Christmas is in the air, and it’s hard not to get into the holiday spirit. Iowa is full of amazing Christmas events, many in the middle of its biggest cities, but there’s something special about a small-town Christmas. The streets are lined with lights, everyone seems to be in a festive mood, and every business in town seems to be getting into the act. For the best old-fashioned Christmas in Iowa, the type you remember celebrating growing up, the best place to visit is Winterset. This quiet little town in the heart of Madison County is a popular tourist spot for its beautiful covered bridges and rustic atmosphere, but the Christmas season may just be when the town’s charm is at its peak – and now is the time to see it for yourself.

Winter has arrived in Winterset, and with it one of the most amazing holiday seasons in all of Iowa.
Madison County Chamber of Commerce/Facebook
The festivities start at the end of November, as the final Saturday of the month plays host to Small Business Saturday - featuring a pancake breakfast and a horse-drawn carriage ride around the courthouse square.
Madison County
The annual Winter Solstice Market takes over the Winterset Livery building in December, allowing you to broswe a massive selection of local goods, crafts, and food.
Madison County
St. Paul's Lutheran Church is also getting into the act, with their own holiday market and a local holiday homes tour.
Saint Paul's Lutheran Church Winterset/Facebook

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Of course, a visit to Winterset wouldn't be complete without a tour of the town's amazing covered bridges - which look completely different and incredibly beautiful covered in snow.
Brenda M/TripAdvisor
For the kids, keep an eye out for Santa's old-fashioned Christmas party. It's the best chance for them to meet the jolly old elf and give him their fondest Christmas wish.
Madison County Chamber of Commerce/Facebook
However, nothing in Winterset compares to the annual festival of lights, kicking off the holiday season the day after Thanksgiving with a massive parade full of floats and music.
Madison County Chamber of Commerce/Facebook
The parade's historic vehicles and live animals go on a tour around the Madison County courthouse and its historic buildings. It's the perfect kick-off to your old-fashioned Christmas in Iowa.
Madison County

Have you visited the town of Winterset during the holiday season? Let us know about your visit, and tell us about the best place for an old-fashioned Christmas in Iowa in the comments section. If you want to know more about Winterset’s events this holiday season, visit the Madison County website for all the latest details. And for another unforgettable Christmas event in the Hawkeye State, why not visit an entire Christmas village?

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Featured Addresses
Winterset, IA 50273, USA
Roseman Bridge Road, Roseman Bridge Rd, Iowa 50273, USA
St. Paul Lutheran Church, 1120 N 8th Ave, Winterset, IA 50273, USA
Winterset Livery, 116 S 1st Ave, Winterset, IA 50273, USA