November in Council Bluffs is all about crisp air, cozy vibes, and plenty of ways to make the season special. Whether you’re looking to shop handmade goods, indulge in culinary adventures, enjoy world-class performances, or simply soak up the festive spirit, the city is buzzing with experiences that bring people together. It’s the perfect time to gather with friends and family, try something new, and kick off the holiday season with memories you’ll carry well beyond the month.
1. Celebrate Creativity at Local Craft Fairs
This fall, Council Bluffs is overflowing with opportunities to shop local, support the community, and get a head start on holiday gift-giving. From bustling vendor fairs to creative showcases, these seasonal favorites bring together talented artisans, small businesses, and neighbors for a day filled with shopping, fun, and connection. Whether you’re searching for one-of-a-kind handmade treasures or simply looking to soak up a lively community atmosphere, these upcoming events are the perfect way to celebrate the season while giving back.
Mark your calendar for the 2025 Lewis Central Craft Fair on November 1 at 9 AM! This beloved community tradition features an incredible variety of handmade creations, from seasonal décor and unique gifts to beautiful works of art you won’t find anywhere else. As you shop, you’ll be supporting local artisans while helping fuel the creativity of the Lewis Central High School band program—a win-win for everyone!
Then, don’t miss the Annual College View Elementary Fall Fundraiser Vendor Fair on November 15 at 10 AM. Admission is free, and you’ll discover a wide range of vendors offering unique items perfect for gifting or treating yourself. Each vendor has donated a prize for the raffle, with tickets available for just $1 each or 6 for $5, and concessions will be on hand to keep you energized as you browse. Best of all, every purchase and donation helps support College View’s activities fund, making this event a fun-filled day that truly gives back.
2. Rock out at the Trans-Siberian Orchestra
This holiday season, Council Bluffs will come alive with the electrifying sounds and dazzling sights of the Trans-Siberian Orchestra as they return to the Mid-America Center on Thursday, November 13. Their production, The Ghosts of Christmas Eve: The Best of TSO & More, blends symphonic rock with breathtaking pyrotechnics, lasers, and heartwarming storytelling for an unforgettable experience. Fans can look forward to a 25th-anniversary salute to Beethoven’s Last Night, a return of the beloved signing line, and a chance to support The Salvation Army of Council Bluffs through ticket sales. To make the most of the night, plan a pre-show dinner at a local restaurant and even extend your stay to enjoy all that Council Bluffs has to offer. This isn’t just a concert—it’s a full holiday getaway waiting to be experienced. Click the button below to view our blog and learn more about this concert!
3. Ring in the Holidays at Winterfest
Kick off the holiday season on Friday, November 21, from 6 PM to 8 PM at Bayliss Park with Winterfest! Arrive early to enjoy the holiday lighting ceremony, which kicks off the evening’s festivities. This festive celebration is the perfect way to ring in the season, bringing the community together to enjoy the lights, holiday cheer, and the start of a magical time in Council Bluffs.
View our full blog about Winterfest at the button below to read all of the information about this fun event. There are activities for all ages that you don't want to miss!
Winterfest Returns at Bayliss Park
4. Experience the Magic of the Nutcracker
Step into the magic of the season with American Midwest Ballet’s The Nutcracker at the Hoff Family Arts & Culture Center on November 22 at 2 PM or 7:30 PM. From the sparkling costumes to the graceful choreography, this timeless production is filled with visual splendor and festive charm. Featuring AMB’s talented professional artists alongside a vibrant ensemble of student dancers, The Nutcracker is a fresh, lively performance that captures the wonder of the holidays and continues to delight audiences year after year.
5. Discover the Joy of Cooking
Discover the joy of cooking with hands-on classes at the Iowa Western Student Center, where you’ll create delicious dishes from scratch while learning tips and techniques straight from the pros. From kneading fresh dough to perfecting sweet and savory flavors, each class is designed to spark creativity in the kitchen and give you the confidence to try new recipes at home.
You’ll not only build practical skills but also enjoy the fun, relaxed atmosphere of cooking with others—plus, you’ll leave with tasty creations to share (if you don’t eat them first!). Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned home cook, it’s the perfect way to unleash your inner chef. Here are a few of the classes coming up this November:
- Learn to Cook - Fresh Penne Pasta: November 7 | 6 PM
- Baking the Classics - Bake the Perfect Pie: November 14 | 6 PM
- Garlic: Planting & Growing for Abundant Harvests: November 15 | 10 AM
- Cooking Authentic Polish Pierogi: November 21 | 6 PM
With so much happening this November, Council Bluffs is the place to be for seasonal fun, community spirit, and unforgettable experiences. From shopping local and sharpening your kitchen skills to being swept away by music and dance, each event offers its own way to celebrate the season. So bundle up, mark your calendar, and make the most of everything Council Bluffs has to offer—you won’t want to miss a moment!
