If you’re looking for somewhere to get into the Christmas spirit this year, spend the holidays in Charles City, Iowa.
There’s something about Christmas in the City, or town, or small rural village! Really, there is something so special about Christmas and all that it entails! And this year, if you’re feeling less than jolly, I highly recommend spending the holidays in Charles City, Iowa.
Spending 36 hours in Charles City in December, it’s hard not to get into the holiday spirit. There are several ways to enjoy the holidays in North Central Iowa!
Grab a Festive Drink from Aroma’s
Downtown Charles City you’ll find locally owned Aroma’s. Not only do they roast their own coffee beans, they make delicious drinks! Festive drinks like Peppermint Mocha’s or my personal favorite, an Eggnog Latte, will help you get in the mood for some holiday fun!
Shop Downtown Charles City
After spending time in downtown Charles City perusing their shops, you can’t help but feel more in the Christmas spirit! Make sure to stop by places like Darby & Co and check out the handmade chocolates! These truffles are handmade by Nancy and have been since 1996. I was amazed at the detail of each truffle knowing there are no machines involved! And when we lifted the lid of the display case to get better pictures, we were blown away by the amazing smell! I’d love to find one or two or 12 in my stocking! There is also a variety of great clothing, jewelry, and wine plus so much more at Darby & Co for the ladies on your list!
Plan a Midwest Winter Weekend Getaways
Next, head down to Rustic Corner! Their large store (2 full floors) is jam packed with gifts for everyone on your list as well as amazing home decor and Christmas decorations! If you need something more personalized, you can do that at their P. Graham Dunn personalized gifts section!
There are so many more shops to hit including Cardigan, Saxony, and Prologue Books & Wine! You’ll be able to grab several Christmas presents while getting in the holiday spirit in Charles City.
Head to Otto’s Oasis
Just step foot inside and you will be transported to the ultimate Christmas experience! Massive Christmas trees decorated to the nth degree were a feast to the eyes! The festive scents and decor will leave you feeling warm, cozy, and jolly! Make sure to take the time to explore all the amazing gift items Otto’s has to offer before heading to their greenhouse!
They are also hosting their annual Poinsettia Open House the weekend of November 24-26th. You can shop their beautiful home decor plus check out their greenhouse bursting with poinsettia’s of all colors! And, if that isn’t enough, Santa will be there Saturday November 25th for pictures from 11AM-2PM. Grab tasty bites of food too!
Festival of Trees
The annual Charles City Festival of Trees is being hosted by the Charles City Public Library this year! Their holiday season kicks off with their holiday open house on December 5th. In the past, more than 9 trees are decorated in a variety of ways! Each tree is decorated by an area not-for-profit organization and the community can support their favorite cause or tree by placing donations in the buckets at the base of the tree! Each organization gets to keep all donations! It is fun to see all the different decorations! In the past, my favorite was the red, white, & blue tree decorated by the Junior & Senior Members of the Shannon Wilson Unit 174. My step-dad is a Navy veteran and anything that gives a nod to vets is a winner in my book!
Visit Santa & More Holiday Goodness
There are so many things to do in Charles City during the 2023 Holiday season! Check more out:
- Memory Lane Charles City is a display set up near Otto’s Oasis.
- Santa’s Shining Lights in Central Park.
- Visits with Santa & Wagon Rides in Central Park.
- Santa Paws at Otto’s Oasis on December 2nd, 2023.
- Charles City Singers Winter Conecert on December 3rd, 2023
- Story-Time with Santa at Prologue Books on December 3rd, 2023
- Brunch & Browse with Santa on December 9th, 2023
- Mrs. Claus Story Time at Santa House on December 16th, 2023
There are so many more things taking place and the Charles City Chamber of Commerce has put together a great calendar of all the special events. Make sure to check the Chamber’s calendar of events here, to catch the full schedule!
Whether you’re looking to shop, enjoy holiday traditions, or visit Santa, you’re bound to enjoy spending the holidays in the Christmas Spirit in Charles City, IA.
PIN It for Later
Oh I missed those candlies when I was there!
They were amazing! Especially knowing they are handmade! And they smelled delicious! I’m so mad I didn’t buy any!!
Walking around Charles City definitely got me in the Christmas spirit! I loved how everywhere was decorated so nicely. And seeing the rows and rows and rows of poinsettias was probably my favorite part.
You’re right! The entire town felt so festive!! I loved that also!!