2026 Downtown Holiday Kid's Market: Nov 3rd - 25th
Children shop for everyone on their holiday list with the guidance of Santa's helpers, who assist them in choosing and wrapping gifts in secret. Parents and guardians fill out a quick form detailing gift recipients and budgets before the shopping begins. While kids complete their shopping experience, adults can grab a coffee or browse downtown shops.
Nov 3 – Nov 25, 2026
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Plan Your Visit
Tickets
The page displays a regular price of $0.00 USD for the product/appointment. Gifts for purchase range from $5-$75.
Parking
The page recommends Dubuque Street Ramp or Tower Place and Parking.
Location
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families with children who want to shop for holiday gifts
Vibe
Festive and thoughtful
Energy Level
Low
Photo Friendly
Moderate
Weather Sensitivity
Low
Tips & Advice
- Book a family shopping appointment, since drop-ins are only possible when space allows or an appointment is a no-show.
- Complete the gift-recipient and budget form so Santa's helpers can guide the children's shopping.
- Select “Store Pickup” at checkout, as the market requests this option.
- Use Dubuque Street Ramp or Tower Place and Parking, the recommended parking options.
- Allow about 40 minutes for shopping and gift wrapping, and use that time to get coffee or browse downtown.
Special Events & Promotions
- Evening shopping appointment slots are available.
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
Who can take part, and can more than one child attend?
Children shop with Santa's helpers, and more than one child may attend per family appointment. A parent, grandparent or guardian completes the shopping form.
Should families book an appointment, or are drop-ins possible?
Families book a shopping appointment. Drop-ins may be available if space allows or if there is a no-show appointment.
What happens during a shopping appointment?
Children choose and wrap gifts in secret with Santa's helpers; each family gets about 40 minutes.
What do parents or guardians need to do before shopping?
Complete a quick form listing the gift recipients and each person's budget. Choose “Store Pickup” at checkout.
Can adults do anything while the children shop?
Parents can get coffee or explore downtown shops while the children shop.
Browse Christmas in Iowa City
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.