As the spooky Halloween season comes to an end, we are quickly reminded of the upcoming holiday festivities for Thanksgiving in Des Moines. Thanksgiving is one of our favorite times of year. We see a lot of guests coming to Iowa from all over the country to celebrate with friends and family. If you’ve never been to the Des Moines area for Thanksgiving, below is a list of the best local events during the holiday season.
Adventureland
November 22nd – January 1st from 5:30 pm – 10:00 pm
Come out and celebrate the holiday lights at Adventureland! Bundle up the family for a 2.5 mile ride through more than 100 magical light displays. The
admission fees for this event go directly to Make-A-Wish® Iowa! $10 per car. You can also get your picture taken with Santa for $10 and enjoy a cookie and cocoa at Santa’s Wish Shop!
Veteran’s Memorial Community Choice Credit Union
November 23rd – 27th. Check hours here!
Festival of Trees & Lights is a five-day event. This event is the main fundraiser for Blank Children’s Hospital. You will see beautifully decorated trees, enjoy entertainment, get to take part in children’s activities, feast on great food, and more!
November 23rd – 27th. Click here for all showtimes!
The Disney cast will be making an appearance at the Iowa Events Center! Do not miss seeing your favorite characters.
November 24th at 9 am
This is the second year for the Des Moines Turkey Trot. During the race, you can experience downtown Des Moines, or show it off to your visiting family and friends.
Runners will start their run near the Des Moines Courthouse. From there both 5K and 5 mile runners will make their way across the Des Moines River and through the center of the Historic East Village.
November 25th – 27th. Check here for all showtimes!
This Tony Award® Pulitzer Prize winner returns to the stage for a vibrant 20th anniversary touring production. RENT follows a year in the lives of seven artists struggling to follow their dreams. This Broadway show is a great reminder of friendship, creativity and the one thing that truly matters, love.
November 26th from 8 am – 12 pm
A Des Moines Tradition! Check out all the details and sign-up here!
Interested in booking a room with us? View our accommodations and room options and learn about our waterpark, a family favorite!
