Holidays 2024

Published November 1, 2024

As the holiday season approaches, Wapello County transforms into a winter wonderland brimming with small-town charm and festive cheer. The close-knit communities come alive with a variety of events that celebrate the season, from heartwarming holiday markets to live shows featuring beloved Christmas classics. Whether you're gathering with friends and family for an enchanting performance or simply soaking in the twinkling lights, there’s no shortage of ways to embrace the holiday spirit in our community. Join us as we explore the best attractions and events that make Ottumwa the perfect place to celebrate this joyous time of year!

Events

An Enchanted Forest (November 22-23)

The Enchanted Forest Open House returns for another holiday season! Over two enchanting nights, attendees can shop for beautifully decorated Christmas trees and festive decor donated by local businesses and organizations. Enjoy kids' activities, a vendor fair, carriage rides, and visits from delightful holiday characters.

Holiday Nights 'N Lights (November 23-December 27)

For 20 years and counting, Holiday Nights 'N Lights has been a cherished holiday tradition in Ottumwa. For a full month, Greater Ottumwa Park transforms into a dazzling light display featuring over 80 installations spread across 24 acres. Gather the family, hop in the car, and start a new tradition!

CPKC Holiday Train (November 28)

The CPKC Holiday Train will be returning to Ottumwa during its 2024 tour to raise funds, food, and awareness for food banks across the U.S. and Canada. Kick off the holidays by helping make the season a little brighter for those in need.

Lights of Love (November 29)

Each year, Main Street Ottumwa transforms Central Park into a festive wonderland with dozens of Christmas trees. Each tree is either sponsored by a local business or dedicated in memory of a loved one. The official lighting ceremony will take place on November 29, and the trees will remain aglow through the entire holiday season for all to enjoy.

Christmas on the River (November 30)

Christmas on the River is a cherished annual event in the historic town of Eddyville, drawing visitors for a day filled with holiday cheer. The festivities feature a vendor fair, a Christmas tree auction, craft activities, a gingerbread house competition, book reading by Mrs. Claus, a tree lighting ceremony, caroling, and so much more.

Main Street Holiday Event (December 6-7)

Eldon Holiday Hop (December 7)

The Holiday Hop happens every year in the town of Eldon, showcasing pop-up vendors throughout the community offering a delightful array of unique items that would make the perfect gift. Pick up your punch card and visit each stop for a chance to win the grand prize basket! In addition to shopping, there will be fun activities for the kids, including the Gingerbread "House" Party at the iconic American Gothic House.

Shows

The Best Christmas Pageant Ever (November 22-24)

To conclude their 20th season, the Ottumwa Community Children's Playhouse will present a performance of the hilarious Christmas classic, The Best Christmas Pageant Ever. This story follows a couple who face unexpected challenges while attempting to organize a church Christmas pageant, particularly when they are forced to cast the notorious Herdman family—the worst kids in the history of the world.

A Christmas Carol by John Jakes (December 5-7)

For their Fall/Winter play, the Indian Hills Performing Arts Department will be performing one of the most beloved Christmas tales of all time, A Christmas Carol. This captivating adaptation by John Jakes beautifully captures the magic of Dickens' original story through the eyes of Charles Dickens himself, who weaves in and out of the action helping Scrooge navigate to the iconic “God Bless Us Everyone” finale.

Blue Violin: Candlelight Christmas (December 7)

Immerse yourself in the captivating melodies of award-winning classical crossover artist, The Blue Violin for an all-new Christmas show. This intimate performance of music and dance blends the soulful voice of the violin with the songs of Christmas, creating an atmosphere of elegance, fascination, and mystique.

Bells are Ringing (December 12)

The annual Indian Hills Community College holiday concert will showcase beloved holiday classics performed by the college choir, jazz band, and talented faculty of the music department.

Deep in the Heart of Christmas (December 14)

The Texas Tenors Return to Ottumwa for a Christmas Show with the Ottumwa Symphony Orchestra. This sensational show is designed to bring out that feeling of a traditional family Christmas. Backed by a live orchestra, the amazing vocals displayed by The Texas Tenors sound extra fabulous during the holidays!

Tuba Christmas (December 15)

Ottumwa's Lowly Brass are back for their annual Tuba Christmas concert on Sunday, December 15th at Indian Hills Community College. This free concert will feature all your favorite Christmas songs, performed by tuba and euphonium players of all ages from around Southeast Iowa.

A Conversation with Chevy Chase (December 15)

Join us for a memorable evening filled with holiday cheer and laughter as we celebrate the timeless classic National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation with a special 35th anniversary screening. Afterwards, stay for a live conversation and Q&A with the one and only Chevy Chase and his wife, Jayni.