December is here, bringing festive fun, live entertainment, outdoor adventures, and plenty of opportunities to shop local! Council Bluffs is filled with holiday events, seasonal experiences, and fun ways to make memories with friends and family. Check out these five things to do this December!
1. Tackle the Trails at the Hitchcock Experience Endurance Run
December 5–6 | Hitchcock Nature Center
Kick off December with an outdoor adventure at Hitchcock Nature Center! Watch runners take on half-marathon, 50-mile, 101K, and 100-mile challenges through the scenic Loess Hills. Trails and facilities will remain open to the public, so come cheer on the participants!
2. Laugh Along with Bert Kreischer: Permission to Party
December 6 | 8 PM | Mid-America Center
Get ready for a night of outrageous stories and nonstop laughs! Comedian Bert Kreischer brings his Permission to Party Tour to the Mid-America Center for an evening of unfiltered humor and entertainment.
3. Step Back in Time at the Historic General Dodge House
Breakfast With Santa | December 5
Start the season with breakfast, a reading of The Night Before Christmas, Christmas crafts, and photos with Santa.
A Day with the Dodges | December 6
Stroll through the festively decorated Dodge House with live music from Cantare Omaha, costumed characters, and the Dodges.
Guided Walking Tour | December 8
Step back in time and learn about General Grenville M. Dodge and the history of this iconic landmark.
Family Night at the Dodge House | December 10
Visit with Santa, make a Christmas craft, tour the historic home, and enjoy cookies and cocoa.
Christmas by Candlelight | December 12
Take a candlelit tour of the beautifully decorated Dodge House and enjoy refreshments in the Ballroom.
4. Celebrate the Season with Jim Brickman: A Christmas Celebration
December 11 | 7:30–9:30 PM | Arts Center at Iowa Western
Enjoy a magical evening of holiday music with best-selling pianist Jim Brickman. His annual Christmas tour brings together music, love, and family for a heartwarming celebration filled with festive favorites and seasonal cheer.
View Upcoming Shows at The Arts Center
5. Shop & Sip Local This Holiday Season
Finish your holiday shopping while supporting local businesses! From unique gifts and handmade goods to festive drinks and seasonal treats, these holiday shopping events offer something for everyone.
- Holiday Open House | December 4–6 | Rustic Door Boutique
- Callahan Promotions, Inc. Arts & Crafts Show | December 5 - 6 | Mid-America Center
- Mistletoe & Martinis | December 5 | 11 AM | Judge Richard Distillery
- Holiday Sip & Shop | December 11 | 4 PM | Walnut Community Center
- FMCB OFF-Season | December 13 | 12 PM | Omni Centre
Make the Most of December in Council Bluffs
Gather your friends and family and enjoy all the seasonal fun our community has to offer. Want even more festive fun? Check out our blog for all the winter and holiday events happening in Council Bluffs!
