Local Holiday Happenings: Cedar Rapids and the surrounding area

As we move into the holidays, our corner of Eastern Iowa really shows off what makes it special — small-town charm, community spirit, and events that bring everyone together. Whether you’re hunting for décor ideas at a holiday market, running off some turkey calories, or soaking in lights along the Cedar River, these are some of my favorite ways to kick off the season right here at home.

Cedar Rapids Turkey Trot 5K — Downtown Cedar Rapids
📅 Thursday, November 27, 2025 (Thanksgiving Morning)
📍 3rd St. SE & 10th Ave. SE, Cedar Rapids, IA US 52401
Start your Thanksgiving with a little movement (and maybe a donut or two). The Turkey Trot 5K is a Cedar Rapids favorite — a great way to connect with friends, family, and community before the big meal. I'm all signed up and I hope to see you there!

Tannenbaum Forest at the Festhalle Barn — Amana Colonies
📅 Weekends, November 28 – December 21, 2025
📍 Festhalle Barn, 4707 220th Trail, Amana
Step into a barn filled with 70+ uniquely decorated Christmas trees and a 17-foot German Christmas pyramid. It’s one of the most charming and nostalgic holiday experiences in the Midwest — bundle up, it’s unheated!

Christmas in the Park & Peppermint Walk — Marion, IA
📅 Friday, December 5, 2025
📍 City Square Park & Uptown Marion
Tree lighting, Santa and Mrs. Claus, hot cocoa, carolers, and local shops decked out for the season. A small-town holiday scene straight out of a movie — and a great night to support Uptown businesses.

Five Seasons Lights — McGrath Amphitheatre, Cedar Rapids
📅 December 5 – December 28, 2025
📍 Along the Cedar River, McGrath Amphitheatre
Take a walk through thousands of holiday lights and festive displays downtown. It’s free, family-friendly, and one of the most photogenic spots in the city during December.

Wrap-Up: The Season for Connection (and Opportunity)
​November officially marks what I like to call Investor Season — that window when motivated sellers and savvy buyers start looking to make smart moves before year-end. If you’re curious about opportunities in our local market or want to talk investment strategy heading into 2026, I’m always happy to grab coffee and chat.
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