Illustration of two knitted figures sharing a candle on a small table beside a snowman in a snowy holiday market (The Peppermint Trail)
Christmas Markets

The Peppermint Trail

Visitors explore holiday shopping and dining specials across local businesses, restaurants, bars, and galleries. The districts feature festive activities including pop-up vendor markets, seasonal treats and cocktails, art exhibits, and holiday entertainment. Attendees can also hop on a free dedicated holiday trolley connecting stops along the route.

Sat, Dec 12, 2026 All ages

Plan Your Visit

Hours

The Avenues of Ingersoll & Grand: all day and night; Roosevelt Cultural District: all day. The page gives no overall opening or closing time for The Peppermint Trail.

Neighborhood

The Avenues of Ingersoll & Grand, Roosevelt Cultural District

Food & Drink

Participating businesses offer holiday food and drink specials across the districts; specific 2026 offerings are still to be announced.

Accessibility

Ingersoll Avenue features wide sidewalks, curb extensions, and pedestrian-friendly signals.

Location

The Avenues of Ingersoll & Grand and Roosevelt Cultural District · Des Moines, IA Get Directions

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 ⚪ ⚪ (3/5)

Best For

Holiday shoppers and local explorers

Vibe

Festive and exploratory

Energy Level

Moderate

Photo Friendly

Moderate

Weather Sensitivity

Moderate

Tips & Advice

  • Ride the free Bee-Merry-Line between designated parking-lot stops along Ingersoll Avenue and Shops at Roosevelt Plaza to travel between districts.
  • Use the 280+ free on-street parallel parking spots along Ingersoll Avenue, and observe the two-hour limit from 9 AM to 4 PM.
  • Pick up a printed trail map at select stops on event day to find participating businesses across the route.
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes for exploring businesses across both districts; use the trolley to reduce walking between stops.

Links & Contact

Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their website.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there transportation available between stops?

Yes, the free Bee-Merry-Line holiday trolley runs between designated parking lot stops along Ingersoll Avenue and the Shops at Roosevelt Plaza.

Where can visitors find a map of participating businesses?

Printed maps are distributed at select stops on the day of the event, and a digital version can be downloaded online.

What kinds of festivities and specials can visitors expect?

Participating spots offer seasonal food and drink specials, pop-up markets, crafts, discounts, and festive holiday entertainment.

Browse Christmas in Des Moines

Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.

Contributors & Updates

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