MUSCATINE, Iowa – The holiday season has arrived, and with it comes a sparkling sense of wonder across Muscatine. From twinkling lights to joyful gatherings, the community is brimming with festive events that bring together families, friends, neighbors, and visitors to celebrate the most magical time of the year.
Below is a merry lineup of celebrations sure to fill your heart with Christmas cheer. Enjoy music, lights, gift-giving, and plenty of opportunities to shop local for those special surprises destined to appear under the tree.
JINGLE AND MINGLE – A HOLIDAY STROLL
Muscatine’s favorite holiday block party returns Friday, December 5, from 5:30–8 p.m. “Jingle and Mingle – A Holiday Stroll” transforms six blocks of Downtown Muscatine into a winter wonderland filled with free family fun.
PLEASE NOTE: To accommodate the event, 2nd Street will be closed to vehicular traffic and will be pedestrian only from the Mulberry Roundabout to Pine Street from 4-10 p.m. Walnut, Cedar, Sycamore, Iowa, and Chestnut will be blocked off at the #1 Alley and at the #2 Alley.
Enjoy photos with Santa, meet beloved Frozen characters, sip free hot chocolate, take in live music, and discover surprises at every turn.
The festivities begin with the Community Christmas Tree Lighting at 5:30 p.m. at MidwestOne Bank on East 2nd Street.
More than 30 businesses will join the celebration—perfect for checking off your holiday shopping list with unique, local gifts. All attractions are free.
CANDY CANE HUNT AT RIVERSIDE PARK
Young holiday hunters will gather inside Pearl City Station in Riverside Park before 6 p.m. on Friday, December 5, for Muscatine’s annual Candy Cane Hunt.
Two search areas will be designated for the hunt that will begin at 6 p.m.: Pre-K through 1st grade; and, 2nd through 4th grade.
Children can keep the candy canes they find and earn a prize for each one collected—plus, several specially marked canes can be exchanged for extra-special toys inside Pearl City Station.
Because the hunt takes place after dark, participants are encouraged to bring flashlights; a limited number will be available on site.
HOLIDAY SPECTACULAR ON THE RIVERFRONT
A shining Muscatine tradition returns for its fifth season as the Holiday Spectacular on the Riverfront premieres Friday, December 5. This dazzling music-and-light production features five new songs and six returning favorites.
Musco Lighting, Muscatine Power & Water (MPW), and the City of Muscatine have once again partnered to illuminate the Norbert F. Beckey Bridge with a show that has become a must-see holiday highlight.
Tune your car radio to 87.9 FM while parked at Riverside Park to enjoy the choreographed music from the warmth of your vehicle. Shows run nightly from 5 p.m. to midnight through January 4, 2026.
iLLUMINATE BY CROSSROADS
The enchantment of the season shines brightly as iLLUMINATE by Crossroads returns for its third year. This beloved drive-through light show at historic Weed Park has become a treasured Muscatine tradition, welcoming more than 10,000 vehicles since its debut.
Glowing nightly through December 28, from 5:30–8:30 p.m., iLLUMINATE invites all to enjoy a heartwarming celebration of community and generosity. A $10 per-car donation is requested.
Mark your calendars for December 15 for the Lighted Parade where guests are encouraged to decorate their cars and add an extra shimmer to the route.
HEARTFELT & HANDMADE – FAMILY FESTIVAL AND MARKET
Usher in December with creativity and cheer at the Muscatine Art Center’s Family Festival & Market, from 10 a.m.–1 p.m. on Saturday, December 6.
The historic Musser Mansion becomes a festive marketplace filled with local vendors, holiday décor, and special collectible items from the estate of James (Jim) Burr. Children can enjoy hands-on crafts, photos with Santa, and a free-will donation hot chocolate bar.
Admission is free, with proceeds supporting the Friends of the Muscatine Art Center and educational programs.
CHRISTMAS CLASSICS WITH THE MUSCATINE SYMPHONY
Warm up indoors with a festive evening of music as the Muscatine Symphony Orchestra presents Christmas with the Symphony at 7 p.m. on Saturday, December 6, at Wesley United Methodist Church, 400 Iowa Avenue.
Enjoy timeless holiday favorites, medleys, and a few seasonal surprises. Admission is free with a donation of canned goods, new toys, or a monetary gift. More information is available at muscatinesymphony.org.
HABITAT FOR HUMANITY CHRISTMAS TOUR OF CHURCHES
Celebrate the season with a reflective and inspiring experience during Habitat for Humanity’s Christmas Tour of Churches, held from 2–4 p.m. on Sunday, December 7.
Guests can explore six beautifully decorated Muscatine churches, learning about their history, traditions, and Advent displays.
Participating locations include: Grace Lutheran Church, Trinity Episcopal Church, Zion Lutheran Church, Wesley United Methodist Church, First Presbyterian Church, and, Saints Mary and Mathias Catholic Church.
Tickets are available at muscatinehabitat.org, the Habitat office inside Real Estate Resource Associates, or at each church on tour day.
ELVES WORKSHOP – MUSCATINE MALL, DECEMBER 13
Santa and his elves are making a special stop at the Muscatine Mall! Children are invited to become honorary elves during this FREE drop-in workshop from 12–2 p.m. on Saturday, December 13.
Little ones can create festive crafts, spread Christmas cheer, and enjoy a magical afternoon alongside the Muscatine Area Farmers Market’s Handcrafted Christmas celebration.
A HANDCRAFTED CHRISTMAS AT THE MUSCATINE MALL
Finish your holiday shopping with heart at A Handcrafted Christmas, hosted by the Muscatine Area Farmers Market from 10 a.m.–2 p.m. on Saturday, December 13, at the Muscatine Mall.
Browse an array of handmade gifts, holiday décor, baked goods, artisanal foods, cozy crafts, and unique items from local makers. Whether you need stocking stuffers or that perfect last-minute present, this festive indoor market offers something for everyone.
Event details and vendor information can be found on the Muscatine Area Farmers Market Facebook page.