Seasonal & Holidays
When Is Santa Claus Coming To Des Moines?
Find out when and where to see Jolly Old St. Nick this holiday season.

Get ready, because Santa Claus is coming to Des Moines! This holiday season, the man in red is spreading holiday joy all over town. So get those wishlists ready, be on your best behavior (Santa knows if you've been bad or good!) and mark your calendar. Here's when and where you can catch Santa in the Des Moines area this year!
Please note: Event dates are subject to change or cancellation. We recommend calling ahead to confirm and making reservations when possible.
Mayor's Tree Lighting
When: Dec. 1
Where: Clive Public Library and City Hall Parking Lot, 1900 NW 114th Street, Clive, IA 50325
What: Illuminate your holiday spirit at the Mayor's Tree Lighting, a festive celebration of holiday lights and joy taking place in nearby Clive. Engage in kid-friendly activities and witness the professional lighting of the city's Christmas tree. Don't miss the special guest appearance straight from the North Pole, adding a touch of magic to this enchanting evening. Click here for more info.
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Skate With Santa
When: Dec. 2
Where: MidAmerican Energy Company RecPlex, 6500 Grand Ave, West Des Moines, IA 50266
What: Experience the joy of winter and the festive spirit with Skate with Santa at the MidAmerican Energy Company RecPlex. Glide across the ice with Santa Claus himself, creating unforgettable holiday memories for the whole family. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture joyful moments and create lasting memories with Santa on ice. Click here for more info.
Santa Photos at Valley West Mall
When: Now through Dec. 24 (see calendar for times)
Where: Valley West Mall, 1551 Valley West Drive, West Des Moines, IA 50266
What: Seize the magic of the holiday season with Santa Photos at Valley West Mall. Now through Christmas Eve, join Santa in capturing cherished holiday memories, perfect for families and children eager to meet the jolly man from the North Pole. Walk-ins are welcome, though reservations are recommended to secure your memorable photo opportunity with Santa, professionally provided by Cherry Hill Programs. Click here for more info.
Find out what's happening in Des Moinesfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Santa's Wonderland at Bass Pro Shops
When: Now through Dec. 24
Where: 1000 Bass Pro Dr. NW, Altoona, IA 50009
What: Dive into the enchanting Santa's Wonderland at Bass Pro Shops in nearby Altoona, where the magic of Christmas comes alive. Capture a special moment with a free 4x6 photo with Santa and a shareable video to cherish forever. Families can also enjoy free giveaways and activities like mailing letters to Santa and exploring the captivating aquariums and wildlife displays. Reservations are recommended. Click here for more info.
Happy holidays, Des Moines! Wishing you a joyful season filled with warmth and happiness.
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