Holiday Activities Around Siouxland

Homestead Holidays at Adams Homestead and Nature Preserve

What it is: A seasonal lighting display and holiday event series at the Adams Homestead & Nature Preserve in North Sioux City. The site is lit up with festive Christmas lights and decorations, creating a cheerful walk-through experience for families and visitors. The event features seasonal ambiance, opportunities to enjoy hot coffee and hot chocolate at the visitors’ center, and musical performances in venues like the historic Stavenger Church, plus crafts in the old schoolhouse.

When & where: Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, through December 21, evenings from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. in North Sioux City, South Dakota.

Downtown Holiday Lights & Storefront Displays

What it is: A seasonal downtown experience featuring festive holiday lights and decorated storefronts throughout downtown Sioux City. Many local businesses are participating in a holiday storefront decorating competition, adding creativity and friendly competition to the area. Visitors can stroll downtown to enjoy the displays, take in the seasonal atmosphere, and support local shops and restaurants.

When & where: Ongoing through December 22 in downtown Sioux City. Community members can view the displays in person and vote for their favorite decorated storefronts online.

Winter Wonderland at Falls Park

What it is: Falls Park transforms into a festive spectacle during the holiday season with Winter Wonderland at The Falls. The park is illuminated by thousands of lights, creating a magical setting for a winter stroll or a scenic drive. Visitors can walk through the park, take in sweeping views from the five-story observation tower, or stay cozy in their cars and enjoy the synchronized holiday music broadcast on FM 97.7.

When & where: Nightly from November 21, 2025, through January 5, 2026, at Falls Park, Sioux City. There is no cost to visit.

Winter Wonderland provides a memorable holiday experience for families, friends, and anyone looking to embrace the season’s festive spirit.

North Middle School Carolers at the Library

What it is: A holiday performance by the North Middle School Christmas Carolers hosted by the Sioux City Public Library. This free and family-friendly event brings festive music to the downtown library, showcasing local young talent singing holiday favorites. A great way to get into the seasonal spirit with community cheer.

When & where: Thursday, December 18, 2025, at 11:25 a.m. at the Aalfs Downtown Library.

Plymouth County Historical Museum's Nativity Exhibit

What it is: A beautiful seasonal display featuring traditional and artistic Nativity scenes on the fourth floor of the Plymouth County Historical Museum. Visitors can enjoy the craftsmanship and history behind each piece, making it a perfect outing for families or anyone looking to embrace the holiday spirit.

When & where: Thursday, December 18, 2025, at the Plymouth County Historical Museum. The exhibit opened on Saturday, November 8, 2025, and will remain open through Epiphany, Tuesday, January 6, 2026. Museum hours are Tuesday through Sunday, 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Neighborhood Light Displays

Across Sioux City neighborhoods, light displays draw visitors nightly. Popular areas include Morningside’s Cherrywood Lane and Applewood Avenue, the Blessed Sacrament neighborhood, and Grandview Boulevard, all known for holiday lighting that’s free to enjoy by car or on foot.

Looking Ahead: New Year’s Celebration

Sioux Year’s Eve at Siouxland Center for Active Generations

On December 31, 2025, the Sioux Year’s Eve event runs all day at the Siouxland Center. Festivities include family-friendly entertainment like puppet shows, live music, a balloon drop, face painting, and fireworks at midnight — making it a standout holiday-to-New Year’s event in the community.

Enjoy these local holiday celebrations and traditions across Siouxland — from festive lights and seasonal parades to movies, family events, and New Year’s fun. They’re great ways to make the most of December with friends, family, and neighbors right here in the community!