– Treats, Carols, & Gifts Await at the Holiday Retail Open House & More –
(December 4, 2024 — Iowa City, IA) — Get ready for a day of festive fun and holiday shopping in Downtown Iowa City. This Saturday, December 7th, the Holiday Retail Open House invites you to explore local shops and enjoy a variety of special in-store experiences. From warm, spiced drinks to decadent seasonal treats, each participating retailer is transforming their space into a holiday party just for you. Shoppers can expect sparkling decorations, delightful surprises, and even complimentary gifts with purchase—all designed to make your holiday shopping experience merry and bright.
Whether you’re savoring a peppermint mocha, sampling gourmet snacks, or admiring charming holiday displays, each store offers its own unique take on the holiday spirit. It’s the perfect opportunity to browse for thoughtful gifts, reconnect with familiar faces, and support the local businesses that make Downtown Iowa City so special. The event creates an inviting, lively atmosphere that has become a cherished tradition for families and friends alike.
Adding to the holiday ambiance, Intersection, an a cappella group from the University of Iowa, will perform timeless carols from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., filling participating stores with joyful melodies. This live music adds an extra layer of enchantment to your shopping experience.
“The downtown holiday open house is one of our favorite events of the year,” shared Susan Felker, Owner of Prairie Kitchen Store. “It’s a great time to catch up with our regular customers, as well as meet new ones for the first time. Each year we have a lot of fun picking a customer gift – we’ve had mini whisks, mini spatulas, a mini cookie cutter, and this year it is a mini creamer in the shape of a cow. We love to surprise and delight!”
As you browse through Downtown’s unique shops, be sure to check out the 2024 Downtown Iowa City Holiday Gift Guide for inspiration. This curated collection of ideas features everything from cozy home decor to one-of-a-kind jewelry and gift sets, ensuring you’ll find something special for everyone on your list.
The Holiday Retail Open House is just the beginning—there’s always something to discover in the heart of Iowa City. With a full schedule of events, including local art showcases, family-friendly activities, and more holiday markets, downtown is the ultimate destination for seasonal fun, shopping, and community spirit. From unique shops to vibrant markets, there’s always something happening to make your holiday season extra special. Plan a day filled with holiday magic, and discover why downtown is the perfect place to find gifts, enjoy memorable experiences, and celebrate the season! We look forward to celebrating the season with you!
Downtown Holiday Pop-Up Market
Sponsored by GreenState Credit Union, the Downtown Holiday Pop-Up Market in the Ped Mall is open daily from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., featuring a rotating selection of local vendors through December 24th. This weekend, shop unique offerings from Beno’s Flowers and Gifts, Valerie’s French Cooking, and Made Community. See the full schedule here.
2024 Eastside Artists Annual Show & Sale
The Eastside Artists Show and Sale returns this weekend at the Masonic Building, 312 E College Street. A nearly 30-year tradition, this event is a must for holiday shoppers seeking high-quality fine art and crafts. Explore works including paintings, ceramics, textiles, and jewelry, created by 16 permanent members and several juried guest artists.
Arts & Crafts Bazaar at the Iowa City Public Library
On Saturday, December 7th, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., the ICPLFF Arts & Crafts Bazaar will showcase a variety of handcrafted items, from quilts to holiday ornaments. Proceeds from the event benefit the ICPL Friends Foundation, supporting the library’s collections and services.
DIY Gift Wrapping at ICPL
Now through December 31st, enjoy free drop-in DIY gift wrapping at the Iowa City Public Library’s Digital Media Lab during library hours. Supplies like wrapping paper, ribbons, and bows are provided—or bring your own! Wrap your gifts in peace and privacy, with a limit of five gifts per person.