in Des Moines
Learn about European culture at Des Moines’ German-inspired Christmas market which will expose you to European-style foods (bratwurst, candied nuts, and more), products (old-world, artisanal products from various European cultures) and activities (KinderKorner where kids can hear stories and sing songs, as well as other entertainment for the whole family). Best part? The event is FREE to attend.
Make the Most of Your Holiday Budget with American State Bank
At American State Bank, we're committed to helping you make the most of your holiday budget. Consider using our:
- Credit Cards: Earn rewards and enjoy competitive rates with our credit card options.
- Savings Accounts: Set aside funds for holiday expenses by opening up a Christmas Club Savings Account—an account that helps you save for purchasing holiday gifts throughout the entire year. There’s no minimum balance needed to open it.
By using our credit cards and savings accounts responsibly, you can enjoy the holiday season without breaking the bank.
Tips for a Budget-Friendly Holiday Season
- Set a budget and stick to it
- Plan ahead and make a list of gifts and expenses
- Consider making homemade gifts or decorations
- Take advantage of free or low-cost holiday events and activities
- Use cashback and rewards credit cards for holiday purchases
At American State Bank, we're dedicated to helping you achieve your financial goals and make the most of the holiday season. Contact us today to learn more about our credit card and savings account options.
