Holiday Promenade - Tree Lighting Ceremony
2026 dates not announced yet. Details are from 2025.
Kick off the holiday season at the annual Tree Lighting Ceremony in Des Moines' Historic East Village. Gather at Brenton Skating Plaza for an evening of festive cheer, including live music and a special performance of 'Dr. Seuss’ The Grinch Stole Christmas – The Musical'. Shops and restaurants stay open late, offering a perfect opportunity to start holiday shopping. Enjoy free trolley rides and complimentary hot cocoa.
Family-friendly FREE
See more Christmas lights near Des Moines
Plan Your Visit
Last year
Neighborhood
East Village
Food & Drink
Festive treats available at shops and restaurants; free hot cocoa provided.
Parking
Refer to the 'Get Here + Parking' page for travel and parking information.
Location
Tips & Advice
- Arrive early to secure a good spot for the 6:00 PM tree lighting ceremony, as crowds are expected.
- Utilize the free trolley rides to easily hop between shops and restaurants, making the most of your evening.
- Check the event schedule for other Holiday Promenade events happening on subsequent Fridays in November and December.
- Dress in layers, as the event is outdoors and November evenings can be chilly in Des Moines.
- Bring a reusable mug if you plan to enjoy the free hot cocoa, to help reduce waste.
Special Events & Promotions
- Free trolley rides
- Free hot cocoa from Iowa State Bank
- Extended shopping hours
- Special feature of 'Dr. Seuss’ The Grinch Stole Christmas – The Musical'
Links & Contact
Run by Historic East Village Association
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 contact page.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main attraction of the Holiday Promenade?
The main attraction is the annual Tree Lighting Ceremony at Brenton Skating Plaza, which officially kicks off the holiday season.
Are there activities for children?
Yes, the event is family-friendly and includes live holiday music, a special performance of 'Dr. Seuss’ The Grinch Stole Christmas – The Musical', and opportunities to explore local shops.
What are the operating hours for shops and restaurants?
Shops and restaurants will be open late during the event, offering festive treats and a great chance to start your holiday shopping.
Is there parking available?
Information regarding travel and parking can be found on the 'Get Here + Parking' page of their website.
What other events are part of the Holiday Promenade?
The Holiday Promenade features five festive Fridays, including a Window Display Contest, Vino at the Promenade, an Ugly Sweater Contest, and a Drone Show with Santa Claus.
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.