Festival of Trees
Through Sunday, December 1
Monday through Friday, 10 AM-4 PM; Saturday through Sunday, 12-4 PM @ Ohnward Fine Arts Center (Maquoketa, IA)
Bid on creative trees and beautiful wreaths and enjoy theater entertainment. Proceeds
will go to the Ohnward Fine Arts Center. Visit OhnwardFineArtsCenter.com.
Reflections in the Park
Through Wednesday, January 1
5-10 PM @ Louis Murphy Park
Hillcrest Family Services’ annual lights festival. Visit Hillcrest-FS.org.
12 Days of Christmas
Through Tuesday, December 31 @ Hotel Julien
Peek at this year’s 12 days of Christmas events happening throughout the holiday season. Visit HotelJuienDubuque.com.
The Best Christmas Pageant Ever, The Musical
Sunday, December 1 & 8, 2 PM
Friday & Saturday, December 6-7, 7:30 PM @ Grand Opera House
The Herdmans are the worst kids in the history of the world, so when they crash Sunday school and demand parts in the Christmas pageant, the whole town panics. It’s up to the Bradleys and the reverend to help their community see the Christmas story and the Herdman kids through new eyes in this musical adaptation of the holiday classic. Visit TheGrandOperaHouse.com.
Early Explorers: K is for Kestrel
Tuesday, December 3
10-11 AM @ National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium
Early Explorers is open to children ages 2-5 along with a parent or caregiver. Programs include a variety of hands-on and active activities, including a craft and a game. A parent and/or caregiver can attend the program for free with the toddler. Visit RiverMuseum.org.
Tree Lighting Ceremony
Wednesday, December 4
6-7:30 PM @ Hotel Julien
Come to the Hotel Julien’s lobby as they unveil their Christmas tree. Enjoy Christmas cookies, hot chocolate, music, a visit from Santa Claus, and a tree-lighting ceremony. Visit HotelJulienDubuque.com.
Wild West Wednesdays
Wednesday, December 4, 11 & 18
7-11 PM @ Dubuque County Fairgrounds
Come for country dance music and fun. All ages. Visit DBQFair.com.
Mistletones® present SNOWBIZ®
Thursday, December 5
12 PM & 6 PM @ Hotel Julien
Celebrate the season with a full-length Christmas show featuring favorite holiday tunes, incredible vocals, and a live jazz band. Visit HotelJulienDubuque.com.
SNOWBIZ® by the Mistletones®
Thursday, December 5
1:30 PM & 7:30 PM @ Grande Ballroom, Hotel Julien.
Come see the performance of SNOWBIZ® by the Mistletones®.This dinner-theater experience combines exceptional vocals, a live jazz band, and holiday fare. The Mistletones® feature some of the finest musicians from the Tri-States. Matinee and evening performances. For more information or tickets, contact Cathy Goodman at (563) 599-7775, or visit Mistletones.biz.
Evergreen Centerpiece
Thursday, December 5
6-8 PM @ Heinemann Visitor Center, Dubuque Arboretum & Botanical Gardens
Workshop: Create holiday evergreen decor. Visit DubuqueArboretum.net.
First Fridays
Friday, December 6
@ Various Locations in Dubuque
First Fridays is Downtown Dubuque’s monthly visual art series, hosted by galleries, museums, and venues, celebrating Dubuque’s great visual arts scene. Visit DbqArt.org/First-Fridays.
A Merry Millwork Market
Friday & Saturday, December 6-7
Friday, 4-8 PM; Saturday, 9 AM-2 PM @ Millwork District
A unique holiday shopping experience featuring the best of local crafts, sips, and bites benefiting nonprofits of the Dubuque Millwork Collective. Visit MerryMillworkMarket.com.
Seasonal Allergies
Thursday through Sunday, December 6-22
Thursdays & Fridays, 7:30 PM; Saturday, December 7 & 14, 7:30 PM; Saturday, December 21, 2 PM; Sundays, 2 PM @ Bell Tower Theater
What are the holidays without a little chaos? Julia’s life is turned upside down when her soon-to-be-divorced brother shows up unexpectedly and stays from Thanksgiving through New Year’s. Visit BellTowerTheater.net.
Christmas at the Heritage Center
Friday, December 6
7:30 PM @ University of Dubuque, John & Alice Butler Hall
The Department of Fine and Performing Arts celebrates the birth of Christ through a concert presentation featuring the John and Alice Butler Pipe Organ, U.D. choirs, and U.D. Concert Band with live narration. Complimentary holiday refreshments and live music from the U.D. Jazz Band will immediately follow the concert. Visit Dbq.edu/HeritageCenter.
DSO Holiday Family Concert
Saturday, December 7
1 PM @ Five Flags Theater
This one-hour program of kid-friendly holiday music and sing-along tunes features the Dubuque Symphony Orchestra (DSO), vocalist Kira Guloien, the Dubuque Chorale Children’s Choir, and members of the Heartland Ballet. Includes photos with Santa post-concert. Visit DubuqueSymphony.org.
Light Up The Hill Luminary
Saturday, December 7
5:30-8:30 PM @ Knob Hill Neighborhood of Fremont Ave.
Free to drive or walk through neighborhood to view 100 homes decorated with Christmas lights and luminaries. Free parking at Church of Latter-Day Saints, 685 Fremont Ave. For more information, email Angie@TravelHdqDbq.com.
Scuba Santa
Saturday & Sunday, December 7-8
12-1 PM @ The Mississippi River Museum
Scuba Santa will be diving in the Main Channel Aquarium, located in the William Woodward Mississippi River Center. Visit RiverMuseum.org.
Celebrate the Holidays with the DSO
Saturday & Sunday December 7-8
Saturday, 7:30 PM; Sunday, 2 PM @ Five Flags Theater
The warm sounds of the holidays fill the hall as the Dubuque Symphony Orchestra (DSO) is joined by vocalist Kira Guloien, the Dubuque Chorale, and members of the Heartland Ballet. Expect to hear plenty of holiday favorites. Visit DubuqueSympony.org.
Breakfast With Santa
Sunday, December 8
8:30-10:30 AM @ Hotel Julien
Come for breakfast with Santa in the Grande Ballroom. Each child can write a letter to Santa, create a tree ornament, and decorate a Christmas cookie. RSVP. Visit HotelJulienDubuque.com.
Nutcracker
Tuesday, December 10
7 PM @ Five Flags Center
World Ballet Company presents Nutcracker live on stage and features a multinational cast of 40 professional ballet dancers gathered to bring the most beloved holiday tradition to life. Visit FiveFlagsCenter.com.
Homeschool Days
Thursday, December 12
10 AM-4 PM @ National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium
Discover a variety of hands-on science activities. Visit RiverMuseum.org.
Holiday Paint & Sip
Thursday, December 12
6-8 PM @ Hotel Julien
Come for a fun-filled evening of creativity and paint your very own wine or stein glass. All supplies and instructions will be provided. RSVP. Visit HotelJulienDubuque.com.
Ducks Unlimited – Wetlands Conservation
Thursday, December 12
7-8 PM @ EB Lyons Interpretive Center, 8991 Bellevue Heights Rd.
Program details will be posted on the website. Visit AudubonDubuque.org/Events.
Kids Night Out
Friday, December 13
5:30-8:30 PM @ Loras College Graber Sports Center
Play sports, games, crafts, bounce house, swimming, and more. Hosted by Loras College Women’s Basketball. Open to boys and girls, pre-K to 6th grade. Visit LorasGirlsBasketballCamp.com.
Peace on Earth, Good Will to Dogs
Friday through Sunday, December 13-15
Friday, 7 PM; Saturday, 2 PM & 7 PM; Sunday, 2 PM @ Lacy Mansion, 1640 Main St.
Fly-By-Night Productions presents this charming Christmas “tail” that will delight and leave you with a jingle of cheer for your holiday season. Visit FlyByNightDubuque.com.
John Denver Christmas
Friday, December 13
7:30 PM @ University of Dubuque, John & Alice Butler Hall
Layne Yost’s tribute captures John Denver’s music and legacy through heartfelt performances and stories that resonate with his timeless spirit. Visit Dbq.edu/HeritageCenter.
Meet the Grinch
Saturday, December 14
10 AM-12 PM @ Home+FloorShow, 1475 Associates Dr.
Get ready to meet the Grinch. Snap some fun photos, enjoy hot chocolate, and indulge in delicious cookies while getting into the holiday spirit. Visit Facebook.com/Events/520451974243180/?ref=newsfeed.
Home for the Holidays
Saturday, December 14
11 AM-4 PM @ Mathias Ham Historic Site
The Ham House will be decorated in period style and costumed interpreters will share winter holiday traditions from Dubuque’s history. Refreshments and crafts will be available, included as part of admission. Visit RiverMuseum.org.
Holiday Arts & Crafts Show
Saturday and Sunday, December 14-15
Saturday, 5-9 PM; Sunday, 10 AM-4 PM @ Grand River Center
This is the area’s largest show with more than 125 exhibitors presenting and selling thousands of unique handmade products such as oak furniture, jewelry, floral arrangements, lawn and garden art, pottery, ceramics, quilts, and more. For more information, contact (563) 357-1986.
Home for the Holidays – Candlelight Tours
Saturday, December 14
6-7 PM @ Mathias Ham Historic Site
The 45-minute candlelight tour will allow visitors to take in the house in a different light. The tour will focus on celebration of the winter solstice and how those activities evolved into the winter traditions of today. Registration required. Visit RiverMuseum.org.
Dubuque City Youth Ballet: The Nutcracker
Friday & Saturday, December 14, 20-21, 7:30 PM
Saturday & Sunday, December 15, 21-22, 2 PM @ Grand Opera House
Whirling snowflakes and waltzing flowers frame this beloved holiday classic. Clara and her enchanted Nutcracker battle the dreadful Mouse King in a nightmare that becomes a beautiful dream. Visit TheGrandOperaHouse.com.
Tay Tay Dance Party
Saturday, December 14
7:30 PM @ Five Flags Theater
This is an all-ages event featuring DJ Swiftie, the world’s #1 Taylor Swift-inspired tribute DJ. The reputation-themed dance party will immerse Taylor Swift fans in an unforgettable night of music, energy, and excitement. Visit FiveFlagsCenter.com.
Breakfast with Santa
Sunday, December 15
8 AM-12 PM @ Dubuque County Fairgrounds
Enjoy breakfast with Santa along with children’s activities. Meal includes pancakes, sausage, ham, tater tots, eggs, applesauce, OJ, milk, and coffee. RSVP. Visit DbqFair.com.
Toys for Tots Kids’ Christmas Party
Sunday, December 15
12-3 PM @ Five Flags Arena
One gigantic and free Christmas bash hosted by Toys for Tots, the Dubuque Police Department, and 365ink. Hundreds of local kids enjoy music, dancing, inflatable rides, treats, plus photos with Santa as well as Frozen and Star Wars characters. Visit Facebook.com/DBQToysForTots.
Home for the Holidays – Afternoon Tea
Sunday, December 15
1-3 PM @ Mathias Ham Historic Site
The staff will share short excerpts from their favorite books. Bring your favorite book about winter or come and discover a new favorite. An assortment of finger sandwiches, holiday treats, a variety of teas, and hot chocolate with marshmallows will be provided. Visit RiverMuseum.org.
Brew Ha Ha Players’ Cutthroat Christmas
Sunday, December 15
5-7 PM @ Stone Cliff Winery
The Cutter’s Tree Farm is Iowa’s ultimate destination for Christmas trees. As the holiday season approaches, a prickly pine parasite threatens to upend the entire inventory. While President Pine remains nonchalant, the rest of the team faces the grim reality of lost jobs, and soon discover that trees aren’t the only thing on the chopping block. Includes a four “corpse” meal and a show. Visit StoneCliffWinery.com.
Exercise Your Independence
Tuesday, December 17
2-3 PM @ Stonehill Assisi Village, 1001 Assisi Dr.
Physical activity is an important part of a healthy lifestyle. Learn about tips and strategies to stay active and fit physical activity into a busy schedule. This free workshop is presented by Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. RSVP. For more information, email THummer@StoneHillDbq.com.
Home Free
Tuesday, December 17
7 PM @ Five Flags Center
Home Free is known for their extraordinary harmonies and a cappella renditions of your favorite songs, as well as their original music. This chart-topping, Nashville-based group performs with a blend of country and pop sounds. Visit FiveFlagsCenter.com.
Lunch & Learn: Seed Catalogs
Wednesday, December 18
12-1 PM @ Convivium Urban Farmstead
Convivium farm manager AJ will share his seed catalog tips and tricks. Visit Convivium-Dbq.com.
She Unites
Wednesday, December 18
6:30-7:30 PM @ The Innovation Lab, 210 Jones St.
Come together for an evening of socialization and education. She Unites features rotating speakers, talking about anything and everything pertaining to women in a chill environment. Make a new friend, have authentic conversations, and leave with inspiration to power you through. Visit SheUnitesIowa.com/Events.
Christmas Cocktails for a Cause
Friday, December 20
5-8 PM @ Riverboat Lounge
An evening filled with delectable drinks and inspiring company—all for a great cause. Enjoy a special Christmas cocktail prepared by Tony Pfohl and Chad Chandlee at this fundraising event. A portion of each cocktail will be given to the local non-profit, Hills & Dales. Visit HotelJulienDubuque.com.
Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer
Friday, December 20
7 PM @ Five Flags Arena
Join the adventure as Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer: The Musical returns to celebrate its 10th year on tour, bringing the beloved holiday classic to life. Visit FiveFlagsCenter.com.
Winter Bounce
Saturday & Sunday, December 28-29
8 AM-1 PM & 3-8 PM @ Five Flags Center
Winter Bounce will feature nearly 30 inflatables, including bounce houses, obstacle courses, and interactive games. Enjoylaser tag and mini golf as well. Hours are the same for both Saturday and Sunday. Visit FiveFlagsCenter.com.
Dubuque Audubon Annual Christmas Bird Count
Saturday, December 28
8 AM @ EB Lyons Interpretive Center
Join Dubuque Audubon field trip leaders as they split into groups to identify and count birds within a 10-mile radius of Center Grove Methodist Church, Dubuque. All skill levels are welcome. Visit AudubonDubuque.org.
Winter Break Day Camps
Monday & Tuesday, December 30-31
9 AM-4 PM @ Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium
Special day camps for kids in K-5th grade during winter break. Each day offers different themed sessions with fun, educational programs. Students to bring a sack lunch. Visit RiverMuseum.org.
New Year’s Eve Party
Tuesday, December 31
6 PM @ Hotel Julien
Ozzy & Bon JoeB will be playing rock and country hits to kick things off. Then dynamic DJ Saxophonist Nostalgia Rush will take you on a musical journey throughout the rest of the night. Visit HotelJulienDubuque.com.
An Evening with Roy and Friends
Tuesday, December 31
7 PM @ Ohnward Fine Arts Center (Maquoketa, IA)
Enjoy music from Elvis, Ricky Nelson, Sam Cooke, Dion & The Belmonts, Bobby Darin, Roy Orbison, and more. Visit OhnwardFineArtsCenter.com.
Celebrating Sinatra & The Great American Songbook
Tuesday, December 31
8 PM @ The Grand Opera House
Spend New Year’s Eve with Bryan Anthony’s Celebrating Sinatra & The Great American Songbook Featuring Hunter Fuerste’s Orchestra and the music of Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr., Nat King Cole, Bobby Darin, and Old Blue Eyes. Visit TheGrandOperaHouse.com.
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