Must-See Holiday Events in Dubuque
From sparkling light displays to festive performances, discover the magic of the holidays in Dubuque.
Bring the whole family and make merry with these must-see holiday events.
Winter Wonderland at Driftless Pizza - Nov. 14 through Jan. 4
This holiday season, Driftless Pizza Company transforms into Wonderland, a limited-time festive pop-up packed with over-the-top décor, twinkling lights, seasonal eats, and nostalgic cheer. From Santa’s workshop to a glittering winter escape, every corner is designed to delight. Enjoy holiday cocktails, exclusive menu items, festive desserts from Frosted N’ Filled Bakery, and plenty of photo-worthy moments. A new Dubuque tradition for all ages!
Five Flags Holiday Movie Screenings - Nov. 21, Dec. 12 & 21
Get into the holiday spirit with Five Flags Theater’s Holiday Movie Screenings in Dubuque! Enjoy three festive films in the historic theater: Planes, Trains and Automobiles on Friday, November 21 at 7:30 PM, The Holiday on Friday, December 12 at 7:30 PM, and Home Alone on Sunday, December 21 at 2 PM. Grab refreshments, settle in, and experience these seasonal classics on the big screen. Tickets are just $5 for adults and $3 for kids under 18—a perfect holiday outing for friends and family!
Reflections in The Park - Nov. 23 through Jan. 1
Situated atop a limestone bluff are the sparkling lights of Reflections in the Park. Each year, thousands drive through this iconic Dubuque event to take in the lighted displays that wind through Louis Murphy Park. Hop in your car, tune your radio to the provided holiday station, and make this a #WhereIowaStarted tradition. Open November 23 – January 1, 5 pm to 10 pm daily. Admission is $12 per vehicle and benefits Hillcrest Family Services.
CPKC Holiday Train - Nov. 24
The CPKC Holiday Train rolls into Dubuque on November 24 from 9:45–10:15 PM at the Hawthorne Street railway crossing. Enjoy live performances by Smash Mouth and JJ Wilde as the brightly decorated train spreads holiday cheer. The event supports local food banks—attendees are encouraged to bring monetary or heart-healthy food donations to help make a difference this season.
How the Grinch Stole Christmas - Nov. 28-30 & Dec. 5-7
Get into the holiday spirit with Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas at The Grand Opera House in Dubuque! Performances are Nov. 28–29 and Dec. 5–6 at 7:30 PM, and Nov. 30 and Dec. 7 at 2 PM. Follow the Grinch as he tries to steal Christmas from Whoville—and discovers the true meaning of the season.
Trolleys of Dubuque Christmas Light Tour - Nov. 29 & Dec. 3
See Dubuque sparkle on the Trolleys of Dubuque Christmas Light Tour —Saturday, November 29, and December 13 from 5–6:30 PM. Hop aboard for a festive ride through some of the city’s brightest displays, including Murphy Park, the Shady Oak subdivision, Grandview, and more. Tickets are $20 per person (cash), and groups up to 10 are welcome. Meet in front of The Mining Company at Kennedy Mall—reservations required, so be sure to call ahead!
Shop Small Saturday - Nov. 29
Celebrate Shop Small Saturday in Dubuque on November 29 by exploring the city’s one-of-a-kind local shops and boutiques. From handcrafted goods to vintage finds and holiday gifts you won’t see anywhere else, it’s the perfect day to support small businesses that make Dubuque shine. Stroll through charming neighborhoods, meet the makers, and find something special—right here where Iowa started.
A Very Electric Christmas - Nov. 29
Experience the magic of the season with Lightwire Theater’s A Very Electric Christmas at Five Flags Theater. Follow Max the bird on a heartwarming journey filled with glowing toy soldiers, caroling worms, and dancing poinsettias—all brought to life through stunning electroluminescent artistry. Set to classic holiday hits from Nat King Cole, Mariah Carey, and Tchaikovsky, this dazzling show is perfect for audiences of all ages.
Christmas on the Square - Nov. 29
Celebrate Christmas on the Square in Dubuque's Cable Car Square! Enjoy festive live music, delicious bites from local food trucks, and a special visit from Santa at 6 PM as he comes down the Fenelon Place Elevator. A perfect way to kick off the holiday season with family, friends, and community cheer!
Hotel Julien's Tree Lighting Ceremony - Dec. 3
Kick off the holiday season at Hotel Julien Dubuque’s Tree Lighting Ceremony on December 3 from 6–7:30 PM. Gather in the beautifully decorated lobby for cookies, hot chocolate, festive music, a visit from Santa, and the magical moment the tree lights up for the season. A cozy, family favorite tradition you won’t want to miss!
A Merry Millwork Market - Dec. 5 & 6
Happening Dec. 5th & 6th 2025, ‘A Merry Millwork Market’ is a completely unique outdoor Holiday shopping experience in Dubuque's Historic Millwork District! Entering its 7th year and continuing to grow, with over 30 handmade art & craft vendors, food, and hot beverages to keep you warm as you shop locally for holiday gift-giving. Located in the courtyard and under the tents on 10th Street — all in the spirit of celebration and building community.
Scuba Santa - Dec. 6 & 7
Make a splash this holiday season with Scuba Santa at the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium! Join the fun on Saturday, December 6, and Sunday, December 7, from 12–1 PM as Santa dives into the Gulf of Mexico exhibit. Snap festive photos and enjoy a unique holiday experience perfect for the whole family. Included with museum admission or membership.
Dubuque Symphony Orchestra - Dec. 6 & 7
Celebrate the season with the Dubuque Symphony Orchestra’s Holiday Concerts in the historic Five Flags Theater. Enjoy an enchanting lineup of holiday favorites featuring the Dubuque Chorale, Heartland Ballet, and special guest performers. Families can also join the Holiday Family Concert on Saturday, December 6 at 1 PM—a one-hour, kid-friendly performance filled with carols, Nutcracker classics, and photos with Santa.
The Nutcracker - Dec. 13-14 & 19-21
Step into the magic of the season as The Dubuque City Youth Ballet presents The Nutcracker, a cherished holiday performance that’s been delighting audiences for over 25 years. Under the direction of Marina O’Rourke with choreography by Megan MacLeod and music by Tchaikovsky, this classic tale brings Clara’s enchanting adventure to life — from her daring battle with the Mouse King to the sparkling Land of Sweets. With whirling snowflakes, waltzing flowers, and timeless music, The Nutcracker is a festive favorite perfect for audiences of all ages.
New Year's Eve Masquerade Ball - Dec. 31
Ring in the new year in style at Hotel Julien Dubuque’s enchanting Masquerade Ball. Enjoy exquisite appetizers, live music from DJ Obie, champagne toasts, and photo-worthy moments all night long. Dress to impress, don your finest mask, and dance your way into 2026 in true elegance. Tickets are $65.
Sinatra & Friends: The Classic Crooners - Dec. 31
Ring in the New Year with timeless style as Bryan Anthony and Hunter Fuerste’s American Vintage Orchestra bring the golden age of swing to life. Sinatra & Friends: The Classic Crooners celebrates the music of legendary voices like Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr., Nat King Cole, and Bobby Darin.
A veteran of the Glenn Miller, Tommy Dorsey, and Nelson Riddle Orchestras, Bryan Anthony delivers a smooth, nostalgic performance that honors the Great Gentlemen of Song while keeping their legacy alive for today’s audiences. Presented by the Dubuque Arts Council, this unforgettable New Year’s Eve show is the perfect way to toast to 2026 — with rhythm, romance, and a little Rat Pack charm.