Winterset’s Festival of Lights: Christmas Parade and Holiday Fun (2026)

Christmas lights, decorated storefronts, and a parade around the courthouse square. Winterset’s Festival of Lights is a festive way to spend the Friday after Thanksgiving.

For 2026, the celebration takes place Friday, November 27, from 5–8 p.m., with the lighted Christmas parade beginning at 7:15 p.m.

Location: Downtown Winterset’s courthouse square and surrounding shopping district.

The photos below are from a previous visit and offer a look at the atmosphere on festival night.

Starting at 5 p.m.: Window displays and visits with Santa

Arrive before the parade to explore downtown. Live and lighted storefront displays begin at 5 p.m., and visitors can vote for their favorite at the Chamber’s Welcome Center until 8 p.m.

Food and beverages will be available on the west side of the courthouse lawn. Santa will be inside the courthouse for visits and photos you take yourself, with his appearance ending at 6:45 p.m.

Check the official Festival of Lights listing for updates before your trip.

Starting at 7:15 p.m.: The lighted Christmas parade

The Festival of Lights Parade begins at 7:15 p.m.

During our visit, the floats circled the courthouse square multiple times. It gave us another chance to enjoy the decorations and catch details we missed on the first pass.

Arrive early enough to find a viewing spot, and dress warmly for an evening outdoors. Check the organizer’s updates for any changes to this year’s parade arrangements.

Starting at 8 p.m.: Elf at the Iowa Theater

Finish the evening with Elf at the Iowa Theater, scheduled for 8 p.m. Admission is free with a food pantry donation.

If you plan to attend, bring a nonperishable food item along for the evening.