11 Reasons Christmas in Iowa Is the Absolute Best

Christmastime in Iowa is undeniably special. Whether you’re here every year for the season or you find yourself back in town to visit family for the holidays, you know nothing beats a Christmas surrounded by the people and places that you love.

From the snowy season to the holiday light displays and delicious food, here are 11 reasons why Christmastime in Iowa is simply the absolute best.

1. We Almost Always Have a White Christmas

The snow falls so beautifully during Christmastime in Iowa. You're almost always guaranteed a magical holiday season in this snowy winter wonderland. The state averages 18 to 42 inches of snow annually, and the first snowfall typically occurs around December 12—just in time for the festivities.

2. The Holiday Light Shows Are Top-Tier

Iowa knows how to put on a holiday light show—the state's display put others to shame. Some of the best are the Kall Christmas Lights in Davenport, the Mount Pleasant Festival of Lights, and Main Street in Oskaloosa. Each place offers spectacular walk-throughs and photo ops for the whole family.

3. The Towns Go All Out for Christmas

Most major towns in Iowa will have some kind of Christmas event or activity—whether that be a Christmas tree lighting, a holiday light show, or even a parade through downtown. These traditions always put locals and tourists into a festive state of mind. Some must-see events include Atlantic's Christmas parade—complete with floats and all!—down Chestnut Street, and the fireworks show at Historic Rock Island Depot on December 6.

4. We Have Awesome Christmas Festivals and Traditions

Because the state has a strong Dutch heritage, there are plenty of special traditions and festivals to experience. One is Sinterklaus Day, run by the Dutch Heritage Boosters of Orange City, on December 6. This parade, festival, puppet show, and arts and crafts event is perfect for the whole family and shares the tradition and message of Sinterklaus with the community.

5. The Horse-Drawn Sleigh Rides Are Magical

There is nothing better than a festive holiday tradition that comes straight out of a Christmas song like "Jingle Bells." Riding in a one (or two) horse open sleigh is possible in Iowa, with plenty of locations offering thrilling sleigh rides through the powdery snow. Jester Park in Granger, Iowa, offers starting November 29 and all through December.

6. We're Home to Santa's Castle

If you've ever wondered where Santa goes to rest on the off-season, it's right here in Storm Lake, Iowa. The Old Carnegie Library is now known as Santa's Castle, and it becomes a decked-out Christmas wonderland come December. Visitors are welcome at Santa's Castle starting November 27, on Friday and Saturday from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

7. We Have Our Own Polar Express

The Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad in Iowa turns into a real-life Polar Express during the holidays. Hop aboard the railway's Santa Express for a ride of wonder, holiday sights, piping hot cocoa, carols, and more. The Santa Express starts November 28 through December 21. Adult basic coach tickets start at $28. It will truly put you in the Christmas spirit.

8. Nothing Beats an Iowa-Style Christmas Dinner

Nothing can really beat the delicious holiday treats that come out of our state. Home kitchens, diners, and upscale restaurants all serve up the most scrumptious honey-baked hams, sweet potato casserole, Brussels sprouts, and more during Christmastime. Some restaurants where you can get traditional Christmas dinner include the Monarch Kitchen + Bar in Davenport and Granite City Brewery in Cedar Rapids.

9. Or the Holiday Treats, Like Puppy Chow

Beyond the main meal, Iowa's holiday desserts are also unmatched. The start of the show? Puppy chow—a bowl of Chex cereal covered in peanut butter, chocolate, and powdered sugar, or a mix of other confectionary concoctions. Some places might call this muddy buddies, but it'll always be puppy chow to Iowans.

10. We Share the Spirit With all Iowan Families

Another great thing about the holidays in Iowa? The amazing families in our state. We love lending each other a helping hand during Christmastime, sharing food, gifts, and cheerful gestures with our community. There's nothing better than celebrating with the people you love and appreciate!

11. The Holiday Decor Is So Creative

Most towns in Iowa—whether it's a display at a local park, holiday light show at a museum or downtown, or even a lit-up neighborhood or house—get creative with their decor. This makes it super fun to take a roadtrip around the state, or even plan a weekend getaway, to celebrate Christmastime.

What other parts about Iowa make it the best place to be during the holidays? Discover for yourself by taking a trip to the Hawkeye State in December, using Only In Your State's itinerary planner to guide your plans.