Ankeny Christmas Events 2026
Your guide to the best Christmas events in Ankeny and nearby
The Christmas season around Ankeny centers on gatherings, with twinkling light displays lighting up evenings and vibrant markets offering unique finds. Local communities embrace the spirit through tree lightings, festive theatrical performances, and special train rides that capture the wonder of the holidays.
Visitors can anticipate grand light spectacles like the one in Urbandale, enchanting garden displays in Ames, and the classic charm of a train journey to see Santa. The heart of the season often beats strongest with events like the tree lighting in Des Moines or local craft shows.
Browse Christmas Near Ankeny by Category
Christmas Markets
Nearly 200 artisan booths, festive trolley shuttles, and Santa photo ops.
Christmas Lights
Over 50 animated light displays including a 25-foot show tree.
Christmas Shows
Holiday ballet featuring Tchaikovsky's score and the Heartland Youth Choir.
Christmas Parties
Includes admission tickets to Winter Wonderscape.
Unique & Unusual Christmas Events
Drop-in holiday candy cottage workshop for ages three and up.
Editor's Picks
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Santa's North Pole Village Craft Sale
Nearly 200 artisan booths, festive trolley shuttles, and Santa photo ops.
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Uptown Wonderlights
Over 50 animated light displays including a 25-foot show tree.
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Festival of Trees & Lights
· Des Moines
Central Iowa tradition featuring 90 decorated trees benefiting Blank Children's Hospital.
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Santa's Rock n Lights
· Urbandale
Award-winning drive-through Christmas light show
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Jolly Holiday Lights
· Des Moines
Drive-through light show featuring 3 million lights supporting Make-A-Wish Iowa.
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The Nutcracker by Ballet Des Moines
· Des Moines
Holiday ballet featuring Tchaikovsky's score and the Heartland Youth Choir.
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Ankeny Christmas FAQ
What are the biggest annual Christmas events in Ankeny?
The Uptown Wonderlights and the Mayor's Tree Lighting & Fireworks at Town Square Park are among the biggest annual Christmas events in Ankeny, drawing locals and visitors for festive celebrations and light displays.
What holiday traditions are unique to Ankeny?
Ankeny’s Uptown Wonderlights, featuring animated light displays and a large show tree, is a unique tradition that brings the community together each year for a walkable holiday experience in the heart of the city.
Which neighborhoods are best for Christmas lights in Ankeny?
The Uptown Ankeny area around SW 3rd Street is the best-known neighborhood for Christmas lights, with numerous displays and festive decorations. Other residential neighborhoods also offer charming holiday light displays throughout the season.
Where can I find Christmas markets and local makers in Ankeny?
The Ankeny Art Center hosts the Santa's North Pole Village Craft Sale, a key spot for local makers and holiday shopping. Additional markets and vendor fairs are held at community venues and near Ankeny throughout the holiday season.
What are the best free or budget-friendly holiday activities in Ankeny?
Free activities include visiting the Uptown Wonderlights and attending community events like the Mayor's Tree Lighting. Many neighborhood light displays and some holiday markets offer free admission, making them budget-friendly options.
What are good picks for families with kids in Ankeny?
Families will enjoy Uptown Wonderlights for its walkable light displays and festive atmosphere, as well as holiday markets with crafts and Santa visits, such as the Santa's North Pole Village Craft Sale at the Ankeny Art Center.
Today's Trending Event
One of today's most-visited holiday events from across the country.
Astros Light Up the Park
📍 Houston , TX , United States
Astros-themed holiday light displays and stadium tour
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